Tree Surgeon

Penn State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Job summary

Penn State University is seeking a skilled tree care technician to inspect and treat trees, prune and remove hazardous trees, and oversee safe operation of heavy equipment. You will also interpret drawings and maintain records for maintenance schedules.

The role requires CDL Class A, PA Pesticide Applicator Category 6, and a background check. Expect early work hours and field-based duties across campus landscapes with opportunities for supervision of junior staff.

Qualifications

• Equivalent to 1 to 3 years applied trades training.
• Pennsylvania Certified Applicator License Category 6.
• Commercial Driver's License Class A.
• Background checks required and motor vehicle records check.

Responsibilities

• Inspect trees for disease or insects.
• Determine corrective action and treat trees and shrubs.
• Fell and remove trees and shrubs and prune as needed.
• Operate bucket truck and power equipment; drive as required.
• Direct and train lower grade personnel.

Skills

Shop mathematics

Reading drawings/specs

Safety procedures

Education

1–3 years applied trades training

Tools

Bucket truck

Power spray equipment

Power chainsaw

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• Inspect trees for disease or insects
• Determine the extent of insect infestation or disease
• Determine corrective action and treat trees and shrubs and their associated root structures to restore them to a healthy condition
• Prune trees, shrubs and their roots
• Determine overall condition of trees and recommend removal of hazardous, dying, or dead trees
• Fell and remove trees and shrubs
• Select, compound, mix, and apply pesticides, fertilizers, and micronutrients to promote general plant health
• Analyze soil test results to determine nutrient needs
• Inspect trees for weak or damaged crotches
• Determine proper placement of cables and bracing rods. Install cables/bracing rod system
• Follow proper sanitary procedures when treating and restoring trees and shrubs and their associated root structures
• Climb in and about trees using a system of ropes and lanyards
• Select tools and equipment, inspect and maintain saws, tools, and safety equipment
• Operate bucket truck, power spray equipment, power chain saw, aerial work platforms, backhoe, payloader, tree spade, brush chipper, and stump grinder
• Direct the work of and assist in training lower grade personnel
• Identify and attach labels to trees
• Provide information on names, locations, maintenance activities and dates, and preventive maintenance schedules for data entry
• Plant and transplant trees; wrap, guy, and brace as appropriate
• Operate motor vehicle as required

Job Requirements: Requires the use of shop mathematics together with the use of complicated drawings, specifications, charts, tables, various types of adjustable measuring instruments and the training generally applicable in a particular or specialized occupation. Equivalent to 1 to 3 years applied trades training. Knowledge of fundamental botany nomenclature, characteristic cultural requirements of trees, rigging methods, compounding and mixing chemical sprays, fertilizers, etc., required. Must possess Pennsylvania Certified Applicator License Category 6. Commercial Driver`s License (CDL) Class A required. Over 6 up to and including 9 months of effective experience.

Work Schedule: 6:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Days Off: Saturday, Sunday

QUALIFICATIONS

MINIMUM WORK EXPERIENCE

• 6 to 9 months of effective experience

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

• Pennsylvania Commercial Driver's License Class A - Pennsylvania Department of Transportation,
• Pennsylvania Pesticide Applicator Certification with Category 6 - Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks. This position is subject to federal Department of Transportation testing for alcohol and controlled substances (49 CFR PART 40), and physical examination requirements as per PA. CODE 231.85.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT

This position is part of the bargaining unit represented by Teamsters Local Union No. 8. More information can be found here: Collective Bargaining Agreement.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

For details on starting pay rate and progression, please see the above collective bargaining agreement.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page .

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report