Tree Trimmer

Wright Tree Service•Indianapolis, IN

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 role uses equipment, tools, and techniques to perform basic tree maintenance while accounting for growth patterns and maintaining tree health and appearance. Work is performed both aloft and on the ground, including near hazardous equipment and, under direct supervision of a qualified line clearance tree trimmer, near energized power lines. After meeting qualification prerequisites, the employee may directly supervise non-qualified employees working near energized conductors. The position includes herbicide application and recordkeeping, equipment and vehicle inspections and routine maintenance, worksite traffic control, and cooperation with property owners, customers, and emergency personnel. 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. The role requires extensive travel, outdoor work in varied and often hazardous conditions, and the ability to work long hours, overtime, weekends, and holidays during emergencies. The employee must maintain regular and punctual attendance and follow applicable laws and company policies.

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, properly use insulated tools near energized parts, and distinguish exposed live parts from other parts of electrical equipment.
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.
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 listed physical demands, including climbing, lifting, carrying, and maneuvering equipment or materials.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent; 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.
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, powered trimmer lift trucks, safety belts, climbing lines, ladders, and applicable ground tools.
Work aloft to cut branches or trunk sections and drop or lower 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, near 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 company policies, procedures, on-the-job safety practices, approved work methods, and OSHA regulations; help educate less experienced employees on these requirements.
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.
Cooperate with property owners, customers, and emergency personnel when streets or driveways must be blocked.
Inspect vehicles and equipment and perform routine maintenance on company vehicles, equipment, and tools.
Report specialized vehicle maintenance or equipment needs to the General Foreperson.
During emergencies or natural disasters, remain on duty and travel outside the regular work location when required.
Support and participate in Wright’s safety and employee-ownership culture.
Comply with applicable laws, rules, regulations, company policies, and procedures.
Maintain regular and punctual attendance at work and meetings.
Drive and operate assigned vehicles and equipment.