Crew Leader

Wright Tree Service•Lexington, NC

About The Position

The Crew Leader provides support and coaching to 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 oversees tree trimming, removal, and herbicide application work, including work near energized power lines and hazardous equipment. The position also coordinates job-site safety and traffic control, communicates with customers and property owners, maintains crew production records, and inspects and maintains vehicles, equipment, and tools. During emergencies or natural disasters, the Crew Leader may need to remain on duty and travel away from the regular work location for the duration of the event. Extensive travel is indicated (greater than 50%).

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience on tree-trimming or tree-clearing crews, or successful completion of applicable skills assessments.
Valid First Aid and CPR cards, or ability to obtain them within 90 days of hire.
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.
Excellent 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 represent Wright Tree Service professionally.
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.
Knowledge 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.
Ability to meet the stated physical demands, including climbing, lifting, carrying, and working outdoors on rugged terrain and around electrical, mechanical, chemical, and other hazards.

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 law.
Keep informed about new equipment, specifications, standards, practices, and operating procedures.
CDL is preferred.

Responsibilities

Coach crew members on company policies, procedures, safe work practices, approved methods, and OSHA requirements; assist with safety training, pre-job briefings, assignments, and coaching.
Use herbicide equipment to treat stumps and brush and maintain application records; obtain property-owner permission for tree work and herbicide use.
Coordinate access and job details with customers or property owners, including advising them of potential interruptions.
Inspect work areas for hazards and trim, remove, or fell trees using climbing equipment and ground tools, including near energized power lines.
Load manageable limbs and logs that are not suited for chipping and repair minor property damage caused at job sites.
Escalate issues to the General Foreperson promptly and maintain positive customer and public relations through effective work and appropriate crew conduct.
Maintain crew production records and reports, including timesheets, work orders, work units, labor hours, crew assignments, and cost control.
Obtain and interpret utility or General Foreperson maps and understand drawings and symbols for power lines, voltages, and line equipment; assist with assigning daily work orders.
Set up warning signs, barriers, flags, and other traffic-control devices; relay hand signals and direct traffic to protect employees and the public.
Coordinate with property owners, customers, and emergency personnel when streets or driveways 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.
During emergencies or natural disasters, help coordinate the crew’s response and determine appropriate steps to eliminate hazards and trim or remove trees.
Support Wright’s safety and employee-ownership culture, follow applicable laws and company policies, and maintain regular, punctual attendance.
Drive and operate assigned vehicles and equipment.
Work extended hours and overtime during emergencies, including weekends and holidays, and respond to call-outs as required.