Foreman - Crew Leader Arborist

Lewis Tree Service; Wayland (MI); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in vegetation management seeks passionate individuals to join their team. This role involves tree trimming, removal, and ensuring safety practices while working outdoors. Ideal candidates will have experience in climbing and operating equipment, along with strong communication skills to lead a crew effectively. The company offers specialized training, health benefits, and a supportive work environment focused on employee growth. If you love the outdoors and are eager to develop your leadership skills, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Specialized Paid Training

Health Insurance Plans

Paid Time Off

Employee Stock Ownership Plan

Retirement & Savings Plans

Employee Assistance Program

Qualifications

• 2+ years experience as a Trimmer/Climber around utility lines.
• Knowledge of arboriculture techniques and tree growth habits.

Responsibilities

• Interpret tree trimming and removal orders from supervisors.
• Plan daily work for crew, considering safety and equipment.
• Safeguard the public and enforce safety practices on the job.

Skills

Tree Identification

Climbing Skills

Communication Skills

PPE Knowledge

Physical Labor

Education

High School Diploma

CDL or Valid Driver's License

Tools

Chainsaws

Aerial Lifts

Hand Tools

Job description

You have a passion for tree work and growing your leadership skills. We want to help grow that passion with career opportunities, supportive leadership, and a dedication to safety.

We’re the second-largest vegetation management company in North America… and always growing. But really, we’re in the people success business; we just happen to trim trees.

Who you are…

• Open-Minded: open to new ideas, willing to listen and observe, humble
• Love the Outdoors: enjoys varying environments/weather, not afraid to get dirty, adventurous
• Self-Motivated: driven, strong work ethic, willing to “do what it takes”
• Adaptable: can think on your feet, nimble, flexible
• Collaborative: strong people skills, able to give and receive constructive feedback, willing to speak up

What you’ll do:

1. Interpret tree trimming, removal, and spraying orders initiated by the General Foreman or customer representative.
2. Plan and layout daily work for your crew, considering time required, clean-up, equipment, weather, and customer permissions.
3. Perform a Pre-Job Hazard Survey at each site with all crew members and assign work tasks based on individual knowledge, skills, and abilities.
4. Perform line clearing and tree trimming duties for Lewis Tree Service’s utility customers, including pruning treetops and limbs, trimming or removing at-risk/damaged trees, and removing broken limbs from wires, roofs, etc.
5. Climb trees and operate a bucket for trimming and removals near power lines.
6. Prepare, operate, and maintain all tools and equipment, including hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts.
7. Remove limbs and brush, clean up, and dispose of debris.
8. Mix and apply spray chemicals, preserving desirable vegetation.
9. Safeguard employees and the public from hazards and enforce safety practices on the job.

What you’ll need:

• Two or more years of experience as a Trimmer/Climber working around utility lines.
• Ability to lead people, including strong communication skills.
• Knowledge of trees, including identification, growth habits, and arboriculture techniques applicable to working near energized conductors.
• Experience in tree climbing, knot tying, and PPE.
• Understanding of drawings and symbols related to lines, voltage, and equipment.
• Ability to perform physical labor, including lifting at least 50 lbs.
• Capable of operating two-handed equipment and enduring extreme climate conditions.
• Willing to obtain specialized training and certifications, such as local, state, and federal licenses, First Aid, and CPR.
• Preferred: Valid Driver's License or CDL.

We offer…

• Specialized paid training & certifications
• Health insurance plans
• Paid time off
• Employee stock ownership plan
• Retirement & savings plans
• Employee assistance program

Lewis Tree Service is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to providing equal opportunity for all applicants and employees. We prohibit unlawful discrimination or harassment based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, age (40+), religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, citizenship, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Our practices comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws.