Tree Trimmer

Wright Tree Service•Syracuse, NE

About The Position

The Tree Trimmer is a qualified Line Clearance Tree Trimmer who prunes and removes trees, limbs, and shrubs near power lines to reduce vegetation interference. The role uses 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, including in proximity to 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 position also involves applying herbicides and growth regulators and maintaining application records; setting up work-zone traffic controls; inspecting and maintaining vehicles, equipment, and tools; and supporting company safety practices and policies. 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. Extensive travel is indicated. The job is performed in both indoor and outdoor conditions, routinely outdoors on rugged terrain and exposed to weather, heights, electrical current, moving equipment, chemicals, noise, vibration, and other workplace hazards.

Requirements

At least 3 months of experience working on tree trimming or 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 standards.
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, properly use insulated tools near energized parts, and distinguish exposed live parts from other electrical equipment parts.
Ability to learn quickly and follow instructions accurately.
Ability to communicate with others and represent Wright Tree Service professionally.
Ability to comprehend, read, and write job instructions and safety information, and communicate verbally.
Ability to recognize poisonous plants and take appropriate precautions.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
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 all 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, repetitive motions, and entering and exiting vehicles and equipment multiple times per day.

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, maintained as required by Wright Tree Service and applicable local, state, and federal law.
Keeps informed about new equipment, specifications, standards, practices, and operating procedures.

Responsibilities

Load vehicles and equipment with manageable-size limbs and logs that are not suitable for wood chipping.
Trim, remove, or fell trees using climbing equipment, including a powered trimmer lift truck, safety belt, climbing line, and ladder; also perform ground work with hand saws, ground saws, pruners, and other applicable tools.
Work aloft to cut branches or trunk sections and lower or drop them to the ground using rigging lines.
Use appropriate ground tools to fell trees or spars and split them into manageable pieces.
Work around hazardous equipment and, under direct supervision of a qualified line clearance tree trimmer, in close proximity to energized power lines.
After meeting qualification 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 that occurs at the job site.
Escalate situations to the General Foreperson when necessary and in a timely manner.
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 around the work area.
Cooperate with property owners, customers, and emergency personnel when blocking streets or driveways.
Inspect vehicles and equipment to ensure proper working condition.
Perform routine maintenance on company vehicles, equipment, and tools, and report specialized maintenance or equipment needs to the General Foreperson.
During emergencies or natural disasters, remain on duty and travel outside the regular work location if required.
Support and participate in Wright’s safety and employee-ownership culture; comply with applicable laws and company policies and procedures.
Maintain regular and punctual attendance at work and meetings.
Drive and operate assigned vehicles and equipment.
Work overtime and respond to call-outs during emergencies, including holidays, weekends, and storm work.