<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Utility Arborist Line Patrol Specialist</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Location:</strong> Thomasville, GA (Territory Covers South Georgia)</p><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%"></div><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Position Summary</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal">Georgia Right of Way is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented <strong>Utility Arborist / Forester Line Patrol Specialist</strong> to support utility vegetation management activities throughout South Georgia. This position is responsible for conducting right-of-way (ROW) inspections, identifying vegetation maintenance needs, evaluating potential hazards to electrical infrastructure, and documenting field observations.</p><p class="MsoNormal">The ideal candidate will be comfortable working independently in a field environment, traversing uneven terrain, interacting with landowners when necessary, and utilizing GIS and computer-based systems to document findings.</p><p class="MsoNormal">This full-time position offers a four-day work week, competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to support the safe and reliable operation of utility infrastructure throughout South Georgia.</p><p class="MsoNormal">While residence within the South Georgia service territory is preferred, candidates who can reliably travel throughout the assigned territory to perform daily field responsibilities are encouraged to apply.</p><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%"></div><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Employment Information</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l10 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>Full-Time Position</strong></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l10 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>Schedule:</strong> 40 hours per week, four 10-hour workdays (Monday through Thursday)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l10 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>Location:</strong> Thomasville, GA (Territory Covers South Georgia)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l10 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><strong>Pay Range:</strong> $26.00 - $36.00 per hour, based on qualifications, certifications, and relevant experience</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l10 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Daily travel throughout the assigned service territory is required</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l10 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Overtime may be required as needed, including support of storm restoration and other operational requirements</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l10 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Benefits are available following successful completion of the first 90 days of employment</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Benefits</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Medical Insurance</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Dental Insurance</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Vision Insurance</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">100% Company-Paid Short-Term Disability Insurance</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">100% Company-Paid Long-Term Disability Insurance</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Paid Time Off (PTO) Accrual</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">401(k) Plan with 4% Company Match (Traditional and Roth options available)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l8 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in;">Six Paid Holidays Per Year</li></ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%"></div><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Required Qualifications</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">College Degree in Forestry or related field <strong>(preferred but not required)</strong></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Ability to be self-motivated and work independently</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">ISA Certified Arborist (or ability to obtain within 6 months)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (or ability to obtain within 6 months)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite and GIS applications</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Basic GIS understanding</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Ability to operate an ATV</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Ability to operate a pickup truck</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in;">Ability to walk utility rights-of-way on uneven terrain and in varying weather conditions</li></ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%"></div><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Essential Duties and Responsibilities</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Right-of-Way Measurement and Inspection</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Measure the Easement</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">Take three measurements per span unless terrain impairs visibility.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">Obtain one measurement at each pole and one measurement at mid-span.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in;">Measure and flag each side of riparian areas to ensure no vegetation is encroaching.</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Vegetation Identification and Management</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Identify Trees Within the Easement</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l15 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">Identify trees located within the easement that will reach a height greater than 15 feet at maturity.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l15 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">This may include yard trees and volunteer trees.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l15 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">Inspect fence lines, debris piles, hedgerows, and similar areas for volunteer trees that may be difficult to observe.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l15 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">Utilize Sprakil or Garlon where appropriate.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l15 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list .5in;">Notify landowners of any required yard tree removals.</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Identify Locations Requiring Reactive Trimming</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l11 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list .5in;">Fast-growing trees along the easement edge.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l11 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list .5in;">Trees that were not adequately trimmed during previous maintenance activities.</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Inspect for Vines</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l16 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in;">Inspect poles, guy wires, and related structures for vine growth.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l16 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list .5in;">Apply herbicide treatment where appropriate.