Position:
Ground Operator
Status:
Full-Time Seasonal
Reports to:
Crew Leader
Compensation:
Based upon experience, starting at $25 per hour.
Position Objective:
Ground operators are an essential part of a professional tree care team. They are relied upon to help facilitate job preparation, deployment, execution, and clean-up. Ground operators are directed by crew leaders and assist climbers and other tree care professionals in the processes of tree removal, tree pruning, tree cabling, defensible space mitigation, as well as data collection for arboricultural reports and surveys.
Responsibilities & Duties:
- Communicate with climbers and crew leads in order to plan and execute projects.
- Ensure all necessary tools and equipment are brought to the work site.
- Unload and prepare materials and tools as needed.
- Return materials to the truck so that they can be properly stowed.
- Utilize rakes and leaf blowers to clean up wood, brush and debris.
- Stack and organize materials to maintain tidy and efficient job sites.
- Operate wood chippers to process wood, branches and brush.
- Load and unload trucks/trailers with wood, brush, and debris.
- Use of chainsaws, hand saws and poles saws from the ground.
- Occasional use of ladders during hand pruning and to access the top of trucks.
- Assist in raising/lowering limbs and equipment using ropes and rigging devices.
- Maintain frequent communication with workers aloft.
- Operate and service trucks, trailers and other equipment as assigned.
- Ensure vehicle/equipment cleanliness and report necessary repairs.
- Transport materials for delivery or disposal.
- Safeguard employees and the public from hazards in and around the work area.
- Perform traffic and pedestrian control and other safety tasks as necessary.
- Refuel all trucks before returning to the yard.
- Tidy vehicle interiors and properly stow all tools and equipment at the end of day.
- Track clocked hours accurately and as they are worked in the time-keeping app.
Qualifications & Skills:
Required:
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
- Must pass a company driving test and obtain a DMV medical card.
- Ability to work in challenging weather conditions.
- Excellent physical awareness, agility and balance.
- Ability to perform duties in uneven terrain.
- Strong physical stamina and ability to carry 50 lbs at a minimum.
- Willing to obtain and maintain first-aid certification.
- Willing to cultivate a growth mindset.
Desired:
- Interest in trees and arboriculture
- Experience using saws and/or ropes
- Experience operating/maintenancing heavy equipment
- Experience working outside
What We Offer:
- Competitive hourly wage + seasonal performance bonus.
- PTO, paid holidays, and retirement plan eligibility after one year.
- Phone and seasonal gear stipends + company-issued PPE.
- Paid training, certification opportunities, and career advancement.
Our Culture:
We value teamwork, continuous improvement, accountability, and safety. Climbers play a vital role in upholding our mission to provide solutions-oriented tree care that benefits our employees, clients, and the community.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- On-the-job training
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Safety equipment provided
Work Location: In person
