Outdoor Tree Trimming Apprentice – Paid Training

Lewis Services | 100% Employee-Owned; Hamilton (MI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP

Paid training & certifications

Health, dental, vision & HSA options

401(k) +

Paid time off and Employee Assistance

Job summary

Lewis Services is hiring a Trimmer Trainee to support tree crews and vegetation management for utility partners. You’ll learn pruning, line clearance, tool operation, and safety procedures while traveling to multiple worksites and participating in training and certifications.

Ideal candidates bring 6+ months of tree crew experience, readiness to work at heights, and a CDL with medical certification. The role emphasizes safety, learning, and teamwork in outdoor environments.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 months of experience working on tree crews as a Groundperson or Driver.
• Willingness to work at heights and learn climbing/aerial lift techniques.
• Understanding basic tree identification and vegetation management practices.
• Trimmer Trainee Technical Knowledge and Skills Certification (or ability to complete).
• Valid driver’s license, CDL, and medical certification as required.
• CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis).
• Acquire and keep the required training and licenses for the safe and proper use of herbicides.
• Strong work ethic, team mindset, and commitment to learning safely.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable state, local, and federal regulations.

Responsibilities

• Assist with ground-level vegetation management around power lines (Tree pruning, vegetation removal, lifting logs, dragging brush, assisting climbers, hand up tools, using hand lines, etc.)
• Prune, remove branches, and lift logs, while climbing or using an aerial lift, under direct supervision (After proper training and demonstration of expertise).
• Support crews with site prep, equipment setup, and jobsite cleanup.
• Operate and maintain tools like chainsaws, chippers, sprayers, and ropes.
• Assist with rigging and felling of trees
• Apply herbicides (with proper certification) to manage growth
• Load/unload trucks and hike through challenging terrain carrying gear.
• Help with traffic control and public safety at the jobsite.
• Participate in daily job briefings and safety meetings.
• Travel to multiple worksites, including occasional overnight stays.

Skills

Groundcrew experience

Height work readiness

Tree ID basics

CDL license

CPR/First Aid

Safety compliance

Job description

Lewis Services is hiring a Trimmer Trainee to support tree crews and vegetation management for utility partners. You’ll learn pruning, line clearance, tool operation, and safety procedures while traveling to multiple worksites and participating in training and certifications.

Ideal candidates bring 6+ months of tree crew experience, readiness to work at heights, and a CDL with medical certification. The role emphasizes safety, learning, and teamwork in outdoor environments.