Aerial Lift Trimmer/Climber -Buffalo, NY

Xylem Tree Experts; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Union representation

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Xylem Tree Experts is seeking an Aerial Lift Trimmer to perform trimming, pruning, and removal of trees using bucket trucks or related gear. The role emphasizes safety, efficient job setup, and debris cleanup in utility corridors.

Responsibilities include maintaining equipment, assisting crew, and performing storm restoration tasks as needed. A high school diploma is preferred, with prior vegetation management or related experience encouraged.

Qualifications

• Must be able to demonstrate knot tying and rigging knowledge.
• Must be able to identify tree species.
• Must be familiar with electrical hazards near conductors and aerial techniques.
• Must be able to work at considerable heights.
• Must obtain and maintain first-aid certification and CPR.

Responsibilities

• Follow safe practices and enforce safety rules.
• Prepare truck and materials for each day.
• Perform professional tree maintenance as directed.
• Clear and trim trees/brush from utility lines.
• Maintain tools and equipment.
• Assist other crew members as needed.
• Contribute to storm restoration work as required.

Skills

Knot tying & rigging

Tree species identification

Electrical hazard awareness

Working at heights

First aid & CPR certified

Emergency rescue techniques

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Storm restoration travel

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Tools

Bucket truck operation

Rigging devices

Job description

The Aerial Lift Trimmer is responsible for trimming, pruning, and removing trees with the aid of a bucket truck or other equipment or tools.

Essential Functions

• Always follow and help enforce safe practices and rules
• Assist in preparing truck and materials needed for each day at General Foreperson’s direction
• Perform professional tree maintenance activities as directed by General Foreperson
• Clear and trim trees and brush away from utility lines; remove branches and tree material
• Clean up and dispose of all debris
• Maintain and keep track of all tools and equipment used in daily operations
• Constantly observe and practice climbing and tree maintenance skills in a continued effort to improve your own professional skills
• Be ready and willing to assist other crew members in all aspects of daily activities
• Safeguard employees and public from hazards in and around the work area by enforcing safe job practices, keeping work area clean and orderly, and staying in frequent voice communication with co‑workers
• Perform duties for storm work as needed

Supervisory Responsibilities

Aerial Lift Trimmers have no direct reports.

Experience Requirements

Prior experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries preferred; previous aerial lift experience preferred

Education Requirements

High School diploma or education equivalent preferred

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Must be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of all knots, ropes and rigging devices used in tree trimming and removal operations.
• Must be able to identify tree species
• Must be familiar with electrical hazards and appropriate operating procedures when in proximity to electrical conductors and aerial techniques in the event of an emergency aloft
• Must be able to work and maneuver at considerable heights under varying and adverse weather conditions
• Must possess physical strength and agility, good balance, good depth perception and the ability to hear verbal instructions from a distance.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain first-aid certification and CPR
• Must be able to administer and implement emergency rescue techniques, including tree rescue and all applicable first aid techniques
• Must be able to quickly remove yourself from a potential danger area
• Must be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Must be able to travel out of town for storm restoration work when needed

Must meet I-9 requirements. This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Affirmative Action/EEO statement:

Xylem Tree Experts and Kendall Vegetation Services provide equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, obligations, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

XKIG is committed to fair and equitable hiring practices. We follow EEOC guidance and all applicable laws when conducting background checks, evaluating each candidate individually based on job-related factors. A criminal history does not automatically disqualify an applicant.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

XKIG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws, including the ADA. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at 877-418-2999.

Benefits Offered

This is a union-represented role, with pay and benefits (which may include healthcare and retirement plans) provided in accordance with the applicable labor agreement.

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Eligibility and accrual timelines vary by position with some roles gaining PTO immediately and others becoming eligible after a set period of employment. Details are provided during the hiring process and may vary for Union hires.

AI Usage Disclaimer

As part of our commitment to efficiency and innovation, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools during the recruiting and onboarding processes. These tools assist with tasks such as resume screening, interview scheduling, and communication. All decisions regarding hiring and employment are ultimately made by our human team. If you have questions or concerns about this process, please contact our HR department.