Climber - Salem, VA

Xylem Tree Experts; Rocky Mount (VA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401K

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Xylem Tree Experts is looking for a skilled climber to join our field team. You will climb, prune, and remove trees according to Foreperson’s directives, load and unload truck logs, and use hand saws and gas-powered chainsaws—all while adhering to strict safety practices and company policies.

The role requires knowledge of knots, ropes, and rigging, the ability to work at heights in varying weather, and prompt response to storm restoration needs.

Qualifications

• Must know knots, ropes, and rigging devices used in tree trimming and removal operations.
• Ability to climb and descend trees using rope and safety saddle.
• Able to administer emergency rescue techniques and basic first aid.

Responsibilities

• Climb, prune, and remove trees according to Foreperson’s directives.
• Load and unload trucks with logs, brush, and debris; feed brush into chipper.
• Work from the ground with hand saws, pole saws, pruners, loppers, and gas-powered chainsaws.
• Inspect and ensure proper working condition of all tools and equipment.
• Safeguard employees and the public from hazards in the work area following safe practices.
• Perform duties for storm work as needed.

Skills

Rope knots & rigging

Tree climbing

Safety protocols

First aid & CPR

Storm restoration

Communication

Physical stamina

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Job description

The Climber is responsible for climbing, pruning, and removing trees.

Essential Functions

• Always follow and help enforce safe practices and rules
• Climb, prune, and remove trees according to Foreperson’s directives
• Load and unload trucks with logs, brush, and debris; lifts and feeds brush into brush chipper.
• Work from the ground using hand saws, pole saws, pruners, hand pruners, loppers, and gas-powered chain saws
• Inspect and ensure proper working condition of all assigned tools and equipment
• Safeguard employees and public from hazards in and around the work area by enforcing safe job practices, keeping work area clean and orderly, and staying in frequent voice communication with co-workers
• Perform duties for storm work as needed

Supervisory Responsibilities

Climbers have no direct reports.

Experience Requirements

Prior experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries preferred; previous climbing experience is preferred

Education Requirements

High School diploma or education equivalent preferred

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Must be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of all knots, ropes, and rigging devices used in tree trimming and removal operations
• Must be able to climb and descend trees using rope and safety saddle
• Must be able to administer and implement emergency rescue techniques, including tree rescue and all applicable first aid techniques
• Must be familiar with electrical hazards and appropriate operating procedure when in proximity to electrical conductors and aerial rescue techniques in the event of an emergency aloft
• Must be able to work and maneuver at considerable heights under varying and adverse weather conditions
• Must possess physical strength and agility, good balance, good depth perception and the ability to hear verbal instructions from a distance.
• Must be able to quickly remove yourself from a potential danger area
• Must be able to obtain and maintain first-aid certification and CPR
• Must be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Must be able to travel out of town for storm restoration work when needed

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

This is a safety sensitive position that requires employee to be able to pass a background check and drug screen as required for this job.

Work Authorization Requirements

Must meet I-9 requirements. This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Affirmative Action/EEO statement:

XKIG provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, obligations, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

XKIG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws, including the ADA. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at 877-418-2999 or 252-403-0552.

Benefits Offered

• This is a full-time position that offers health insurance benefits for medical, vision, and dental, as well as the option for enrollment in a 401K.

Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Eligibility and accrual timelines vary by position with some roles gaining PTO immediately and others becoming eligible after a set period of employment. Details are provided during the hiring process and may vary for Union hires.

AI Usage Disclaimer

As part of our commitment to efficiency and innovation, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools during the recruiting and onboarding processes. These tools assist with tasks such as resume screening, interview scheduling, and communication. All decisions regarding hiring and employment are ultimately made by our human team. If you have questions or concerns about this process, please contact our HR department.