Tree Trimmer

Wright Tree Service•Lakeville, MN

2d•Onsite

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 equipment, tools, and techniques to perform basic tree maintenance while accounting for growth patterns and maintaining 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 position also involves applying herbicides and growth regulators, maintaining application records, supporting worksite safety and traffic control, inspecting and maintaining vehicles and equipment, and cooperating 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. Extensive travel is indicated. Work is outdoors on rugged terrain and may involve exposure to weather, electrical and mechanical hazards, heights, chemicals, noise, and other environmental conditions. The role requires physical activities including climbing, lifting, carrying, and frequent entry into and exit from vehicles and equipment.

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 parts of electrical equipment.
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, 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 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, 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 local, state, and federal law.
Keeping informed about new equipment and specifications, standards, practices, and operating procedures.

Responsibilities

Load vehicles and equipment with manageable-size limbs and logs that are not suited for wood chipping.
Trim, remove, or fell trees using climbing equipment, including a powered trimmer lift truck, safety belt, climbing line, and ladder.
Perform ground work using hand saws, ground saws, pruners, and other applicable tools.
Work aloft to cut branches or trunk sections and lower them to the ground with 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, 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 occurring at the job site.
Escalate situations to the General Foreperson when necessary and in a timely manner.
Feed brush and debris into the 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 and conduct 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 and regulations and maintain knowledge of and follow company policies and procedures.
Maintain regular and punctual attendance at work and meetings.
Drive and operate assigned vehicles and equipment.