Tree Climber/Crew Lead (Rite-A-Way)

Tree Guardians; Saint Charles (MO); On-site; USD 39,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision

PTO

401k match

Certification reimbursement

Job summary

Rite-A-Way Tree Service in the St. Louis area seeks a seasoned Lead Climber to manage a tree crew on daily job sites. You will perform advanced climbing, pruning, and removals using modern rigging techniques and operate bucket trucks and aerial lifts.

Ideal candidates have 7+ years in tree care, 3+ years in leadership roles, and a CDL Class A or B. You’ll mentor crew members, emphasize safety, and ensure high-quality work for residential and commercial clients.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in the tree care industry.
• At least 3 years as Lead Climber, Crew Lead, or Foreman.
• CDL Class A or B required.
• Strong climbing with modern rigging and removals.
• Bucket truck and aerial lift experience required.
• Ability to lead a crew independently; safety focused.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a tree crew on daily job sites as primary lead climber.
• Perform advanced climbing, pruning, and removals using rigging and techniques.
• Operate bucket trucks and other equipment safely and efficiently.
• Plan jobs with safety, production, and crew coordination in mind.
• Train crew members on climbing techniques and safety practices.
• Communicate with customers, crew, and management throughout the day.

Skills

Leadership

Climbing techniques

Rigging

Customer communication

Safety management

Team mentoring

Education

CDL Class A or B

Tools

Bucket truck operation

Aerial lift operation

Rigging systems

Chainsaw & chippers

Job description

What You’ll Do

• Lead and manage a tree crew on daily job sites while serving as the primary lead climber
• Perform advanced climbing, pruning, and removals using ropes, harnesses, rigging systems, and modern climbing techniques
• Safely complete complex tree removals, technical rigging operations, and precision cuts in residential and commercial settings
• Operate bucket trucks, aerial lifts, chainsaws, chippers, loaders, and other tree care equipment
• Set up and execute jobs with a strong focus on safety, production, and crew coordination
• Train and mentor crew members on climbing techniques, equipment use, and job site safety practices
• Communicate clearly with customers, crew members, and management throughout the workday
• Maintain clean, organized, and professional job sites that meet company standards

What We’re Looking For

• 7 or more years of experience in the tree care industry
• At least 3 years of experience as a Lead Climber, Crew Lead, or Foreman
• CDL Class A or B required
• Strong climbing background with experience using modern climbing systems, advanced rigging, and technical removals
• Bucket truck and aerial lift experience required
• Ability to lead a crew independently with little to no additional training
• Strong leadership, communication, and job site decision making skills
• Commitment to safety, quality work, and crew accountability
• ISA Certification is a plus

What You’ll Get

• Competitive hourly rate, based on experience
• Health, dental, vision, PTO, and 401k match
• Certification reimbursement and career growth opportunities
• Consistent year round work with a growing company

About Us: Rite-A-Way Tree Service has proudly served the St. Louis Metropolitan area and St. Charles County since 1974. As a second generation family-owned company, we have built our reputation on quality work, strong leadership, and a deep knowledge of tree care. Our team is committed to training, safety, and professional growth, with ongoing education in the latest climbing techniques, equipment, and industry best practices. We take pride in creating a workplace where experienced tree professionals can build long term careers while delivering top level service to our customers.