Tree Trimmer III

City of Atlanta; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Atlanta seeks a Tree Trimmer III to lead a pruning crew in Parks & Recreation. The role involves trimming trees, removing limbs, site evaluation, and directing tasks with occasional supervision of staff.

Advanced responsibilities include supervising in the Forestry Crew Supervisor's absence, handling paperwork, and staying on call for emergencies; a GA CDL within 6 months is required, with five years of field experience preferred.

Qualifications

• Five years of tree trimming experience.
• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• At least 5 years removing trees by climbing with/without spikes.
• Must operate various tree operation equipment and have a valid GA driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Prune trees and remove limbs, evaluate sites.
• Maintain equipment and process related paperwork.
• Provide direction on work assignments and supervise crew.
• Mentor less experienced staff; assist in training when needed.
• Remain on 24-hour call for emergencies and respond promptly.

Skills

Tree trimming

Equipment operation

Leadership

Communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

CDL Class B within 6 months

Tools

Bucket Truck

Chipper Truck

Dump Truck

Chain Saws

Job description

Parks & Recreation

Tree Trimmer III

Posting Expires: October 11 , 2026

Salary: $30/hourly

General Description and Classification Standards

Serves as a lead worker on a tree trimming crew. This position is the advanced journey level position of the tree trimming series, which provides expertise in pruning trees, and removing limbs or trees from Parks Recreation areas and City right of ways.

Supervision Received

Works under very general supervision. May work independently or with other skilled or semi-skilled workers with responsibility for completion of assigned tasks.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

These are typical responsibilities for this position and should not be construed as exclusive or all inclusive. May perform other duties as assigned.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, pruning trees, removing limbs, evaluating work sites, maintaining equipment, processing associated paperwork, providing general direction on work assignments, and monitoring the work of other crew members. The Tree Trimmer III may also supervise a crew in the absence of the Forestry Crew Supervisor. Incumbents in this position work independently, exercise significant judgment and decision making ability related to routine assignments, and use limited discretion in handling emergency situations. Incumbents in this position report to the Forestry Crew Supervisor, or designee, who evaluates work on the basis of results achieved. The Tree Trimmer III may be responsible for providing instructional and training support for less experienced Forestry employees in either the Tree Trimmer or Tree Trimmer Senior classifications. Remains on 24 hour call/stand-by as scheduled in case of emergency situations.

Leadership Provided

Routinely provides work group leadership, guidance, and/or training to less experienced staff. May lead or instruct less experienced workers.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of the principles, practices and procedures of the City, Police Department and the various department operations and functions and knowledge of human relations/personnel management, financial, local ordinances and law enforcement and administrative practices, policies and procedures as necessary in the completion of daily responsibilities.

Skill in effectively communicating and interacting with subordinates, elected officials, management, employees, members of the general public and all other groups involved in the activities of the City as they relate to the department.

Ability to develop and administer policies, procedures, plans and activities and to monitor performance of subordinates against measured established goals and ability to comprehend, interpret and apply regulations, procedures and related information.

Minimum Qualifications –

Education and Experience

Requisite, knowledge, skills and experience are equal to five years of tree trimming experience.

High School Diploma or GED is preferred

Must have at least 5 years of experience in removing trees by climbing with and without tree spikes.

Must be able to operate various types of tree operations equipment (Bucket Truck, Chipper Truck, Dump Truck and Chain Saws)

Valid Georgia driver’s license required.

Licensures and Certifications

Must obtain a Class B Georgia Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) within 6 months of hire.

Essential Capabilities and Work Environment

Required physical, lifting, and sensory capabilities are requirements to perform the job successfully. Typical environmental conditions associated with job.