Crew Leader: Outdoor Utility Vegetation Management

Lewis Services | 100% Employee-Owned; Longview (TX, AL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 74,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP

Paid training

Health, dental, vision & HSA

401(k)

PTO

EAP

Job summary

Lewis Services, a leading utility vegetation management company, is seeking a Crew Leader to oversee crews performing tree trimming and line clearance for utilities and clients. You will lead safety, training, and daily operations in a dynamic outdoor environment.

The role emphasizes strong leadership, adherence to ANSI/PRUNING standards, and effective communication with customers. Extensive travel may be required, with a focus on maintaining high-quality workmanship and safety.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of experience in a tree crew or utility vegetation management.
• Strong knowledge of ANSI Z133 Safety Requirements and A300 pruning standards.
• Proficiency in identifying poisonous plants.
• Proficiency in electrical circuit basics and interpreting circuit maps.
• Advanced tree ascent/descent skills using ropes and safety saddle; skilled in aerial lift operations.
• Crew Leader Technical Knowledge and Skills Certification or ability to complete.
• Valid driver’s license; CDL if required.
• Training and licenses for safe herbicide use.
• CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis).
• Strong leadership, effective communication, and decision-making skills.
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily tree crew operations and ensure safe, efficient work practices.
• Plan and assign tasks based on crew skills and job requirements.
• Monitor crew performance and provide training, promotion, and disciplinary actions as needed.
• Maintain up-to-date crew contact information and report availability or fitness-for-duty concerns.
• Conduct field training and pre-job briefings to ensure crew readiness.
• Enforce safety standards and report unsafe conditions immediately.
• Identify jobsite hazards and implement safeguards.
• Make decisions on work slowdown due to weather or safety concerns.
• Perform and direct tree trimming, removal, and clearance near energized lines using climbing or aerial lifts.
• Operate and oversee equipment like trucks, chippers, aerial lifts, and power saws.
• Interpret work orders and utility drawings related to line voltage and equipment.
• Maintain clean, organized vehicles and job sites.
• Communicate with property owners to obtain access and permissions.
• Promote positive relationships with customers and utility reps.

Skills

Tree crew experience

ANSI Z133 knowledge

A300 pruning standards

Poisonous plants ID

Electrical circuit basics

Circuit maps interpretation

Rope ascent/descent

Aerial lift operations

Crew leader certification

CDL / driver's license

Herbicide training

CPR & First Aid

Leadership

Communication

Decision making

Regulatory compliance

Tools

Aerial lift trucks

Chippers

Chainsaws

Pole saws

Handsaws

Blowers

Pruners

Ropes

Winches

Job description

Lewis Services, a leading utility vegetation management company, is seeking a Crew Leader to oversee crews performing tree trimming and line clearance for utilities and clients. You will lead safety, training, and daily operations in a dynamic outdoor environment.

The role emphasizes strong leadership, adherence to ANSI/PRUNING standards, and effective communication with customers. Extensive travel may be required, with a focus on maintaining high-quality workmanship and safety.