Tree Surgeon/ Special Heavy Motor Equipment Operator/ Public Works Laborer

City of Somerville; Somerville (MA); On-site; USD 1,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Somerville seeks a Tree Surgeon/Special Heavy Motor Equipment Operator to perform skilled tasks in tree maintenance and care. The role involves climbing trees, operating heavy equipment, and ensuring safety standards. Candidates should have relevant experience and certifications, with a focus on safety and physical ability. This full-time position offers a competitive salary and benefits.

Benefits

Vacation

Insurance

Retirement

Tuition Reimbursement

Qualifications

• At least two years’ experience in tree care with an associate degree.
• ISA Certified Tree Worker preferred; certification required within one year.

Responsibilities

• Performs maintenance, repair, and care of trees and shrubbery.
• Operates heavy motor equipment safely to complete assigned tasks.
• Removes dead or hazardous trees and grinds stumps.

Skills

Tree Care

Pruning

Safety

Education

Associate degree in arboriculture

High school diploma/GED

Tools

Power Saws

Bucket Trucks

Job description

Tree Surgeon/ Special Heavy Motor Equipment Operator/ Public Works Laborer

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DUTIES:

• Performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled tasks in the maintenance, repair, and care of trees and shrubbery.
• Climbs trees and performs maintenance such as repairing limb or trunk fractures by wiring or placing tree rods.
• Performs trimming, shaping, and cutting of trees and shrubbery.
• Removes dead, dying, or hazardous trees and grinds or removes stumps.
• Operates power saws and other tools and equipment, including bucket trucks and aerial devices.
• Uses various tools for tree care and maintenance.
• Operates heavy motor equipment safely to complete assigned tasks.
• Loads and unloads trucks, hauls materials, plows/sands highways, and performs minor equipment maintenance.
• Performs unskilled labor such as digging, shoveling, mowing, snow/ice removal, and debris cleanup.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate degree in arboriculture or related field with at least two years’ experience, or a high school diploma/GED with at least four years’ experience in tree care.
• ISA Certified Tree Worker or Aerial Lift Specialist preferred; certification required within one year.
• Current training in aerial rescue, CPR, and first aid preferred.
• Ability to interpret instructions and report effectively.
• Skill in pruning, bracing, cutting, and falling trees per ANSI Z133 standards.
• Ability to identify trees and hazards, and inspect for pests/diseases.
• Proficient in using trade tools safely.
• Good health, dependability, and physical ability for hard work and extended hours.
• Valid Massachusetts Class B CDL required; Hoisting 2B license within 120 days.
• Safe driving record.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Primarily outdoors in all weather conditions, including snow and extreme weather. Exposure to noise, heights, and high voltage. Requires agility, strength, and safety precautions. May respond to emergency hazard situations and work extended hours.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

Frequent bending, crawling, lifting up to 50+ pounds, working in restricted spaces, and operating power equipment. Visual and motor skills required for safety and task performance. Reasonable accommodations available for disabilities.

Hours:

Full-Time

Salary:

$1,305.65 weekly plus benefits

Union:

SMEU B

FLSA:

Non-Exempt

Date Posted:

April 24th, 2025

Application:

The City of Somerville is an equal opportunity employer. Accommodations available for individuals with disabilities. Contact Adrienne Pomeroy for assistance.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

• MA CORI clearance
• Conflict-of-Interest Law training

Benefits:

• Vacation, insurance, retirement, tuition reimbursement, and more as listed.