Crew Leader/Tree Climber

WATTS TREE EXPERTS LLC; Frederick (MD); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Paid time off

Training & development

Career Advancement Opportunities

Job summary

WATTS TREE EXPERTS LLC in Frederick, Maryland is looking for an experienced Crew Leader/Tree Climber to lead tree care crews. Responsibilities include pruning, trimming, and managing crews while ensuring safety standards.

The ideal candidate has over 2 years of tree climbing experience, proven leadership skills, and excellent communication abilities. Join a company committed to professional growth and a positive working environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2+ years of professional tree climbing experience.
• Proven leadership experience in tree care crews.
• Strong work ethic and professionalism.

Responsibilities

• Climb trees to perform pruning, trimming and removals.
• Lead and manage tree care crews.
• Operate chainsaws and rigging equipment safely.
• Inspect trees for health and hazards.

Skills

Tree climbing

Leadership

Pruning techniques

Communication skills

Safety certifications

Tools

Chainsaws

Rigging equipment

Chippers

Job description

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health insurance
• Opportunity for advancement
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Training & development
• Vision insurance
• Competitive Compensation
• Great Work Environment
• Career Advancement Opportunities

Job Summary

Watts Tree Experts is seeking an experienced Crew Leader/Tree Climber to lead our tree care crews. This role requires hands‑on climbing experience, leadership ability, and strong communication skills. You will oversee daily operations, ensure safety standards are followed, and coordinate with both climbers and groundsmen to complete tree projects efficiently and professionally.

About Us

Watts Tree Experts is a locally owned and operated tree care company built on professionalism, safety, and teamwork. We focus on delivering high‑quality work while staying agile, efficient and customer‑focused. Our goal is simple: grow as a team and create real opportunities for our employees. We are committed to developing our people, strengthening leadership, and building a company that positively impacts the lives of our team members and their families.

At Watts Tree Experts, you’re not just joining a crew you’re building a career.

Responsibilities

• Climb trees to perform pruning, trimming and removals using industry standard techniques
• Lead and manage tree care crews, providing guidance, mentorship, and task delegation
• Operate chainsaws, rigging equipment, and other tree care machinery safely and efficiently
• Inspect trees for health, structural integrity, and hazards
• Plan and coordinate work sites to ensure efficiency and safety
• Train less experienced climbers and groundsmen
• Communicate effectively with clients regarding job progress and completion, answer questions, and build relationships

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2+ years of professional tree climbing experience
• Proven leadership experience in tree care crews
• Strong knowledge of pruning techniques, rigging, and removal procedures
• Skilled in operating chainsaws, chippers, and rigging equipment
• Strong work ethic, professionalism, team‑oriented attitude
• Ability to train, mentor and motivate crew members
• Safety certifications (ANSI, ISA arborist certifications) are a plus
• Must be comfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
• Strong communication skills