</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Identify Fast-Growing Invasive Species</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l17 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list .5in;">Document locations of bamboo and kudzu.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l17 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list .5in;">For small infestations of kudzu, Sprakil may be used where appropriate.</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Inspect for Willow Species Requiring Attention</strong></p><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%"></div><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Danger Tree Assessment</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Identify and Document Danger Trees</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal">Danger trees include:</p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo9; tab-stops: list .5in;">Dead trees</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo9; tab-stops: list .5in;">Diseased trees</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo9; tab-stops: list .5in;">Dying trees</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo9; tab-stops: list .5in;">Leaning trees</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo9; tab-stops: list .5in;">Trees exhibiting structural defects such as cankers, hollow trunks, root damage, or other conditions that may threaten the electrical system</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>For All Identified Danger Trees</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l18 level1 lfo10; tab-stops: list .5in;">Measure and record tree height.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l18 level1 lfo10; tab-stops: list .5in;">Measure and record the distance from the nearest conductor.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l18 level1 lfo10; tab-stops: list .5in;">Document all findings.</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Immediate Hazards</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l7 level1 lfo11; tab-stops: list .5in;">Trees requiring immediate action must be reported promptly to the forester.</li></ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%"></div><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Utility Facility Inspection</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Inspect Customer Facilities and Utility Infrastructure</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal">Including:</p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l12 level1 lfo12; tab-stops: list .5in;">Poles</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l12 level1 lfo12; tab-stops: list .5in;">Guy wires</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l12 level1 lfo12; tab-stops: list .5in;">Guy anchors</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l12 level1 lfo12; tab-stops: list .5in;">Conductors</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l12 level1 lfo12; tab-stops: list .5in;">Other associated facilities</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Documentation and Reporting</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo13; tab-stops: list .5in;">Document any observed damage.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo13; tab-stops: list .5in;">Note buried guy anchors and buried lattice tower footers.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l14 level1 lfo13; tab-stops: list .5in;">Report any firearm-related damage to the forester immediately.</li></ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%"></div><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Encroachment Monitoring</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Inspect for Easement Encroachments</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal">Including:</p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo14; tab-stops: list .5in;">Grading activities within the easement</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo14; tab-stops: list .5in;">Buildings or structures located within the easement</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Structure Requirements</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l6 level1 lfo15; tab-stops: list .5in;">Structures larger than 12' x 12' x 12' should be documented.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l6 level1 lfo15; tab-stops: list .5in;">Notify landowners when a structure exceeds allowable easement restrictions and must be removed from the easement.</li></ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%"></div><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Quality Assurance Reviews</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Inspect Recently Completed Vegetation Management Work</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal">Including:</p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo16; tab-stops: list .5in;">Tree trimming</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo16; tab-stops: list .5in;">Mowing</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo16; tab-stops: list .5in;">Herbicide applications</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo16; tab-stops: list .5in;">Other maintenance activities</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Work Quality Assessment</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l9 level1 lfo17; tab-stops: list .5in;">Evaluate and document the quality of completed work.</li></ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%"></div><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Preferred Candidate Attributes</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo18; tab-stops: list .5in;">Strong observational and problem-solving skills</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo18; tab-stops: list .5in;">Ability to communicate professionally with landowners and customers</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo18; tab-stops: list .5in;">Strong organizational and documentation skills</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo18; tab-stops: list .5in;">Ability to work safely in remote field environments with minimal supervision</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo18; tab-stops: list .5in;">Commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and utility reliability</li></ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%"></div><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Physical Requirements</strong></p><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l13 level1 lfo19; tab-stops: list .5in;">Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions throughout the year</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l13 level1 lfo19; tab-stops: list .5in;">Ability to walk several miles per day on uneven, wooded, and remote terrain</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l13 level1 lfo19; tab-stops: list .5in;">Ability to safely enter and inspect utility rights-of-way and easements</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l13 level1 lfo19; tab-stops: list .5in;">Ability to operate company vehicles, ATVs, and field equipment</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l13 level1 lfo19; tab-stops: list .5in;">Ability to perform field inspections with limited supervision</li></ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;" align="center"><hr align="center" size="2" width="100%"></div><p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Equal Employment Opportunity</strong></p><p class="MsoNormal">Georgia Right of Way is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing a workplace that promotes professionalism, safety, respect, and opportunity for all employees.</p>