Tree Service Aerial Lift Operator

Mariani Enterprises, LLC; Petoskey (MI); On-site; USD 41,328 - 46,838; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan with company match

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

FSA/HSA

PerkSpot

Long-Term Disability and Life Ins.

Paid time Off

Tuition Reimbursement (after one year)

Job summary

Mariani Enterprises, LLC is seeking an Aerial Lift Operator to safely perform arbor care using bucket trucks and spider lifts in Michigan. You will conduct pruning, removals, rigging and install tree support systems while prioritizing ANSI standards and safety.

The role involves mentoring teammates, assessing hazards, and maintaining equipment. CDL Class A is preferred, with growth opportunities through the Mariani Premier Group as you progress in leadership and technical skills.

Qualifications

• Experience operating bucket trucks, spider lifts, and other aerial lift equipment.
• Ability to inspect ropes, rigging, PPE and aerial lifts before use.
• Proficiency in tree pruning, removals and rigging per ANSI A300 standards.
• Capable of physical work in varying weather and conditions.
• Strong teamwork and safety mindset are essential.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate bucket trucks, spider lifts, and other aerial lift equipment to perform tree care services.
• Conduct pre-job hazard assessments and develop safe work plans.
• Inspect equipment and PPE prior to use and maintain tools on site.
• Perform aerial pruning and tree removals following ANSI A300 standards.
• Mentor junior crew members and communicate effectively on site.
• Maintain safety, organization and cleanliness of work areas.

Skills

Safety mindset

Teamwork

Strong communication

Physical stamina

Hazard assessment

Education

CDL Class A preferred

Tools

Bucket trucks

Spider lifts

Aerial lift equipment

Ropes & rigging gear

PPE inspection

Job description

Work With The Best

We are building the premier outdoor living company in the country by creating a "family of family companies" across the nation. Now you can build your landscaping career with the best, working in one of our many company locations nationwide. Learn from the top experts in the field and work on some of the country’s largest and most complex landscape projects. Take advantage of opportunities to share and exchange best practices across our network. The opportunities are endless.

Job Overview

The Aerial Lift Operator is responsible for safely performing aerial tree care operations using bucket trucks, spider lifts, and other aerial access equipment. This position performs technical tree pruning, removals, rigging, and tree support system installations while maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality, and efficiency. The Aerial Lift Operator serves as a key member of the arbor care crew by identifying job site hazards, executing safe work plans, mentoring less experienced team members, and ensuring all work is completed in accordance with ANSI standards and industry best practices.

Compensation

Compensation: $30-$34/hour

Responsibilities and Duties

• Perform all Ground Technician responsibilities as needed to support crew operations.
• Safely operate bucket trucks, spider lifts, and other aerial lift equipment to perform tree care services.
• Conduct pre-job hazard assessments and develop safe work plans before beginning work.
• Inspect ropes, rigging equipment, aerial lifts, tools, and personal protective equipment (PPE) prior to each use.
• Perform aerial pruning and tree removals in accordance with ANSI A300 standards and industry best practices.
• Execute intermediate rigging techniques to safely lower limbs and tree sections.
• Install tree cabling and bracing systems with an understanding of tree biomechanics and structural support principles.
• Assist with crane-assisted tree removals when applicable.
• Maintain continuous awareness of job site conditions and proactively identify and mitigate safety hazards.
• Communicate effectively with ground technicians to coordinate work, ensure safety, and maximize job site efficiency.
• Maintain aerial lifts, equipment, and tools through daily inspections and routine maintenance.
• Ensure work areas remain clean, organized, and professional throughout each project.
• Mentor and assist in the training and development of less experienced crew members.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and technical training to enhance arboriculture knowledge and leadership skills.
• Other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and commitment to teamwork.
• Intermediate knowledge of tree pruning, removals, rigging, and technical tree care practices.
• Understanding of tree biology, compartmentalization, pruning response, and proper pruning techniques.
• Demonstrated proficiency operating bucket trucks, spider lifts, and other aerial lift equipment.
• Strong chainsaw operation, maintenance, and safety skills.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work in varying weather and environmental conditions.
• Ability to inspect and safely use ropes, rigging equipment, PPE, and aerial lift equipment.
• Ability to work long hours and respond to emergency situations, as needed.
• Ability to identify hazards, assess risk, and implement safe work practices.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
• Possess and maintain a valid Michigan Driver’s License.
• CDL Class A preferred or willing to obtain through company-sponsored training.

Career Path (including but not limited to):

• Crew Leader - $34-$38/hr
  All of above functions and skills
  Class A CDL preferred (company-sponsored training)
  Advanced expertise in felling, rigging, aerial lift operation and arbor care equipment
  Demonstrated productivity, safety record, and development of other team members
  Proven leadership and communication skills
• Senior Arborist Crew Leader - $38-$44/hr
  ISA Certified Arborist Certification
  Tree Risk Assessment Qualification
  EHAP and Aerial Rescue Certifications
  High level of accountability and decision making
  Perform all responsibilities of aerial operator, climber, crew leader

The Perks

• 401(k) plan with company match
• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• FSA/HSA
• PerkSpot
• Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance
• Paid time Off
• Tuition Reimbursement (after one year of service)

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. Employers can only E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9. A part of the U.S. Immigration laws protects legally-authorized workers from discrimination based on their citizenship status and national origin. If you have the skills, experience, and legal right to work, your citizenship or immigration status shouldn’t get in the way.

Mariani Enterprises, LLC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment with regard to race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, age, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental disability, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service or any other characteristic protected by law.

Frank Mariani had a vision. As the leader of one of the nation’s largest and most respected landscaping companies, he had come across many like-minded businesses in his travels. These companies shared similar ambitions, values and challenges. He asked himself if it would be possible to create the ultimate industry peer group to help each of these companies become even better at servicing clients, creating opportunities for their associates and building a more secure future for all. Thus, the Mariani Premier Group was born.