Tree Surgeon

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition discount

Benefits package

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University in State College, PA is seeking a full-time Tree Surgeon - Grade 5 to maintain the campus arboreal health and safety. You will inspect trees, prune, remove hazards, and operate equipment to support landscape management.

Requirements include 1–3 years of trades training, PA Certified Applicator Category 6, and CDL Class A. Data entry and safety leadership on site are essential components of the role.

Qualifications

• Requires shop mathematics and ability to read complex drawings and specs.
• 1–3 years of applied trades training are expected.
• Must possess Pennsylvania Certified Applicator License Category 6 and CDL Class A.

Responsibilities

• Inspect trees for disease or insects and determine corrective actions.
• Prune, fell, and remove trees and shrubs as needed.
• Apply pesticides, fertilizers, and micronutrients for tree health.
• Operate bucket truck, power tools, and safety equipment.
• Maintain records and provide maintenance information for schedules.
• Supervise and train lower grade personnel on site.

Skills

Tree care knowledge

Rigging methods

Pesticide application

Mathematics & measurements

Data entry competence

Education

Applied trades training (1–3 years)

Tools

Bucket truck operation

Power spray equipment

Tree climbing gear

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Penn State is searching for a full time Tree Surgeon - Grade 5 to join the team. Duties include:

• 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

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

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 (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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