Now Hiring – Community Tree Stewards

JOB OPENING: Community Tree Stewards

The NJ Tree Foundation is seeking 2-3 Tree Stewards for its Community Tree Planting programs.

The Tree Stewards will assist the NJ Tree Foundation’s Program Directors with tasks related to our Community Tree Planting programs in each of our core cities: Camden, Trenton, and Newark. Applicants must reside in one of these cities, and will work in the city in which they live. We are seeking 2-3 Tree Stewards for each city for the Summer 2024 season (July-September). At the end of the season, there will be the possibility for extension into the Fall 2024 season. 

Job Duties and Responsibilities 

The Tree Stewards will be responsible for helping the NJ Tree Foundation to implement new tree planting projects, as well as helping ensure the success of prior projects. Tasks will vary depending on the needs of each program, but may include the following: 

  • Collecting data on prior tree planting projects (monitoring health of trees and checking for issues, measuring DBH, taking photos, etc.)
  • Canvassing for tree planting projects
  • Staking recently planted trees
  • Pruning and mulching young trees
  • Removing watering bags/stakes/deer guards from older trees
  • Assisting with tree plantings

As the tasks will take place at various locations throughout each city, applicants must be able to arrange transportation to each site. 

Required Skills and Experience 

The NJ Tree Foundation is seeking hard working and reliable individuals that enjoy working outside and would like to learn more about urban forestry. The applicant must work well with diverse populations, have an interest in tree planting, landscaping, and/or environmental work, and demonstrate a commitment to excellence in all they do. Prior experience with urban forestry and tree planting is a plus, but not required – all training will be provided. 

Pay and Hours 

The Tree Steward position will pay $17/hour. Hours will vary depending on the needs of the program as well as the Steward’s availability, and will typically be between 5-15 hours/week. Scheduling for this position is meant to be flexible, and will be based on the Tree Steward’s availability within a typical Monday-Friday workweek. Tree Stewards will work with the Program Director in each city to coordinate their individual schedule. 

How to Apply 

If you live in Camden or Trenton, please send a resume to Crystal Wessel via email at cwessel@njtreefoundation.org.  Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled. Questions and applications can be directed to Crystal at 856-287-4488. 

If you live in Newark, please send a resume to Elena Messina via email at emessina@njtreefoundation.org.  Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled. Questions and applications can be directed to Elena at 609-439-1755. 

More about the NJ Tree Foundation 

The NJ Tree Foundation is a state-wide non-profit organization dedicated to planting trees in New Jersey’s most urban communities, where the need is the greatest. Our Community Tree Planting programs are based in Camden, Newark, and Trenton. Prioritizing grassroots work, these programs empower residents to create positive changes in their own communities. Residents directly apply for and adopt trees, help organize events, and assist with the planting of each tree. For more information, please visit www.njtrees.org or www.facebook.com/NJTrees.