Bucket Truck Operator

ArborScape Inc.; Vermont; 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

Company-provided PPE and apparel

Continued education support

Job advancement opportunities

Weekly paychecks

Job summary

ArborScape Inc. is seeking a full-time Bucket Truck Operator to join its Tree Work Crew in Vermont. The role involves operating a bucket truck for pruning and removals, climbing, rigging, and ground support while maintaining ANSI Z133 safety standards.

Candidates should have at least 2 years in tree care, a valid driver's license (CDL preferred), and strong teamwork and communication skills. Benefits include paid time off, holidays, health insurance assistance, and ongoing training opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in the tree care industry with bucket truck operation, climbing and ground tasks.
• Valid driver's license required; CDL strongly preferred.
• ANSI Z133 safety standards knowledge and arborist practices.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate an aerial lift to prune and remove trees near structures and lines.
• Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections on vehicles and equipment.
• Operate wood chippers, stump grinders, and other machinery safely.
• Set up work zones with traffic and pedestrian control.
• Use modern climbing and rigging techniques when bucket access is not feasible.

Skills

Bucket truck operation

Climbing

Ground tasks

Driver's license

Teamwork

Communication skills

Knot tying

Rigging

Physical stamina

Education

ISA Certified Arborist

TCIA certifications

Tools

Chainsaws

Aerial lifts

Wood chippers

Stump grinders

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