Tree Trimmer

Wright Tree Service•Cincinnati, OH

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 various tools, equipment, and techniques to perform basic tree maintenance while accounting for growth patterns, tree health, and appearance. Work takes place on the ground and aloft, including in proximity to energized power lines under the supervision of a qualified line clearance tree trimmer. Once qualification prerequisites are met, the employee may directly supervise non-qualified employees working near energized conductors. The role also includes applying herbicides and growth regulators, maintaining application records, handling brush and debris, setting up traffic controls, inspecting and maintaining vehicles and equipment, and following company and industry safety requirements. 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 work is physically demanding and is performed in indoor and outdoor conditions, including rugged terrain and exposure to weather, equipment, electrical 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, including written and verbal 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 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 role’s physical demands, including climbing, lifting, carrying, and entering and exiting vehicles and equipment numerous 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 maintain herbicide application certification or equivalent as required by Wright Tree Service and applicable local, state, and federal law.
Keep 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, and fell trees using climbing equipment, including powered trimmer lift trucks, safety belts, climbing lines, and ladders; also use hand saws, ground saws, pruners, and other applicable tools from the ground.
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, work near energized power lines; once qualified, may 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 job sites and 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 applicable 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 for proper working condition; perform routine maintenance on company vehicles, equipment, and tools; 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 for the duration of the event.
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 vehicles and equipment as assigned.
Drive a vehicle with an attached chipper or other trailing unit to, from, or within the work area, as applicable.