Stump Grinder / Tree Worker

Tri-State Tree Service; Pensacola (FL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

Health/dental/vision insurance

Life insurance

PTO

Professional development

Job summary

Tri-State Tree Service is seeking a Stump Grinder Operator to remove tree stumps from residential and commercial properties with precision and safety. You will operate heavy equipment, transport and set up gear, and assess site conditions to determine the best approach.

This role requires 1+ years of stump grinder experience, a valid driver’s license, and strong safety and teamwork skills. Expect outdoor work with varying weather and competitive pay and benefits.

Qualifications

• 1+ years experience operating stump grinders or similar heavy equipment.
• Valid driver's license with clean driving record.
• Physical fitness for demanding outdoor work in all weather.
• Commitment to safety protocols and quality workmanship.

Responsibilities

• Operate stump grinding machinery to remove tree stumps on residential and commercial properties.
• Transport equipment safely to job sites and set up machinery following safety protocols.
• Assess stump removal projects to determine optimal approach considering size, location, and landscape.
• Execute precision grinding operations ensuring thorough elimination while minimizing environmental impact.
• Protect surrounding property, structures, utilities, and landscaping from damage during operations.
• Maintain clean, professional job sites and ensure customer satisfaction.

Skills

Stump grinder operation

Valid driver’s license

Mechanical aptitude

Physical fitness

Attention to detail

Spatial awareness

Customer communication

Problem-solving

Safety compliance

Quality workmanship

Job description

Pensacola, United States | Posted on 08/28/2026

The Stump Grinder Operator at Tri-State Tree Service operates heavy stump removal equipment to efficiently eliminate tree stumps from residential and commercial properties. This skilled position combines precision equipment operation with site management, ensuring complete stump removal while protecting surrounding property. Work independently or with crews, delivering professional results while maintaining high safety and quality standards.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Equipment Operation & Stump Removal

• Operate stump grinding machinery to remove tree stumps from residential and commercial properties
• Transport equipment safely to job sites and set up machinery following safety protocols
• Assess stump removal projects to determine optimal approach considering size, location, and landscape
• Execute precision grinding operations ensuring thorough elimination while minimizing environmental impact

Site Management & Safety

• Protect surrounding property, structures, utilities, and landscaping from damage during operations
• Manage debris and wood chips, ensuring proper cleanup and disposal
• Maintain clean, professional job sites and ensure customer satisfaction
• Follow all safety guidelines including proper PPE usage and operating procedures
• Maintain accurate records of work performed and equipment usage

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• 1+ years experience operating stump grinders or similar heavy equipment
• Valid driver's license with clean driving record
• Strong mechanical aptitude for equipment operation and troubleshooting
• Physical fitness for demanding outdoor work in all weather
• Precision equipment operation with attention to detail
• Good spatial awareness and depth perception for safe machinery operation
• Effective communication for customer interaction and crew coordination
• Problem-solving abilities for challenging access and removal situations
• Commitment to safety protocols and quality workmanship

Physical Requirements

• Lift 30-50+ pounds regularly and operate heavy machinery
• Strength and stamina for physically demanding 8-10 hour workdays
• Good vision, hearing, and coordination for safe equipment operationComfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Maintain balance around machinery

Preferred

• Previous tree service or landscaping experience
• Experience with various stump grinder models
• Basic mechanical repair knowledge

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Schedule: M-F, with occasional weekend work Benefits: 401(k) matching, health/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, PTO, professional development

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

Successful completion of pre-employment screening including drug/alcohol testing, background verification, and motor vehicle record review required.