Apply to the Seattle Urban Forestry Commission

Application Process

The Mayor's Office and City Council identify applicants through an open application process. We look for diverse voices that bring light to topics and issues influencing management of Seattle’s urban forest and can share professional and lived experiences from across various communities and perspectives. We seek applicants who bring a commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging; centering the voices of communities disproportionately burdened by the impacts of environmental injustices and climate change. 

The Urban Forestry Commission (UFC) is comprised of 13 positions, each having a specific set of required expertise or knowledge background.  The following is a list of current vacancies: 

  • Position #2 - Urban ecologist, preferably with expertise in the field of restoration ecology (Mayoral appointment).
  • Position #4 - Hydrologist or similar professional, preferably with expertise in the study of natural drainage, climate or air quality, or a combination thereof (Mayoral appointment).
  • Position #6 - Landscape architect, with certification from the International Society of Arboriculture (Mayoral appointment).
  • Position #7 - Representative of a non-profit or non-governmental organization, whose mission is to advocate for preservation or enhancement of urban forests, wildlife habitat or similar natural systems (Council appointment).
  • Position #8 - Representative of either the development community or a representative from a non-city utility, including developers, builders, architects, or realtors, with experience in projects developed under Leader in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) (Mayoral appointment).
  • Position #9 - Economist, financial analyst, Washington State licensed real estate broker, or any other similar professional, with expertise preferred in land use planning, environmental planning, or either residential or commercial development (elected by appointed commissioners).
  • Position #10 - Get Engaged member (Mayoral appointment). This position is occupied by a Get Engaged young adult, according to Chapter 3.51 of the Seattle Municipal Code, to encourage young adults to participate on City boards and commissions  
     


How to Apply 

Positions #2 - #9: The City of Seattle is now accepting applications! To apply, please submit your application, resume, and brief statement using this online form. Submission deadline is May 17th, 2026 at 11:59pm.
 
Position #10: The Get Engaged program is now accepting applications! To apply, complete this application form and send a resume & cover letter to Imani Bender at ibender@seattleymca.org. Submission deadline is is April 24th, 2026 at 11:59pm.

For questions or to request additional accommodations, please reach out to the Commission Contact: 
Hannah Pascual, Boards and Commissions Advisor 
Phone: (206) 684-7933 
Email: OSE_UFC_Liaison@seattle.gov

Urban Forestry Commission

Address: 700 5th Avenue, Suite 1868, Seattle, WA, 98104
Phone: (206) 684-3194
treesforseattle@seattle.gov

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The Urban Forestry Commission provides recommendations on and monitors implementation of plans, policies, and legislation related to the protection, management, and conservation of trees in Seattle.