Tree Trimmer

Wright Tree Service•Saint Paul, MN

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 a variety 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, including 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 position also includes applying herbicides and growth regulators, maintaining application records, supporting worksite safety and traffic control, inspecting and maintaining vehicles and equipment, and communicating job-site concerns to the General Foreperson. 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.

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.
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 electrical equipment parts.
Ability to learn quickly and follow instructions accurately.
Ability to communicate with others and represent Wright Tree Service professionally.
Ability to understand, read, and write written and verbal job instructions and safety information.
Ability to recognize poisonous plants and take appropriate safeguards.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment.
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 physical demands described, including climbing, lifting, carrying, and maneuvering objects.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent.
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.
Keeps informed about new equipment, specifications, standards, practices, and operating procedures.

Responsibilities

Load vehicles and equipment with manageable limbs and logs that are not suitable for wood chipping.
Trim, remove, or fell trees using climbing equipment, lift trucks, safety belts, climbing lines, ladders, and ground-based tools.
Work aloft to cut branches or trunk sections and lower them to the ground using rigging lines.
Use appropriate ground tools to fell trees or spars and divide them into manageable pieces.
Work around hazardous equipment and, under direct supervision, 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 company policies, procedures, safety practices, approved work methods, and OSHA regulations, and help educate less experienced employees.
Repair minor property damage occurring at the job site and escalate situations to the General Foreperson promptly when necessary.
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 blocking streets or driveways.
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 as required.
Support and participate in Wright's safety and employee-ownership culture and 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.