Tree Crew - Groundskeeper

California Institute of Technology; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, CA seeks a Grounds Worker with extensive tree care experience to support tree maintenance and safety compliance. The role involves assisting Tree Care Specialists, handling equipment such as chainsaws and brush chippers, and ensuring safe work perimeters and OSHA guidelines.

The position requires five years in tree care, knowledge of pruning standards, rigging, and aerial rescue techniques, plus a valid California driver’s license.

Qualifications

• Five years of experience in tree care management and operation of a brush chipper.
• Knowledge of names, characteristics, and pruning requirements of tree species.
• Knowledge of rigging, basic knots and climbing methods, aerial rescue techniques, and materials and equipment used in tree work.
• Must possess a valid California Driver’s license and maintain it throughout employment.

Responsibilities

• Assist tree workers in maintaining a safe work perimeter and reduce foot traffic during tree work.
• Follow ANSI S300 standards and ISA pruning guidelines to maintain tree health and structure.
• Identify tree species and inspect for disease, pests, cracks, or hazards and take corrective action.
• Assist in installing tree cables, braces, and supports when needed.
• Operate equipment such as chain saws, brush chipper, aerial truck, stump grinders, welder, and hedge trimmers.
• Maintain communication between overhead worker and groundman.
• Secure the work area after assessing requirements.
• Submit daily reports and maintain tree work records.

Skills

Tree care management experience

Rigging and climbing techniques

Aerial rescue techniques

Valid California driver’s license

Tools

Brush chipper

Chain saws

Aerial truck

Stump grinders

Welder

Hedge trimmers

Job description

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

Job Summary

Under general supervision from a Grounds Supervisor or Tree Worker, performs tree care management support to ensure the safety of people and property is maintained while performing tree work. Assists the Tree Care Specialist with daily tree work requirements and follows Safety and OSHA regulations.

Essential Job Duties

• Assists tree workers in maintaining a safe work perimeter by using different safety methods to reduce foot traffic in the area while tree work is in progress.
• Assists in tree care management to maintain health, strength, and attractiveness of trees by following ANSI S300 standards and ISA tree pruning guidelines.
• Ability to identify tree species by name and inspect trees to identify problems, such as disease or pest conditions, fungus, fruiting bodies, decayed trunks or branches, cracks or other structural weaknesses, or anything indicating a potential hazard, and take corrective action.
• Assist in installation of tree cables, braces, and supports when needed.
• Operate a variety of equipment such as chain saws, brush chipper, aerial truck, stump grinders, welder, and hedge trimmers.
• Follow established visual and audible communication practices between overhead tree worker and groundman during work schedule.
• Responsible for securing the work area after assessing work requirements.
• Perform and maintain daily inspection logs of brush chipper and dump truck.
• Submit tree removal and/or replacement recommendations.
• Maintain tree work records and submit reports of daily work completed for updating the tree database.
• Respond to emergency calls regarding fallen trees or limbs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Five years' experience in tree care management and operation of a brush chipper.
• Knowledge of names, characteristics, and pruning requirements of tree species.
• Knowledge of rigging, basic knots and climbing methods, aerial rescue techniques, and materials and equipment used in tree work.
• Must possess a valid California Driver's license and maintain it throughout the course of employment. Must be eligible to drive Institute vehicles under the Institute's Motor Vehicle Use policy and adhere to the policy.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift 50 lbs. on a regular basis and be able to work in an outside environment.

Required Documents

• Resume

Hiring Range

$23.00 - $27.25 Per HourThe salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.

EEO Statement

Caltech is an equal opportunity employer and, as a federal contractor, takes affirmative action to employ qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Disability Accommodations

Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position.

If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at [e-mail].

Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at [e-mail].