Crew Leader: Outdoor Tree Care + ESOP Growth

Lewis Services | 100% Employee-Owned; Corry (Erie County); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP

Paid training and industry credentials

Health, dental, vision & HSA options

401(k) +

Job summary

Lewis Services seeks an experienced Crew Leader to supervise utility vegetation management crews, ensure safe and efficient tree trimming, and coordinate with customers and utilities. You will train and guide crew members, enforce safety standards, and manage communications at job sites.

The role requires 3+ years of field leadership, ANSI/Z133 knowledge, and climbing lift skills. Expect frequent travel and a strong safety culture. ESOP benefits accompany competitive pay.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of experience in a tree crew or utility vegetation management.
• Knowledge of ANSI Z133 Safety Requirements and A300 Pruning Standards.
• Proficient in identifying poisonous plants.
• Basics of electrical circuits and interpreting circuit maps.
• Advanced rope ascent/descent and aerial lift operation skills.
• Crew Leader Certification or ability to complete it.
• Valid driver’s license; CDL as needed and medical certification.
• Training and licenses for safe use of herbicides.
• CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis).
• Strong leadership, communication and decision-making skills.
• Compliance with state/local/federal regulations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily tree crew operations and enforce safe, efficient work practices.
• Plan and assign tasks based on crew skills and job requirements.
• Monitor crew performance and manage training and promotions.
• Keep contact info current and report availability or fitness-for-duty concerns.
• Conduct field training and job briefings to ensure readiness.
• Enforce safety standards and report unsafe conditions immediately.
• Identify hazards and implement safeguards at job sites.
• Make weather- and safety-based work-slowdown decisions.
• Perform and direct pruning, removal and clearance near energized lines.
• Operate and supervise use of equipment including trucks, chippers and lifts.
• Interpret work orders, utility drawings and line voltage symbols.
• Maintain clean vehicles and organized job sites.
• Communicate with property owners for access and permissions.
• Promote positive relationships with customers and partners.
• Coordinate with emergency services when blocking streets.
• Maintain records on crew performance, incidents and equipment.
• Investigate incident reports and damage claims as assigned.
• Control crew costs through efficient use of resources.

Skills

Tree crew experience

Utility vegetation management

Leadership

Communication

Decision-making

Safety knowledge

CPR/First Aid awareness

Education

Crew Leader Certification

CPR/First Aid certified

CDL (as needed)

Tools

Aerial lift trucks

Chainsaws

Pole saws

Chippers

Ropes & climbing gear

Job description

Lewis Services seeks an experienced Crew Leader to supervise utility vegetation management crews, ensure safe and efficient tree trimming, and coordinate with customers and utilities. You will train and guide crew members, enforce safety standards, and manage communications at job sites.

The role requires 3+ years of field leadership, ANSI/Z133 knowledge, and climbing lift skills. Expect frequent travel and a strong safety culture. ESOP benefits accompany competitive pay.