Arborist Groundsperson

Frey Consulting Group; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 33,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays

Full-time, year-round with flexible 30

Free Planet Fitness membership and a $

Job summary

Frey Consulting Group in Pittsburgh, PA seeks an Experienced Arborist Ground Technician to provide essential ground support for climbers and aerial lift operators, and to safely manage rigging during pruning and removal operations.

Work with a crew leader to uphold peak safety standards, operate chainsaws, wood chippers, stump grinders, and other equipment, and help maintain clean, organized job sites while pursuing professional growth year-round.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of professional experience on a tree care crew.
• Strong knowledge of tree structure, weight distribution, and rigging physics.
• Ability to safely operate chainsaws and wood chippers in outdoor environments.
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record and ability to back trailers in tight spaces.
• Safety-first culture and team-oriented communication.
• Willingness to obtain CDL, ISA Tree Worker, or TCIA Ground Technician certification.

Responsibilities

• Provide vital ground support for climbers and aerial lift operators during complex removals and pruning operations.
• Manage ropes, advanced rigging equipment, and lowering devices safely to control heavy limb descent.
• Operate and maintain essential tree care equipment, including chainsaws, wood chippers, stump grinders, and mini skid steers.
• Establish and maintain safe work zones by anticipating overhead hazards and directing traffic.
• Process brush and wood efficiently while keeping jobsites clean, organized, and restored to high standards.
• Assist with preventative maintenance and daily tool inspections.

Skills

Rigging knowledge

Safety-first mindset

Ground support

Education

CDL certification

ISA Certified Tree Worker

TCIA Ground Technician certification

Tools

Chainsaws

Wood chippers

Stump grinders

Mini skid steers

Job description

This Experienced Arborist Ground Technician role goes far beyond general labor, requiring a deep understanding of tree structure and overhead operations to ensure a safe, efficient work environment. Working closely with climbers and aerial lift operators, the primary objective is to provide expert ground support, manage rigging systems, and mitigate hazards during complex pruning and removal operations. The ideal candidate will work closely with a crew leader to maintain peak safety standards and directly impact daily jobsite production.

Based in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area, this growing professional tree care and landscape construction organization prioritizes employee well-being, safety, and continuous improvement. Unlike companies that push for excessive hours and burnout, this employer offers stable year-round employment with winter months focused on proactive pruning and indoor renovations rather than unpredictable snow removal. It is an exceptional place to build a long-term career, offering a highly supportive culture, modern equipment, and clear pathways for professional development.

• $24.00 - $28.00 per hour, based on experience.
• Performance-based advancement and overtime opportunities.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays.
• Full-time, year-round employment with opportunities for flexible 30-to-40-hour workweeks to support work-life balance.
• Free Planet Fitness membership and a monthly wellness credit for health-focused activities like yoga or floating.
• Company-provided starter uniform package, PPE, and required safety equipment.
• Financial support for professional certifications and development (including CDL and Arborist credentials) paired with a three-year employment commitment policy.

Responsibilities

• Provide vital ground support for climbers and aerial lift operators during complex tree removals and pruning operations.
• Manage ropes, advanced rigging equipment, and lowering devices safely to control heavy limb descent.
• Operate and maintain essential tree care equipment, including chainsaws, wood chippers, stump grinders, and mini skid steers.
• Establish and maintain safe work zones by anticipating overhead hazards, directing traffic, and prioritizing crew safety.
• Process brush and wood efficiently while ensuring jobsites are clean, organized, and restored to high standards.
• Assist with preventative maintenance, basic equipment troubleshooting, and daily tool inspections.

Requirements

• Possess a minimum of 2 years of professional experience on a tree care crew, specifically supporting arborists during complex removals and pruning.
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of tree structure, weight distribution, and physics related to rigging systems and port-a-wraps.
• Exhibit the ability to safely operate compact equipment, chainsaws, and wood chippers in dynamic outdoor environments.
• Maintain a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record and the ability to safely maneuver and back trailers in tight or hilly residential environments.
• Showcase a strong commitment to a safety-first culture, respectful communication, and coachability.
• Hold or be willing to obtain a CDL, ISA Certified Tree Worker, or TCIA Ground Technician certification (highly preferred).