Tree Operations Foreman

Well Rooted Gardens; Omaha (NE); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Well Rooted Gardens seeks an experienced Tree Operations Foreman to lead a tree crew, manage daily field work, and ensure safety and quality on removal and trimming projects.

The role requires hands-on leadership, coordination with the Operations Manager and clients, equipment operation, and ongoing employee development with an eye toward growth of the tree division.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading or assisting in leading a field crew.
• Able to communicate clearly with team members and supervisors.
• Physically able to perform demanding outdoor work.
• Experience operating equipment such as skid steer or mini excavator is preferred.
• CDL is a plus but not required.
• Reliable, organized, and detail-oriented.

Responsibilities

• Lead the tree crew in removal and trimming projects according to contracts.
• Oversee daily crew execution, safety, and quality control.
• Coordinate with Operations Manager and clients on project planning and changes.
• Manage crew scheduling, goals, and performance discussions.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and company procedures.
• Identify training opportunities and develop crew members.

Skills

Leadership experience

Clear communication

Safety training

Reliability & organization

Physical stamina

Valid driver’s license

Tools

Skid steer

Mini excavator

Job description

Position Summary - Tree Operations Foreman

We are seeking an experienced Tree Climber and Tree Work Specialist to take a leadership position in our Tree Division. This position will have leadership opportunities and authority within the tree division while reporting directly to the Operations Manager. The goal is to improve crew leadership, develop employees, grow in safety, and help grow the tree division.

This is a working leadership role. The Foreman is responsible for jobsite execution, crew leadership, quality control, safety, and daily communication with project managers and clients. The right candidate takes ownership of results, leads by example, and is committed to excellence, safety, and continuous improvement.

Crew Leadership & Operations

• Lead the tree crew in completing removal and trimming projects according to contracts.
• Receive assignments from the Operations Manager, with greater freedom to determine how the work is completed.
• Direct crew members, establish daily goals, and address performance or communication concerns.
• Meet with the Operations Manager at 7:45 a.m. to discuss projects, scheduling, and goals.
• Communicate with customers, on site, regarding routine project details and minor changes, referring contract changes to sales.

Equipment & Budget

• Manage a limited budget for climbing, rigging, and other minor tree equipment.
• Help establish equipment purchasing priorities and long-term savings goals with management.

Training & Safety

• Lead tree crew safety training and reinforce company safety standards.
• Select and attend a designated number of industry training seminars with crew members.
• Help establish goals for implementing new skills and techniques learned during training.

Hiring & Growth

• Help select additional Tree Crew members. Possibly a ground employee in 2026 and a climber in 2027.
• Assist in developing the personnel and equipment needed to expand to a third tree truck over the next 1-3 years.
• Work toward allowing the specialty tree crew to focus on removals and trimming rather than stump work.

Authority & Accountability

• The Tree Foreman would have greater authority over daily crew decisions, work methods, training, and approved equipment purchases.
• The Operations Manager would retain final authority over scheduling, major purchases, hiring, and overall company operations.

Leadership Expectations

• Lead by example in work ethic, attitude, and craftsmanship
• Train and develop crew members in proper installation methods
• Enforce safety standards and company procedures
• Support and model the company's core values daily
• Take ownership of jobsite outcomes and problem-solve proactively

Requirements

• Proven experience in Tree work.
• Experience leading or assisting in leading a field crew preferred
• Equipment operation experience (skid steer, mini excavator, etc.) preferred
• Physically able to perform demanding outdoor work
• Valid driver's license required (CDL is a plus)
• Reliable, organized, and detail-oriented
• Able to communicate clearly with team members and supervisors

Position Details

• Year-round employment
• Competitive pay based on experience and leadership ability
• Ongoing skills training and leadership development