Request for Qualifications - Part-Time Professional Arborist Services

Location:	Vermont
Posted:	Nov 5, 2025
Due:	Nov 17, 2025
Agency:	Town of Middlebury
Type of Government:	State & Local
Category:	99 - Miscellaneous C - Architect and Engineering Services - Construction Q - Medical Services R - Professional, Administrative and Management Support Services
Publication URL:	To access bid details, please log in.

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REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)

Part-Time Professional Arborist Services

Town of Middlebury, Vermont

Release Date: November 3, 2025

Submission Deadline: November 17, 2025, by 2:00 PM EST

I. Overview

The Town of Middlebury invites qualified Arborist professionals to submit Statements of

Qualifications (SOQs) to provide part-time arboricultural consulting and field services to manage

and maintain the Town’s public trees. This is a unique opportunity for a certified arborist

committed to ecological stewardship, responsive public service, and high standards of urban

forestry management.

II. Submission Instructions

All SOQs must be submitted electronically or by mail to:

Town of Middlebury

Attn: Department of Public Works

77 Main Street

Middlebury, Vermont 05753

Email: echerington@townofmiddlebury.org

Phone: (802) 388-4045

Late submissions will not be considered.

III. Contract Term and Time Commitment

• Type: Part-time, contract position

• Estimated Hours: 10–20 hours/month, variable by season and project needs

• Term: Two (2) years with the option to renew by mutual agreement

IV. Role Summary

The contracted Arborist will oversee the health, safety, and management of trees on public lands

including parks, cemeteries, and rights-of-way within Middlebury and East Middlebury. The

Arborist will serve as the Town’s lead expert for urban forest maintenance and planning,

ensuring all work complies with industry standards and municipal policies.

V. Scope of Services

A. Technical Duties

• Work directly with Tree Warden and DPW Director of Operations and Director of

Engineering.

• Conduct inspections of street and park trees; assess health and structural integrity.

• Perform or supervise pruning, removals, and other tree maintenance.

• Diagnose and treat pests, disease, and/ or structural issues.

• Recommend and implement best management practices.

• Maintain and update the Town’s tree inventory program.

• Perform appraisals for tree value in the event of removal or damage.

• Prepare reports, documentation, and updates as needed.

B. Project Management & Coordination

• Review development and public works plans for tree impacts.

• Collaborate with Tree, warden, town staff, state and regional forestry agencies, and

contractors.

• Advise on tree protection, planting, and landscaping during construction projects.

• Ensure contractor compliance with ANSI Z-133 and A300 standards.

• Support the Development Review Board through review and comment on applications.

• Inspect permitted construction activities and enforce tree protection measures.

• Provide emergency response as needed (e.g., storms, fallen trees).

VI. Minimum Qualifications

• ISA Certified Arborist (ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification preferred).

• Bachelor’s degree in Arboriculture, Urban Forestry, Land Management, or related field

(experience may be considered in lieu).

• At least three (3) years of professional arborist experience, including supervisory roles.

• Vermont Pesticide Applicator Certification or ability to obtain within one year.

• Valid Vermont driver’s license.

• In-depth knowledge of tree biology, plant ID, soil science, and integrated pest

management.

• Experience with ArcGIS (preferred) and ability to interpret site plans.

• Ability to use and explain professional arboricultural tools and equipment.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Demonstrated administrative skills, including reporting and budgeting.

• Commitment to safety, diversity, equity, and collaboration.

VII. Required Elements of Submission

Submissions must include the following:

1. Cover Letter – Include an overview of your approach, availability (including emergency

response), and relevant understanding of regional arboricultural needs.

2. Statement of Qualifications – Include all assigned personnel and their roles (if a firm is

applying).

3. Resumes – For all personnel involved.

4. Fee Schedule – Clearly outline hourly rates and any applicable service charges.

5. Relevant Experience – Describe past work aligned with the responsibilities described

above.

6. References – Five (5) total, including at least two (2) municipal clients.

7. Proof of Insurance Coverage:

o Commercial General Liability: $1M per occurrence / $2M aggregate

o Business Auto Liability: $1M per occurrence

o Workers’ Compensation Insurance

o Professional Liability: $1M per claim / $2M aggregate

VIII. Evaluation Criteria

SOQs will be reviewed by a screening committee and approved by the Selectboard based on:

Criterion

Weight

Experience and Qualifications 40%

Proposed Fees for Service 30%

Quality of Previous Work 15%

References and Reputation 15%

This is the opportunity summary page. It provides an overview of this opportunity and a preview of the attached documentation.

Request for Qualifications - Part-Time Professional Arborist Services

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