RESUME
Rachel Barker
Qualifications
Experience as a member of the Public Services management team in evaluating,
developing and implementing management plans and programs as well as overseeing
the day-to-day operations and administration for a department staff of over
400. Active involvement in sanitary landfill development, management and EPD
permitting and reporting. Serves as a conference speaker and workshop trainer
for tree-related topics as well as the development and implementation of
emergency storm response plans including the APWA annual conference. Has
demonstrated strong interpersonal and interaction skills with customers to
solve problems.
Work Experience
Deputy Director Public Services/Operations, City of Columbus, Georgia 2003-
present
Coordinate activities regarding the development and assessment of divisional
plans, which includes contract formulation and administration; provide for the
operational control of all divisions.
Essential Job functions:
Coordinate the interaction between the various divisions and departments to
ensure the timely completion of major projects
Develop contracts for engineering services involving waste management;
negotiate technical requirements, pricing and other aspects of contract
management, implementation, and final inspection
Analyze and develop major budgetary requirements for finances, equipment,
facilities, and personnel
Formulate proposals and presentations for new and revised programs in Public
Services
Supervisory responsibilities include: training in job skills; planning,
assigning and directing work; appraising performance; addressing complaints and
resolving problems
City Arborist/Chief Urban Forestry and Beautification, City of Columbus,
Georgia, 2001-2003
Supervisory responsibilities of managing a Division of eighty-five employees
include: interviewing, hiring, training, and disciplining employees; conducting
performance evaluations; planning, assigning and directing work; addressing
complaints and resolving problems; implementing risk management and safety
programs.
Administrative responsibilities include:
Managed the functions of the Urban Forestry and Beautification Division
Conducted plan reviews and enforced the city?s Tree Preservation and
Replacement Ordinance
Developed and coordinated training programs for the Urban Forestry and
Beautification program to ensure proper techniques and proper maintenance
specifications are being followed
Supervised departmental responsibility for vegetative management on all
rights-of-way
Developed and administered grants within the Division
Determined and implemented Division budget and goals
Developed specifications for contracts, proposals, and equipment
Created and delivered civic presentations to promote the Division?s goals and
accomplishments
Horticulturist/Groundskeeping Superintendent, City of Opelika, Alabama, 1991-
2001
Managed, supervised, and provided administration for all aspects of the
Groundskeeping Division
Developed specifications and managed line clearing operations for Opelika Light
and Power Department
Implemented ?green infrastructure? as a necessary component in planning,
zoning, subdivision, and commercial developments
Enforced the Landscape regulations
Education
Bachelor of Science in Landscape and Ornamental Horticulture, Auburn
University,
Auburn, Alabama, August 1989
Masters of Public Administration, Columbus State University
Columbus, Georgia, May 2006
Certifications
International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist
Professional Organizations and Affiliations
Alabama Urban Forestry Association, Past President 2001
Alabama Turfgrass Association member 1991- 2001
Board of Directors 1996-1998
American Public Works Association member 2003- present
Columbus Technical College
Advisory Board Horticulture 2003-present
Georgia Urban Forest Council member 2001-present
Keep Columbus Beautiful 2001- present
Keep Opelika Beautiful member 1996 - 2001
Board of Directors 1996-2000
Land trust of East Alabama
Board of Directors 2002 - 2005
Leadership Lee County Graduate, 1994
International Society of Arboriculture member 1993- present
Lee County Humane Society Board of Directors, 1992-1999
Opelika Chamber of Commerce member 1989- 2001
Society of Municipal Arborists member 2001- present
Board of Directors 2003- 2006
Trees Columbus, Inc.
City liaison 2001 - present
Honors and Activities
Presidents Award of Appreciation, Society of Municipal Arborists, 2006
Presidents Award, Georgia Urban Forest Council, 2003
National Urban Forestry ?Grassroots? Leadership Team, 2002
Presidents Award, Keep Opelika Beautiful, 2001
President, Pi Alpha XI - Nu Chapter, National Horticulture Honor Society,
1988-1989
Member, Outstanding College Students of America, 1989
Member, Auburn University Flower Judging Team, 1989
Ag Council Representative, Auburn University, 1987-1989
Member, Horticulture Forum, Auburn University Horticulture club 1985-1989
Merit Scholarship, Bedding Plant Industries, 1988
James Cooper Memorial Scholarship, 1988
L.M. Ware Scholarship, Garden Club of America Award, 1987
Outstanding Sophomore Award, Garden Lovers? Garden Club, 1986
Carl F. Frisby Award, 1985
Attachments
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