Tree Climber-Crew Lead

SavATree Spring Valley; Spring Valley (CA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 51,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and dental insurance

Paid time off

401(k) Savings Plan

Flexible Spending Plan

Equipment Account

Training opportunities

Job summary

SavATree in Spring Valley, CA, is seeking a Tree Climber - Crew Lead to join our General Tree Care Team. You’ll perform pruning, removals, and cabling, climbing safely and using chainsaws and aerial lifts to support client landscapes.

Ideal candidates have ANSI pruning knowledge and a commitment to safety, teamwork, and high-quality service. This role offers leadership opportunities and a strong, supportive work culture.

Qualifications

• Valid U.S. driver’s license (CDL a plus).
• Authorization to work legally in the U.S.
• Passion for working outdoors and environmental stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Perform pruning, removals, and cabling for trees and shrubs.
• Climb trees safely using proper techniques, ropes, saddle, and ladders.
• Operate chainsaws, aerial lifts (bucket trucks), and other tree care equipment.
• Apply ANSI A300 Pruning Standards and ANSI Z safety practices in all tasks.
• Ensure proper pruning cuts and preserve health and structure of trees.
• Assist in tree removals with ropes, spikes, and other equipment.
• Identify hazards and perform safety checks before/during/after each job.
• Perform aerial rescues if necessary, ensuring safety in high-risk situations.
• Maintain communication with team and clients to ensure safety and service quality.
• Take ownership and contribute to a safety-focused team culture.

Skills

Driver's license

Work authorization

Outdoor work

Tools

Chainsaws

Aerial lifts

Ropes

Job description

This position currently has a sign-on bonus of $2,000 and pays $35-37/hr depending on your experience + paid PTO + paid benefits and 401K!

What We Offer

At SavATree, your success is our priority. Here's how we invest in you:

• Compensation: Competitive pay based on experience, skill level, and responsibilities.
• Benefits: Health and dental insurance, paid time off, 401(k) Savings Plan, Flexible Spending Plan, and an Equipment Account.
• Time Off: Time-off to support your work/life balance
• Training & Development: Extensive training opportunities, including leadership development and continuing education support in the industry.
• Tools for Success: Access to industry-leading equipment, climbing gear, and safety-focused crews.
• Team Environment: Our Tree Care Team works alongside some of the best trained and equipped teams in the industry, with an emphasis on quality and safety.

About SavATree

SavATree was founded 45 years ago with a mission to preserve trees and protect the natural landscapes we all enjoy. Since then, we've grown into a nationwide leader in tree, shrub, and lawn care services.

We're a values-driven organization built on teamwork, integrity, respect, and a shared commitment to the environment. We pride ourselves on offering a collaborative and supportive work culture where your expertise is valued, and your career path is clear. As we like to say: When you work here, you thrive here.

About the Role

As a Tree Climber - Crew Lead with SavATree, you’ll be a key member of our General Tree Care Team. This team works on a variety of tree care tasks, including pruning, removals, and cabling. You’ll apply your expertise in climbing, pruning, and safety to ensure the health and beauty of our clients’ landscapes. The Crew Lead position offers additional responsibilities for those who demonstrate leadership qualities and want to guide a team.

In this role, you will:

• Perform high-quality tree care services, including pruning, removals, and cabling for trees and shrubs
• Climb trees safely using proper techniques, ropes, saddle, and ladders
• Operate chainsaws, aerial lifts (bucket trucks), and other tree care equipment effectively
• Apply ANSI A300 Pruning Standards and ANSI Z safety practices in all tasks
• Ensure proper pruning cuts and techniques, preserving the health and structure of trees
• Assist in tree removals and utilize ropes, spikes, and other equipment as needed for safe takedowns
• Identify hazards and perform safety checks before, during, and after each job
• Perform aerial rescues if necessary, ensuring safety in high-risk situations
• Maintain strong communication with team members and clients, ensuring excellent service and safety at all times
• Take ownership of your role, contributing to a positive, safety-focused team culture

What We're Looking For

What is Essential:

• Valid U.S. driver’s license (CDL is a plus)
• Authorization to work legally in the U.S.
• Passion for working outdoors and commitment to environmental stewardship

Experience:

• Proficient in proper pruning techniques for large shade trees and ornamentals
• Strong knowledge of tree and shrub species, including their characteristics
• Comfortable climbing without spurs
• Skilled in adhering to tree care safety standards
• Experienced with chainsaws, aerial lifts (bucket trucks), and other essential tree care equipment

Technical Knowledge:

• Expertise in proper pruning cuts, branch collars, and chainsaw operations (for trees up to 50 feet)
• Familiarity with ANSI A300 Pruning Standards and ANSI Z safety guidelines
• Ability to perform aerial rescues and apply various climbing techniques
• Comfortable working with a diverse range of tree species, including Oaks, Maples, Hemlocks, Pines, and more

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift and move up to 50 pounds frequently
• Ability to safely perform climbing and aerial work in varying conditions
• Experience with tree removal, including knowing when to use ropes or spikes for safe takedown

This job requires physical stamina to meet the demands of climbing, lifting, and performing tasks outdoors. You'll frequently lift and move heavy equipment and must be comfortable working in a variety of weather conditions.

Equal OpportunityAt SavATree, we believe in fostering a supportive environment where you can grow and succeed. We offer you the opportunity to advance your career and become an industry expert while working with a team that values both individual and collective success.

SavATree is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.