Arborist (NPS, Yosemite National Park)

Great Basin Institute, founded at the University of Nevada, Reno in 1998, is a mission-driven non-profit organization headquartered in the eastern foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. GBI has been a leader in the conservation stewardship field for over two decades, supporting thousands of individuals pursuing a career in public land management or seeking to advance their academic standing. In partnership with Yosemite National Park, GBI seeks to hire one Arborist.

The Arborist will work with the History, Architecture and Landscapes Branch at Yosemite National Park and focus on the following projects:

• Develop and carry out work plans to improve conditions and public safety in Historic Orchards as per park planning documents, supervisor, and NPS mentors.
• Conduct condition assessment of trees to determine health, vigor, and structure stability and risk.
• Create, use and maintain GIS and other relevant databases.
• Plant/transplant trees using proper techniques while considering current research and technological developments.
• Prune historic fruit trees in accordance with industry standards to meet desired objectives, using handsaw, pole saw, and other hand tools. Undertake related activities as needed to enhance orchard health.
• Install and maintain fencing, irrigation, and other infrastructure as per preservation planning.
• Advise Supervisor on project needs related to Orchard management and assist with development of funding proposals.
• Consolidate information on Yosemite’s orchards, developing information for use by managers and the public.
• Collaborate across teams as needed to plan projects, deliver outreach, and provide guidance for protection of resources.
• Lead volunteer groups and park teams to support orchard condition and appreciation.
• Participate in supplemental training, such as chainsaw training, as needed. The Arborist must maintain accountability for tools and equipment.

Location:

Yosemite National Park – Not just a great valley, but a shrine to human foresight, the strength of granite, the power of glaciers, the persistence of life, and the tranquility of the High Sierra. First protected in 1864, Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls, but within its nearly 1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, etc.

Project Timeline: Full time position for 65 weeks

Start Date: Early to mid July, 2026, dependent on DOI clearance.

Qualifications: 

The necessary skills needed to perform well in this position are as follows:

• BA in History, Environmental Sciences, Horticulture or a related field;
• Strong verbal and written communication abilities;
• Strong organizational skills;
• Demonstrated understanding and skill in tree care;
• Ability to climb ladders, operate hand tools, lift and carry up to 40 pounds;
• Database management experience;
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team;
• Good leadership and collaborative skills;
• Arborist Certification is desired, but not required;
• Experience with Historic Preservation and Cultural Resource Management desired, but not required;
• Valid Drivers license required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, use hands, stand, walk, bend, twist, lift and have specific vision abilities to include close and distance vision, and ability to adjust focus working with computer business equipment and other job/industry specific equipment. The noise level in the work environment is usually low.

The overall nature of the outdoor position is active, requiring physical effort and moderate exertion. There is exposure to environmental conditions such as rain/snow, heat, cold, and temperature changes.

NOTE:  This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the organization’s ongoing needs. All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment background check.

Disclaimer: Although the organization has attempted to accurately and thoroughly describe this position, GBI reserves the right to change the same, including to change, add to or subtract from the duties outlined, within the sole discretion of the organization, at any time, with or without advance notice.