Trees, Urban Forests

Position: Urban Forestry Consultant / Advisor (Part-Time Consultant)
Organization: Black Environmental Initiative (BEI)
Location: Greater Toronto Area (Hybrid – Site Visits Required)
Contract: Fixed-term consulting contract (approximately 3 months, with the possibility of extension, subject to funding)

About BEI

The Black Environmental Initiative (BEI) is a Black-led environmental organization working to engage Black and other equity-denied communities in environmental stewardship, climate resilience, and green career pathways.

Through our Beyond Provision Grounds initiative, we are building the long-term infrastructure needed to transform neighbourhoods dominated by concrete into healthier, greener communities where local residents can benefit from expanded tree canopy, native shrubs, increased biodiversity, and improved access to nature.

We are looking for an Urban Forestry Consultant who will help shape the technical excellence of our growing urban forestry program.

Position Overview

This is not a traditional consulting role.

We are looking for someone who enjoys working alongside communities and helping transform underused spaces into thriving urban forests. The successful candidate will serve as BEI's trusted technical advisor, helping guide site selection, planting design, ecological restoration, and long-term stewardship.

You will work closely with the Executive Director, staff, volunteers, community members, municipalities, and partner organizations to ensure that every planting project reflects sound ecological principles and contributes to healthier, more resilient neighbourhoods.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct site assessments for potential tree planting and naturalization projects.
• Develop planting visions and site-specific recommendations.
• Recommend appropriate native tree and shrub species based on site conditions.
• Assess soil conditions, drainage, sunlight, and other ecological considerations.
• Provide technical guidance to the BEI team.
• Advise on long-term maintenance and stewardship strategies.
• Participate in site visits with private property owners and planning meetings with BEI staff and partners.
• Develop practical tools, templates, and best practices that strengthen BEI's urban forestry program.
• Mentor staff and volunteers to build internal knowledge and technical capacity.

Qualifications

We welcome applicants from diverse professional backgrounds, including urban forestry, arboriculture, ecology, restoration ecology, landscape architecture, environmental planning, conservation, or related fields.

Ideal candidates will have:

• Experience in urban forestry, ecological restoration, or naturalization projects.
• Knowledge of native Ontario trees and shrubs.
• Experience conducting site assessments.
• A strong understanding of urban ecosystems and biodiversity.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain technical concepts to community audiences.
• Experience working collaboratively with community organizations, municipalities, or non-profit organizations is considered an asset.
• ISA Arborist certification, Registered Professional Forester designation, Landscape Architecture credentials, or equivalent experience are considered assets but are not required.

Preference will be given to candidates with experience working within Black communities in Toronto or who demonstrate a strong commitment to equitable community engagement.

Who You Are

You believe in BEI's mission of advancing Afro-environmentalism and recognize the important role that Black communities play in environmental stewardship and climate action.

You enjoy solving ecological challenges while working respectfully with community members, volunteers, and partners. You understand that technical excellence can strengthen community leadership, and you are excited to help build an innovative Black-led environmental organization.

Why Join BEI?

At BEI, we believe that everyone deserves access to healthy, biodiverse neighbourhoods.

By joining our team, you will help shape a growing movement that combines urban forestry, environmental justice, and community leadership. Your expertise will directly influence projects that expand tree canopy, restore biodiversity, improve climate resilience, and create healthier places for future generations.

This is an opportunity to apply your technical knowledge while working alongside passionate community members to create lasting environmental change across the Greater Toronto Area.

To Apply

Please submit:

• A résumé or CV.
• A brief cover letter describing your interest in the role and relevant experience.
• Examples of relevant urban forestry, restoration, or naturalization projects (if available).

Send your application to careers@beinitiative.com
Subject: Urban forestry advisor

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Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

The Black Environmental Initiative(BEI) encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We especially welcome candidates who are passionate about community-led environmental action and advancing environmental equity.