Trimmer Trainee: Outdoor Tree Care + Paid Training

Lewis Services | 100% Employee-Owned; Ionia (MI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary based on experience

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Paid training and certifications

Health, dental, vision & HSA options

401(k) +

Paid time off and EAP

Job summary

Lewis Services is seeking a Trimmer Trainee to support our tree crews in pruning, vegetation management, and line clearance around power lines. You will gain hands-on experience in outdoor work under supervision, with training in climbing and aerial lift techniques.

We offer safety-focused culture, paid training, and opportunities for internal promotion within an employee-owned company, including ESOP benefits and competitive pay.

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Assist with ground-level vegetation management around power lines (tree pruning, vegetation removal, lifting logs, dragging brush).
• Prune, remove branches, and lift logs, while climbing or using an aerial lift under supervision.
• 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.

Skills

Groundperson experience

Willingness to learn climbing/aerials

Tree identification basics

CDL and medical certification

CPR and First Aid

Education

Technical Knowledge Certification (or ability to complete)

Tools

Chainsaws

Aerial lift equipment

Sprayers

Ropes & climbing gear

Job description

Lewis Services is seeking a Trimmer Trainee to support our tree crews in pruning, vegetation management, and line clearance around power lines. You will gain hands-on experience in outdoor work under supervision, with training in climbing and aerial lift techniques.

We offer safety-focused culture, paid training, and opportunities for internal promotion within an employee-owned company, including ESOP benefits and competitive pay.