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 Operations Coordinator

The Street Tree Care Operations Coordinator plays a key role in organizing and executing the Ecology Center’s street tree care efforts. This position is ideal for someone passionate about urban forestry, environmental justice, and community engagement. The Coordinator supports the planning and implementation of volunteer events, maintains essential tools and supplies, provides field support and basic tree assessments, all to ensure our street trees receive the care they need to thrive.

Street Tree Care Logistics

• Assist in organizing tree stewardship volunteer events, including scheduling and registration.
• Deliver tools, compost, mulch, water, and other supplies to event sites using electric cargo tricycle and dump truck.
• Set up and break down events with attention to safety and accessibility.
• Maintain, clean, and organize tree care tools and equipment.

Volunteer Engagement

• Recruit, train, and coordinate community volunteers for regular street tree care events and special projects
• Lead corporate volunteer groups of various sizes in street tree care activities, ensuring safety and an engaging experienc

Tree Care & Assessment

• Perform basic tree health assessments and report findings to the team.
• Support installation and maintenance of tree guards.
• Document tree care activity and volunteer participation.

Program Support

• Support activities related to the Coolest Block in the Lower East Side program. 
• Assist with managing the Stewardship Tool Lending Library.
• Support public engagement initiatives, workshops, and special events like the Fall Social.

CORE SKILLS AND EXPERIENCES

Required:

• Strong experience in urban tree care, at least 2 years of hands-on experience in urban forestry, environmental education, or related experience.
• Effectively collaborates with others within a team while also being capable of taking initiative and completing tasks on their own when needed
• Ability to work with and effectively communicate with a wide range of audiences including: volunteers, youth and adult participants, community partners, and the general public ability to perform physically demanding tasks such as squatting, kneeling, and standing for extended periods, comfortably handling 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)

Preferred:

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