Bucket Truck Operator

ArborScape; Taftsville (VT); On-site; USD 33,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid vacation and sick time

Paid holidays

Health insurance supplement benefit

Supplemental life and accident保险

Company-provided PPE and apparel

Continued education support

Job advancement opportunities

Weekly paychecks

Bonus pay for excellent customer serv.

Job summary

ArborScape Inc. in Vermont seeks a full-time Bucket Truck Operator to join its Tree Work Crew. You will safely operate an aerial bucket, prune and remove trees, and support ground crews with rigging and climbing as needed.

The role requires at least 2 years in tree care, a valid driver's license (CDL preferred), and a commitment to ANSI Z133 safety standards. Compensation ranges from $24 to $29 per hour with overtime and benefits.

Qualifications

• Min 2 years in tree care; bucket truck, climbing and ground tasks.
• Valid driver's license; CDL preferred.
• Commitment to ANSI Z133 safety standards.
• Ability to operate chainsaws, chippers and rigging gear.
• Teamwork, communication and safety focus.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate an aerial bucket truck for pruning/removals near structures.
• Conduct daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections.
• Operate wood chippers, stump grinders and related machinery.
• Set up work zones with traffic/pedestrian control.
• Prune/remove using climbing and rigging when needed.
• Use ropes, knots and arborist climbing gear.
• Assess risks and determine safe work methods.
• Make proper cuts per ANSI A300 standards.
• Support bucket and climbing operations as ground crew.
• Operate chainsaws and process wood from the ground.
• Drag/haul debris and feed the chipper; maintain site safety.

Skills

Bucket truck operation

Climbing

Ground tasks

Team communication

Rigging knots

ANSI Z133 safety

Tree identification

Education

CDL preferred

ISA Certified Arborist (preferred)

TCIA certifications (preferred)

Tools

Chainsaws

Aerial lifts

Chippers

Stump grinders

Rigging gear

Job description

ArborScape Inc., established in 2002, is a leading provider of landscape construction, tree work, trail building, and excavation services throughout Vermont and New Hampshire’s Upper Valley. With a reputation for highly personalized, quality land management and a small, dedicated teams, ArborScape Inc. delivers first-class professional services with a neighborly, personal approach. The company is seeking a full-time Bucket Truck Operator to join its professional Tree Work Crew. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, value teamwork, and are eager to develop their skills in the green industry. As a vital member of the crew, the Bucket Truck Operator will perform complex and hazardous tree work, balancing bucket operations, climbing, and ground support, all while upholding the highest safety and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate an aerial lift (bucket truck) to perform tree pruning and removals, often near structures and utility lines.
• Conduct daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections on vehicles and equipment, reporting any issues promptly.
• Operate wood chippers, stump grinders, and other related machinery efficiently and safely.
• Set up work zones, including traffic and pedestrian control, following all safety protocols.
• Perform tree pruning and removals using modern climbing and rigging techniques when bucket access is not feasible.
• Demonstrate proficiency with ropes, knots, and arborist-specific climbing gear.
• Assess trees for potential risks and hazards to determine the safest work methods.
• Make proper, clean cuts in accordance with ANSI A300 standards.
• Support both bucket and climbing operations as a key member of the ground crew.
• Operate chainsaws to process wood and fell trees from the ground.
• Drag and haul brush and wood, feeding material into the chipper.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe job site for the crew and the public throughout the workday.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in the tree care industry, with proficiency in bucket truck operation, climbing, and ground tasks.
• Valid driver's license required; Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is strongly preferred.
• ISA Certified Arborist, TCIA certifications, or similar credentials are a plus.
• Strong understanding of and commitment to ANSI Z133 safety standards for arboricultural operations.
• Expertise in tree identification, pruning techniques, and rigging.
• Proficient and safe operation of chainsaws and other industry equipment, including aerial lifts, chippers, and stump grinders.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Skills in knot tying and practical application in the field.
• Ability to hoist tools and equipment to tree trimmers and safely lower branches with ropes or rigging.
• Physically able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and perform demanding tasks, including lifting, climbing, and dragging heavy materials.
• Desire to continue skill development, advance education and maintain certifications.
• Punctual, detail-oriented, and committed to excellent customer service and work ethic.

Compensation

$24 - $29 per hour, depending on experience. Overtime opportunities available.

Benefits

• Paid vacation and sick time
• Paid holidays
• Health insurance supplement benefit
• Supplemental life and accident insurance
• Company-provided PPE and apparel
• Continued education support
• Job advancement opportunities
• Weekly paychecksBonus pay for excellent customer service and work ethic