The Lower East Side Ecology Center has pioneered community-based models in urban sustainability since 1987. We provide unique e-waste and composting services, environmental stewardship opportunities, and educational programming to all New Yorkers to create an equitable, resilient, and sustainable city. 

THE POSITION: Street Tree Care Manager

The Ecology Center seeks a Street Tree Care Manager who is deeply motivated to inspire environmental stewardship and volunteerism among people of all ages, backgrounds, and skills. The Street Tree Care Manager leads the Ecology Center’s street tree stewardship program, overseeing program design, volunteer engagement, event coordination, community partnerships, and staff supervision. This role plays a key part in expanding the organization’s tree care efforts, improving tree health, and fostering community stewardship of local green spaces.

Program Management & Oversight

• Design, manage, and evaluate all aspects of the street tree care program.
• Develop annual street tree management plans to ensure the greatest impact 
• Coordinate pre-event and post-event logistics of tree care volunteer events, including scheduling, registration, and on-site coordination.
• Oversee the Coolest Block in the Lower East Side community competition.
• Oversee the Stewardship Tool Lending Library.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and best practices for tree care.
• Provide in-person support at street tree care volunteer events and workshops.

Staff Supervision

• Supervise the Tree Care Education Coordinator and Tree Care Operations Coordinator through mentorship, task assignment, check-ins, and performance evaluations.
• Provide training and support to ensure high-quality program delivery.

Community Outreach and Collaboration

• Serve as liaison between the LES Ecology Center, community groups, and city agencies.
• Support public engagement initiatives, workshops, and special events like the Fall Social.

Administrative & Development Support

• Track program metrics such as number of trees cared for, volunteer hours, and tree health assessments.
• Work with the Development Manager to identify funding opportunities, write grants, and report on outcomes.
• Manage program budget, contracts, and purchasing of program materials.
• Oversee inventory and care of tools and materials.

CORE SKILLS AND EXPERIENCES

Required:

• Expertise in urban street tree care. We expect 3-5 years of experience in urban forestry, environmental education, or related experience.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and engage staff and diverse groups of volunteers
• Excellent attention to detail when it comes to organizing volunteer event logistics
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks such as squatting, kneeling, and standing for extended periods, comfortably handle items weighing up to 50 lbs, and work outdoors in various weather conditions
• Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion
• Flexibility to work on weekends and evenings (varies based on the season, but could range from 1-3 weekend days/month)
• Comfortable with Mac OS, Microsoft Office, and Google Drive apps
• A valid driver’s license is required and willingness to drive on NYC streets.
• Willingness to learn how to operate a cargo bike on NYC streets (training will be provided)
• Familiarity with grant writing, budgeting, and program evaluation.

Preferred:

• ISA Arborist certification
• Bilingual skills, especially in Spanish, Cantonese, or Mandarin
• Familiarity of the Lower East Side and Lower Manhattan communities