Climber - Sylva, NC

Xylem Tree Experts•Sylva, NC

About The Position

The Climber climbs, prunes, and removes trees according to the Foreperson’s directives. The role also involves ground-based tree work, loading and unloading trucks, operating a brush chipper, inspecting assigned tools and equipment, and maintaining a safe and orderly work area. Climbers may perform storm work and travel out of town for storm restoration when needed. This is a full-time position based in Sylva, North Carolina, with medical, vision, and dental insurance and the option to enroll in a 401(k) retirement plan. Paid time off eligibility and accrual timelines vary by position and are explained during hiring.

Requirements

At least one year of previous professional experience as a climber in line clearance is required.
Demonstrate working knowledge of knots, ropes, and rigging devices used in tree trimming and removal.
Climb and descend trees using rope and a safety saddle.
Administer and implement emergency rescue techniques, including tree rescue and applicable first-aid techniques.
Be familiar with electrical hazards and appropriate operating procedures near electrical conductors, as well as aerial rescue techniques.
Work and maneuver at considerable heights in varying and adverse weather conditions.
Have physical strength and agility, good balance, good depth perception, and the ability to hear verbal instructions from a distance.
Be able to quickly leave a potential danger area.
Be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).
Pass a background check and drug screen as required for the job.
Meet I-9 work authorization requirements.

Nice To Haves

Driver’s license preferred but not required.
Prior experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries preferred.
Previous climbing experience preferred.
High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Responsibilities

Follow safe practices and rules and help enforce them.
Climb, prune, and remove trees according to the Foreperson’s directives.
Load and unload trucks with logs, brush, and debris; lift and feed brush into a brush chipper.
Perform ground work using hand saws, pole saws, pruners, hand pruners, loppers, and gas-powered chain saws.
Inspect assigned tools and equipment and ensure they are in proper working condition.
Protect employees and the public from hazards by enforcing safe job practices, keeping the work area clean and orderly, and maintaining frequent voice communication with coworkers.
Perform storm work as needed and travel out of town for storm restoration when needed.
Obtain and maintain first-aid certification and CPR.