Apprentice Trimmer (IBEW) - Seattle, WA

Xylem Tree Experts; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare benefits

Retirement plans

Union representation

Job summary

Xylem Tree Experts is seeking an Aerial Lift Trimmer to trim, prune, and remove trees using bucket trucks or similar equipment. Prior aerial lift experience and a valid driver’s license are required. The role includes storm duties and a strong focus on safety and teamwork.

Candidates must pass a background check and drug screen; training in lifting and rigging is essential to safely protect workers and the public around electrical hazards.

Qualifications

• Prior experience in electric utility vegetation management preferred.
• Previous aerial lift experience preferred.
• High School diploma or education equivalent preferred.

Responsibilities

• Follow safe practices and enforce rules on-site.
• Prepare truck and materials daily under Foreperson guidance.
• Perform professional tree maintenance as directed by Foreperson.
• Clear and trim trees/brush near utility lines.
• Dispose of debris and keep work area clean.
• Maintain and track tools/equipment used daily.
• Improve climbing and tree maintenance skills continuously.
• Assist other crew members as needed.
• Ensure safety of crew and public; enforce safe practices.
• Perform storm-related duties as needed.

Skills

Aerial lift operation

Tree trimming & removal

Rigging & knot knowledge

Electrical hazard awareness

First aid & CPR certification

Team collaboration

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

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. Previous experience operating an aerial lift trimmer with a tree care company is required. Driver's license is required. Candidates will be dispatched by IBEW.

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

Position requires employee to be able to pass a background check and drug screen as required for this job.

Work Authorization Requirements

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.