Tree Trimmer Trainee: Learn, Grow Outdoors

Lewis Services | 100% Employee-Owned; Hastings (MI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP

Paid training

Health, dental, vision & HSA

401(k) +

Paid time off

Job summary

Lewis Services in Michigan is seeking a Trimmer Trainee to join our vegetation management team. You will support tree crews with trimming, line clearing, site prep, and equipment handling while learning safety, climber techniques, and herbicide application under supervision.

Our ESOP-owned company offers paid training, opportunities for advancement, competitive benefits, and a commitment to safety and teamwork on varied outdoor worksites.

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 months of experience working on tree crews as a Groundperson or Driver.
• Willingness to work at heights and learn climbing/aerial lift techniques.
• Understanding basic tree identification and vegetation management practices.
• Trimmer Trainee Technical Knowledge and Skills Certification (or ability to complete).
• Valid driver’s license, CDL, and medical certification as required.
• CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis).
• Acquire and keep the required training and licenses for the safe and proper use of herbicides.
• Strong work ethic, team mindset, and commitment to learning safely.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable state, local, and federal regulations.

Responsibilities

• Assist with ground-level vegetation management around power lines (Tree pruning, vegetation removal, lifting logs, dragging brush, assisting climbers, hand up tools, using hand lines, etc.)
• Prune, remove branches, and lift logs, while climbing or using an aerial lift, under direct supervision (After proper training and demonstration of expertise).
• Support crews with site prep, equipment setup, and jobsite cleanup.
• Operate and maintain tools like chainsaws, chippers, sprayers, and ropes.
• Assist with rigging and felling of trees
• Apply herbicides (with proper certification) to manage growth
• Load/unload trucks and hike through challenging terrain carrying gear.
• Help with traffic control and public safety at the jobsite.
• Participate in daily job briefings and safety meetings.
• Travel to multiple worksites, including occasional overnight stays.
• Learn and follow all safety, environmental, and operational procedures.
• Drive and operate trucks and other equipment as assigned (With appropriate certifications)

Skills

Groundperson experience

Driver's license

CDL

CPR/First Aid certified

Tree identification basics

Safety minded

Tools

Chainsaws

Chippers

Sprayers

Aerial lift experience

Ropes / rigging

Job description

Lewis Services in Michigan is seeking a Trimmer Trainee to join our vegetation management team. You will support tree crews with trimming, line clearing, site prep, and equipment handling while learning safety, climber techniques, and herbicide application under supervision.

Our ESOP-owned company offers paid training, opportunities for advancement, competitive benefits, and a commitment to safety and teamwork on varied outdoor worksites.