The Village of Sussex is searching for a skilled Arborist to help lead our community forestry efforts. This position plays a critical role in shaping our community's tree care efforts, ensuring the long-term health, safety, and beauty of the public trees in all of our forested areas.
As Arborist, you will have the unique opportunity to develop policies, implement best practices, and leave a lasting impact on the village’s extensive tree canopy. This is a rare chance to take ownership of an evolving program and make a real difference in the quality of life for our community.
Sussex’s long-standing commitment to urban forestry has positioned us to take the next steps in building from this great asset. We are looking for a passionate and experienced Arborist to help lead the next phase of our urban forestry program.
In 2024, the Village Board adopted an Urban Forestry Management Plan, developed by Wachtel Tree Science funded in part by a DNR Urban Forestry Grant, which sets a clear path for the future of our public trees. We earned the Tree City USA designation in 2020, and in 2023, we proudly received our first Growth Award.
Sussex has made a significant investment in our urban canopy, with an intentionally diversified program including 87 different species. A 2025 GIS update will complete a full tree inventory. Additionally, 53% of our 3,000 tree records consist of trees with a 1”-6” DBH, reflecting the growth of our community and a diverse, healthy tree population for future generations.
Qualifications:
- A bachelor's degree in Urban Forestry, Forest Management, or a related field preferred (an associate's degree and significant on-the-job experience will be considered).
- A valid driver's license.
- Class B CDL with manual brake and airbrake endorsements, or ability to obtain within 6 months of employment.
- ISA Certified Arborist, or ability to maintain when certification parameters are met.
- Must live within 45 minutes of the Village of Sussex for on-call duty.
Salary and Benefits:
- Starting pay for this position is $26.56, with actual rate dependent on experience and qualifications.
- Excellent benefits package, including participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System, a deferred compensation match, a strong commitment to professional development, and a family friendly work environment.
Application Process:
Candidates should submit a completed employment application, resume, and letter of interest using the link below. The initial review of applications will take place on Friday, October 24, 2025. Position will be open until filled.
About Sussex:
The Village of Sussex, WI (population 12,162) is a growing suburb in Waukesha County located 19 miles northwest of downtown Milwaukee. Sussex offers an outstanding quality of life, embracing family-friendly living, a premier school district, quality parks, low crime rates, and economic vitality. The Village operates under a seven-member Village Board and prides itself on its strong financial position.
The Village is a family friendly workplace that emphasizes professional development and a high level of customer service. The organization has a dedicated and passionate staff who care about the community and the impact of their work. The 2024 equalized tax base was nearly $2.4 billion, with considerable growth underway, and continued growth expected for the next decade. One of the key opportunities in this role will be balancing community growth of the community while continuing to meet the high quality of life expectations of our residents.
The Village of Sussex is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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