Arborist

Universal Orlando Resort; Orlando (FL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Universal Orlando Resort is seeking an Arborist II to operate bucket trucks and other heavy equipment for specialized tree maintenance, with a focus on palm care and pruning, following established rigging protocols and safety standards to ensure efficient operations.

This role requires climbing and rigging skills, ability to install supports, perform basic tree health evaluations, and complete Maximo Work Orders, with Tier 1–3 progression including CDL licenses and growing arboriculture

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• CDL-B or CDL-A License required.
• 6 months climbing experience.
• 6+ months arboriculture or 6+ months high-end landscaping experience.

Responsibilities

• Operate bucket trucks and heavy equipment to prune, move, install, and remove trees.
• Climb trees following UO guidelines and perform climbing knots.
• Perform rigging for pruning and removal and provide correct hand signals for equipment.
• Complete Maximo Work Orders.
• Install, maintain, and remove tree support systems and cabling.
• Follow 5S guidelines and perform housekeeping duties.
• Participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities per policy.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Climbing

Tree pruning

Rigging

Heavy equipment operation

Safety awareness

Education

High School Diploma or GED

CDL-B or CDL-A License

Tools

Maximo

Job description

Job Summary

The Arborist II is responsible for operating bucket trucks and heavy equipment to perform specialized tree maintenance, with an emphasis on palm care and pruning. This role involves executing tree pruning and removals in accordance with established rigging protocols. The Arborist II also evaluates basic tree health, implements corrective actions as needed, and upholds strict safety standards to ensure efficient and effective operations.

Major Responsibilities

• Operate all heavy equipment, being adept in the use of a bucket truck and high reach to prune, move, install, and remove trees. Being proficient in the operation and maintenance of all 2-cycle equipment i.e.: Chain saws, power pole saws, and back-pack or handheld blowers. Identify nutritional needs, infestations, and diseases while performing routine work. Sanitize equipment between trees.
• Climb trees for proper maintenance and removal, within UO climbing and rigging guidelines. Including the ability to perform specific climbing knots i.e.: Bowline hitch, half hitch, double half hitch, and slip knot.
• Perform rigging of trees for proper pruning and removal by applying current best practices. Provide correct hand signals for heavy equipment operation to ensure safe operation.
• Complete Maximo Work Orders.
• Install, maintain, and remove supporting systems including bracing, propping, guying, and cabling on trees and palms.
• Perform housekeeping tasks as related to vehicles, assigned housekeeping area(s), tools and equipment, tool and equipment storage, lockers, personal tool bag, and safety-related items; follows established departmental 5S guidelines.
• Understands and actively participates in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training and team member involvement activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Experience & Education

This job description covers three tiers associated with the Arborist II Job Title: Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3.

Tier 1

• Education: High School Diploma or GED preferred; CDL-B License or CDL-A License required.
• Experience: Basic Climbing Experience (6 months), 6+ months arboriculture experience or 6+ months performing high-end landscaping (resort/theme park).

Tier 2

• Education: High School Diploma or GED preferred; CDL-B License or CDL-A License required.
• Experience: Previous level and tier requirements plus 1+ year climbing; 2+ years arboriculture experience or horticulture degree or horticulture program certificate.

Tier 3

• Education: High School Diploma or GED preferred; CDL-B License or CDL-A License required.
• Experience: Previous level and tier requirements plus 4 years arboriculture experience, ISA certification, MOT card holder, 4 years bucket truck operation.

Your talent, skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.

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