Groundsperson

Riggs Tree Service.•Shawnee, OK

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Riggs Tree Service is hiring an experienced, safety-driven Groundperson for a utility and right-of-way tree crew. The Groundperson supports field operations by handling brush and debris, assisting with tree work, maintaining safe work areas, and helping the crew work efficiently. This role involves physically demanding outdoor work at fast-paced utility and ROW job sites, in all weather conditions, with early mornings and long days. The company describes the role as an opportunity to build a long-term career, with potential advancement into operator, climber, or leadership roles. Wage is negotiable based on experience; top pay is offered for highly skilled workers. The position requires familiarity with chainsaws and/or chippers, job-site safety, PPE, hazard recognition, and working as part of a crew. First Aid/CPR is preferred but not required. Riggs Tree Service offers a competitive benefits package that may include health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k), paid time off, and paid holidays. Through Payactiv, employees may also be able to access earned wages before payday.

Requirements

Hands-on experience with chainsaws and/or chippers is preferred; the employer is not seeking entry-level applicants.
Strong understanding of job-site safety and PPE requirements.
Ability to recognize hazards and think ahead in fast-moving environments.
Team-first mindset and ability to take direction and execute.
Ability to perform physically demanding work daily.

Nice To Haves

Utility, tree, construction, or other heavy outdoor work experience.
First Aid/CPR certification.

Responsibilities

Operate and support chainsaws and chippers in active job-site conditions.
Assist with tree felling, limbing, brush handling, and debris processing.
Set up and maintain traffic-control zones and safe work areas.
Establish and maintain drop zones for cutting operations.
Follow company safety standards, PPE requirements, and job briefings.
Identify tree hazards, environmental risks, and unsafe conditions.
Prevent struck-by and equipment-related incidents through safe positioning and awareness.
Maintain familiarity with SDS manuals and first-aid procedures.
Perform daily inspections and pre-trip checks.
Safely start, operate, and shut down chippers according to SOPs.
Handle basic equipment maintenance, including fluids, hoses, and components.
Follow lockout/tagout procedures.
Drag, stack, and feed brush safely and efficiently.
Communicate clearly with operators, climbers, and supervisors.
Support crew productivity and job-site flow.