Tree Trimmer

Wright Tree Service•Lakeville, MN

3d•$35 - $36

About The Position

The Tree Trimmer is a qualified Line Clearance Tree Trimmer responsible for pruning and removing trees, limbs, and shrubs near power lines to reduce vegetation interference. The position uses a range of equipment, tools, and techniques to perform basic tree maintenance while considering growth patterns, tree health, and appearance. Work may take place on the ground or aloft and may involve working near energized power lines under the direct supervision of a qualified line clearance tree trimmer. After meeting qualification prerequisites, the employee may directly supervise non-qualified employees working near energized conductors. The role includes applying herbicides and growth regulators, maintaining application records, using traffic-control measures, and inspecting and maintaining vehicles, equipment, and tools. During emergencies or natural disasters, the employee may be required to remain on duty and travel outside the regular work location. The position requires extensive travel, outdoor work on rugged terrain, and the ability to work long hours and overtime, including weekends and holidays during emergencies. Hourly wage is $35.46–$36.31. The position is non-exempt.

Requirements

At least 3 months of experience working on tree-trimming or tree-clearing crews, or successful completion of applicable skills assessments.
Basic knowledge of trees, including identification, growth habits, and arboricultural techniques for trimming, pruning, repairing, maintaining, and removing trees near energized conductors.
Knowledge and understanding of ANSI Z133.1 (current version) and ANSI A300.
Ability to follow and coach employees on 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 equipment parts.
Ability to learn quickly and follow instructions accurately.
Ability to communicate professionally and represent Wright Tree Service.
Ability to comprehend, read, and write work instructions and safety information, both written and verbal.
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 respond to call-outs.
Knowledge of and training in tree and bucket rescue.
Ability to operate and service required tools and equipment.
Ability to work independently and as part of a group.
Valid First Aid and CPR cards, or ability to obtain them within 90 days of hire.
Ability to read, write, and speak English.
Ability to meet the position’s physical demands, including climbing, lifting, carrying, and maneuvering equipment and objects.

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.
Maintain herbicide application certification or equivalent as required by Wright Tree Service and applicable laws.
Keep informed about new equipment, specifications, standards, practices, and operating procedures.

Responsibilities

Load vehicles and equipment with manageable limbs and logs that are not suited for wood chipping.
Trim, remove, and fell trees using climbing equipment, lifts, safety belts, climbing lines, ladders, and ground tools.
Work aloft to cut branches or trunk sections and lower them to the ground using rigging lines.
Use ground tools to fell trees or spars and split them into manageable pieces.
Work near hazardous equipment and, under required supervision, near energized power lines; after meeting prerequisites, directly supervise non-qualified employees working near energized conductors.
Apply herbicides and growth regulators to brush and stumps and maintain application records.
Follow and help educate less experienced employees on company policies, procedures, safety practices, approved work methods, and OSHA regulations.
Repair minor property damage at job sites and promptly escalate situations requiring attention to the General Foreperson.
Feed brush and debris into a woodchipper.
Set up warning signs, barriers, and flags; relay hand signals; direct traffic; and use other traffic-control devices to protect employees and the public. Cooperate with property owners, customers, and emergency personnel when streets or driveways must be blocked.
Inspect vehicles and equipment, perform routine maintenance on company vehicles, equipment, and tools, and report specialized maintenance needs to the General Foreperson.
During emergencies or natural disasters, remain on duty and travel outside the regular work location for the duration of the event when required.
Support and participate in Wright’s safety and employee-ownership culture.
Comply with applicable laws and regulations and company policies and procedures.
Maintain regular, punctual attendance at work and meetings.
Drive and operate assigned vehicles and equipment.