Crew Leader

Wright Tree Service•Indianapolis, IN

About The Position

The Crew Leader supports and coaches the crew to achieve production goals. The role identifies safety hazards, ensures compliance, and allocates and prioritizes job-site work as directed by the General Foreperson. The Crew Leader performs and coordinates tree trimming, removal, felling, and herbicide application work, often near energized power lines and hazardous equipment. The position also involves customer and property-owner coordination, job-site and traffic safety, crew production records, equipment and vehicle inspections and routine maintenance, and emergency response. Extensive travel is indicated. During emergencies or natural disasters, the employee may be required to remain on duty and travel outside the regular work location for the duration of the event.

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience working on tree-trimming or clearing crews, or successful completion of applicable skills assessments.
Excellent leadership skills and ability to handle stressful situations and multitask.
Knowledge of tree identification, growth habits, and arboricultural techniques for trimming, pruning, repairing, maintaining, and removing trees near energized conductors.
Strong customer-service and communication skills, including the ability to build rapport, listen, ask questions, and communicate effectively with the public, customers, and employees.
Knowledge of ANSI Z133.1 (current version) and ANSI A300 standards.
Ability to follow and teach company and industry safety requirements.
Knowledge of electrical circuits and ability to read and understand circuit maps.
Knowledge of OSHA electric-power generation, transmission, and distribution standards, including 29 CFR 1910.269; ability to determine nominal voltage, use insulated tools properly near energized parts, and distinguish exposed live parts from other electrical equipment parts.
Ability to learn quickly, follow instructions accurately, and communicate professionally on behalf of Wright Tree Service.
Ability to read, write, and understand written and verbal job instructions and information; English reading, writing, and speaking are indicated.
Ability to recognize poisonous plants and take appropriate precautions.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment.
Ability to work long hours and overtime during emergencies, including holidays, weekends, and storm work, and to be subject to call-out work.
Knowledge of and training in tree and bucket rescue.
Ability to operate and service required tools and equipment and work independently or as part of a group.
Valid First Aid and CPR cards, or ability to obtain them within 90 days of hire.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent is preferred but not required.
Ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver’s license or commercial driver’s license, depending on division and utility or contract requirements, and a DOT medical card in accordance with FMCSA regulations.
Ability to drive a vehicle with an attached chipper or other trailing unit to, from, or within the work area.
Herbicide application certification or equivalent as required by Wright Tree Service and applicable local, state, and federal law.
Keep informed about new equipment, specifications, standards, practices, and operating procedures.

Responsibilities

Follow and coach employees on company policies, procedures, safe work practices, approved methods, and OSHA requirements.
Assist with safety training and pre-job briefings, assign crew tasks, and coach employees according to company policies and customer requirements.
Apply herbicides to stumps and brush using applicable equipment, maintain application records, and obtain property-owner permission for tree work and herbicide application.
Coordinate access and work details with customers and property owners, including advising them of potential interruptions.
Trim, remove, and fell trees using climbing equipment and ground tools, including work near energized power lines and hazardous equipment.
Inspect work areas before starting to identify potential hazards; load manageable limbs and logs onto vehicles and equipment; and repair minor property damage caused at job sites.
Escalate situations to the General Foreperson in a timely manner and maintain positive customer and public relations.
Maintain crew production records and reports, including timesheets, work orders, work units, labor hours, crew assignments, and cost controls.
Obtain and interpret work maps; understand drawings and symbols for power lines, voltages, and line equipment; and assist the General Foreperson with assigning daily work orders.
Set up signs, barriers, flags, and traffic-control devices; relay hand signals and direct traffic to protect employees and the public; and cooperate with property owners, customers, and emergency personnel when access must be blocked.
Stage and clean up tools and equipment, maintain an orderly work area, inspect vehicles and equipment, and perform routine maintenance. Report specialized maintenance needs to the General Foreperson.
During emergencies or natural disasters, assist with coordinating the crew response and determine appropriate steps to eliminate hazards and trim or remove trees at the site.
Support Wright’s safety and employee-ownership culture; comply with applicable laws and company policies; and maintain regular, punctual attendance at work and meetings.
Drive and operate assigned vehicles and equipment.