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

ZipRecruiter; Somerville (MA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking a skilled Tree Care Specialist to perform maintenance, repair, and care of trees and shrubbery. The role involves climbing trees, operating heavy equipment, and ensuring safety standards are met. Applicants should have relevant experience and certifications, with a strong emphasis on physical ability and safety adherence. This full-time position offers a competitive weekly salary and benefits.

Qualifications

• ISA Certified Tree Worker Aerial Lift Specialist required within one year.
• Valid Massachusetts Class B CDL and Hoisting 2B license within 120 days.

Responsibilities

• Climbing trees and performing maintenance tasks.
• Removing hazardous trees and stumps.
• Operating power saws and heavy equipment.

Skills

Pruning

Bracing

Cutting

Falling Trees

Knowledge of Tree Species

Education

Associate Degree in Arboriculture

High School Diploma/GED

Tools

Power Saws

Aerial Devices

Heavy Equipment

Job description

Job Description

DUTIES:

Performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled tasks in the maintenance, repair, and care of trees and shrubbery. Responsibilities include climbing trees, performing maintenance such as repairing limb or trunk fractures, trimming, shaping, and cutting trees and shrubs. Removes hazardous trees and stumps, operates power saws, aerial devices, and heavy equipment, and performs general labor duties like digging, shoveling, and debris removal. Also handles tasks such as mowing, snow removal, and spreading sand, using various tools and equipment. Performs other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate degree in arboriculture or related field with at least two years’ experience, or a high school diploma/GED with four years’ experience in the tree care industry.
• ISA Certified Tree Worker Aerial Lift Specialist (required within one year of employment).
• Current training in aerial rescue, CPR, and first aid.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions and report to supervisors.
• Skills in pruning, bracing, cutting, and falling trees per ANSI Z133 standards.
• Knowledge of tree species, hazard defects, pests, and diseases.
• Proficiency in using trade tools safely.
• Good health, dependability, and physical ability to perform demanding work, including extended hours and emergency responses.
• Valid Massachusetts Class B CDL and Hoisting 2B license (within 120 days).
• Safe driving record.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Primarily outdoors in all weather conditions, including snow and inclement weather. Exposure to noise, heights, and high voltage is common. Requires agility, physical strength, and strict safety adherence. May involve extended hours for emergency situations.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

Includes frequent bending, crawling, speaking, hearing, lifting up to 50 pounds or more, and working in restricted spaces or difficult access conditions. Requires good vision and the ability to interpret data, solve problems, and work under deadlines.

Hours: Full-Time

Salary: $1,305.65 weekly plus benefits

Union: SMEU B

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Date Posted: April 24th, 2025