Urban Forestry Equipment Operator - Storm Response Crew

Hattiesburgms; Hattiesburg (MS); Hybrid; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Hattiesburg is seeking an Equipment Operator for the Urban Forestry division within Parks & Recreation. The role requires operating bucket trucks and chainsaws to support tree maintenance and removal across the city.

The position emphasizes safety, teamwork, and the ability to respond to emergencies and after-hours call-outs as part of an on-call rotation. Outdoor work in all weather conditions is expected.

Qualifications

• CDL preferred; may enroll in CDL training within first year
• Minimum 2 years experience in tree work or related field
• Proficient in operating forestry equipment
• High school diploma or GED or equivalent

Responsibilities

• Perform tree removal, trimming, pruning, and planting.
• Operate and maintain equipment such as bucket trucks, chippers, stump grinders and chainsaws.
• Work closely with team to coordinate tasks and maintain efficient workflow.
• Follow safety procedures to ensure a safe work environment for crew and public.
• Assist in storm damage response and debris cleanup during severe weather events.
• Support citywide emergency response operations as directed, including disaster recovery.
• Respond to tree-related emergencies, including after-hours and weekend call-outs as part of an on-call rotation.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Equipment operation

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

CDL

Bucket trucks

Forestry equipment

Job description

Position: Equipment Operator
Department: Parks & Recreation
Division: Urban Forestry

Rate of Pay: $17.00/hr.

Nature of Work:
This is a skilled position on the Urban Forestry Tree Crew responsible for operating specialized equipment to support tree maintenance and removal activities throughout the City of Hattiesburg. The ideal candidate will have experience with bucket trucks, chainsaws, and other forestry-related machinery. Strong teamwork and communication skills are essential, as crew coordination is critical for safety and efficiency.

This work is physically demanding and performed outdoors in all weather conditions. This position plays a critical role in supporting citywide emergency response efforts during storms, hurricanes, high-wind events, ice storms, and other natural or declared emergencies. Employees must be available to assist with emergency operations, including extended shifts and on-call assignments outside normal working hours.

Safety is a core value in this role. The employee must have a strong understanding of safety protocols and adhere to them at all times. Tree work is inherently dangerous, and maintaining a safe work environment for the crew and the public is non-negotiable.

Examples of Work:
• Perform tree removal, trimming, pruning, and planting.
• Operate and maintain equipment such as bucket trucks, chippers, stump grinders, knuckle-boom loaders, skid-steer loaders (e.g., Bobcat), and chainsaws.
• Work closely with team members to coordinate tasks and maintain efficient workflow.
• Ensure a safe work environment by consistently following safety procedures and protocols.
• Assist in storm damage response and debris cleanup during and after severe weather events.
• Support citywide emergency response operations as directed, including disaster recovery and public safety efforts.
• Respond to tree-related emergencies, including after-hours and weekend call-outs as part of an on-call rotation.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors.

Qualifications:
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) preferred.
• Candidates who do not possess a CDL at the time of hire will be required to enroll in an approved CDL training program within the first year of employment and must obtain a CDL learner’s permit within the first eight (8) months of employment. Continued employment is contingent upon successful progress toward obtaining a CDL.
• At least two (2) years of experience in tree work preferred.
• Proficiency in operating tree and forestry equipment.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Strong communication skills and proven ability to work effectively in a team setting.
• Ability and willingness to follow strict safety procedures at all times.
• Capable of working outdoors in all weather conditions and responding to emergency situations when needed.