Arborist II - Full Time

BWM Biltmore Workforce Management; Asheville (NC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Biltmore Estate is seeking an Arborist 2 to support tree maintenance on the historic estate, using rope and harness climbing or aerial lifts. The role includes pruning, removals, rigging, and installing tree support and lightning protection systems, with emphasis on safety and guest-facing service.

The position requires two years of professional tree climbing, basic tree identification, and familiarity with ANSI Z133/A300 standards, plus a NC CDL if applicable.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• ISA Arborist certification or the ability to obtain within 1 year of hiring is desirable.
• Two years of professional tree climbing experience required.
• Must have basic tree identification skills.

Responsibilities

• Operates tools and equipment—chainsaws, loaders, and other arborist vehicles—safely.
• Climbs trees for pruning or removal using hooks/spikes as needed.
• Performs work safely with PPE and maintains equipment.
• Maintains tools and equipment; ensures proper storage at day’s end.

Skills

Team player

Guest service

Safety-focused

Education

High School diploma or GED

ISA Arborist certification (preferred)

TRAQ (desired)

Tools

Chainsaw

Chipper

Aerial lift

Rigging hardware

Job description

Job Description: The Arborist 2 plays a key role in tree maintenance on the Biltmore Estate, utilizing advanced rope and harness climbing techniques or operating from an aerial lift. This position is responsible for a range of tasks including pruning, removals, rigging, and installation of tree support systems and lightning protection systems. This position must demonstrate a commitment to excellence in workmanship and possess a deep understanding of technical matters related to proper tree care, particularly concerning the historic gardens and plantings on the Estate. Interacting with Biltmore guests and other staff in alignment with Biltmore's core values is essential. Additionally, the Arborist 2 provides general support to the Arborists crew and Horticulture team, leadership, company, and assists with special projects and initiatives as assigned.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Additional education, training, and /or certifications strongly preferred.
• A minimum of two (2) years of professional tree climbing experience.
• Must have basic tree identification skills.
• Proficiency in tree removal with ropes, knots, and rigging.
• Ability to be a team player in a quality focused, efficient group setting delivering world class internal/external guest service.
• Familiarity with ANSI Z133 and A300 standards.
• Proficiency with chain saw, chipper, skid steer, loader, aerial lift and other equipment.
• ISA Certified Arborist or the ability to obtain certification within one (1) year of hiring. ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) desired, but not required.
• CPR and First Aid certification or the ability to get certification with in two (2) months.
• Must have a NC Commercial Drivers license Class A or B.

Essential Job Duties

• Operates hand tools, chainsaws, tractors, loaders, grapples, winches, chippers, stump cutters, skid steers, and other arborists vehicles and equipment as directed in a safe and responsible manner.
• Climbs trees with and without climbing hooks/spikes in order to perform pruning or tree removal.
• Utilizes required personal protective equipment and performs all work safely.
• Maintains and keeps track of tools and equipment, ensuring that all equipment and keys are properly stored at day's end.
• Makes accident prevention and safety a primary focus of daily work.
• Assist in preparing the truck and materials needed for the day's work per the direction of the Crew Leader or Manager.
• Works with the Crew Leader to perform all aspects of the daily activity.
• Works outside during inclement weather and to be called on in emergency situations to include after hours, weekends, and/or holidays.
• Attends appropriate training and demonstrates commitment to improving professional and technical skills.
• Maintains a clean, uncluttered, and safe work environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand/walk for extended periods of time; must be able to kneel, stoop, bend, reach below and overhead.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
• Must be able to climb ladders, stairs, and scaffolding as needed.
• Ability to safely operate small equipment and machinery.
• Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather with fluctuations in temperature and conditions.

Biltmore is interested in people who strive for excellence; who are committed to working together, supporting each other, and sharing a sense of stewardship to protect this special place. Our employees shape and enrich extraordinary experiences for guests, using judgment and skills based on our Vanderbilt-inspired legacy of hospitality. We invite you to join our dedicated team. An offer of employment is conditional upon the result of a security background check, reference checks, and—for certain positions—a drug screen, a physical examination, credit report, and/or driving record report prior to the commencement of employment.