Utility Groundhand

The Davey Tree Expert Company; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health plans

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Paid parental leave

401k with company match

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Holidays and paid time off

Travel and lodging provided

Job summary

Davey Resource Group, Inc. seeks a Groundhand 1 to support telecommunications aerial crews on site across central Michigan. You will pass tools, handle cables, and assist in pole work and fiber installations, with emphasis on safety and teamwork.

This entry-level position requires following directions, strong communication, and the ability to travel frequently while maintaining safety standards; lodging and travel are provided.

Qualifications

• Must communicate clearly in one-on-one or group settings.
• Must follow detailed instructions while operating safely.
• Valid driver’s license with clean MVR; DOT certifications may be required.

Responsibilities

• Pass tools and provide ground-level support to the crew.
• Handle cables, conduits, tools and materials as directed.
• Assist in installing telecommunications fixtures.
• Assist with setting/removing poles and backing fill large holes.

Skills

Effective communication

Follow instructions safely

Teamwork

Valid driver’s license

Weather-resistant

Education

High school diploma

Tools

CDL-A

GIS software

Maps/navigation tools

Job description

Company: Davey Resource Group, Inc.

Locations: Grand Rapids, MI, Lansing, MI, Kalamazoo, MI

Additional Locations: Central Michigan

Work Site: On Site

Position Overview

The UAM Groundhand 1 is responsible for assisting telecommunications aerial line construction crews by handling ground‑level construction efforts. This role can encompass safety coordination, handling of tools and heavy materials, filling ditches, site setups, post‑construction site clean‑up, and general communication between aerial crew members. As an entry‑level position, this role requires teamwork, the ability to follow directions, and compliance with all safety standards. Work assignments involve frequent travel, performing daily physical activity, and adhering to all safety standards. This role assists in pole removals, pole placements, and fiber installations of utility infrastructure. This position is an individual contributor role, working in a field environment.

This position requires extensive travel throughout central Michigan, travel and lodging arrangements covered.

Compensation Data

• Pay: $20-$22/hr based on direct experience PAID WEEKLY
• $175 weekly per diem
• 40-50 hour work week
• Paid travel & lodging

Job Duties

• Pass tools and provide general ground‑level support to the crew.
• Handle cables, conduits, miscellaneous tools, and other materials as directed.
• Assist in installing telecommunication fixtures.
• Assist telecommunication line crew with setting poles, removing poles, and backfilling large ground holes left by the telecommunication poles with dirt and shovels.
• Clear undergrowth and piles debris to ensure a clear path from the right‑of‑way by using hand tools or saws.
• Maintain cleanliness and order at job sites including work zone setup and break down tasks.
• Assist telecommunication crew lineworkers with lowering and raising tools or other heavy materials for team members working below or above.
• Professionally interact with landowners to ensure clear communication and understanding of site activities.
• Flags traffic (when certified) to protect employees and the public from potential harm or injury.
• Qualified drivers may be required to drive a 3/4 ton, 1‑ton or larger pickup truck to the job site or to obtain supplies; vehicles may have connected trailers.
• May assist lineworkers to break concrete or rocks around the utility pole.
• May assist with fiber lashing efforts from the ground level.
• Perform other related duties as assigned in support of the project. Job duties are subject to change as directed by team leadership.
• Follow all company policies, procedures, and work rules.

Qualifications

• Required: Effectively and clearly communicate in a one‑on‑one or group setting.
• Required: Demonstrated ability to accurately and efficiently follow detailed instructions while operating safely.
• Required: Valid driver’s license along with a clean Motor Vehicle Report. Must pass the Davey Driver’s Safety Course and obtain DOT driving certifications (if 21 years or older).
• Required: Ability to work in all weather conditions.
• Preferred: Ability to use electronic devices and technological tools in the field, including iPads, cameras, and GIS software. Ability to use maps and navigation tools.
• Preferred: Previous experience in performing manual labor outdoors.
• Preferred: Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) A.
• Preferred: Prior telecommunication knowledge and/or training.
• Preferred: Experience with trailer operations i.e. hauling and backing.
• Preferred: High school diploma.

Benefits

We invest in our employees by offering industry‑leading training, technology, and benefits that lead to a rewarding and safe work experience for employees at all levels.

• Group health plans*
• Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance*
• Life insurance*
• Paid parental leave
• 401k with up to a 4% company match**
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan: Opportunity to buy company stock at a 15% discount
• Holidays and paid time off*
• Payroll savings plan*
• Charitable matching gift program*
• Employee referral bonus program*
• Employee Educational Scholarship*
• Davey Family Scholarship*
• 20% discount on all Davey services*
• Cell phone discounts*
• Vehicle purchase discount program*
• Plus, so much more!
• All listed benefits available to eligible employees on Day 1.
• Union employees are not eligible for a 401k plan, but may be eligible to join pension plans negotiated by their local union.

Divisional Overview

The Davey Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected class, including race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, marital or familial status, disability, status as a protected veteran, status as an Aboriginal or Indigenous person, or other classification protected by law.

Utility Asset Management is a division of Davey Resource Group, Inc. (DRG), a Davey company. Davey has been employee‑owned since 1979. Our engineering, field services, inspection, and construction teams help keep the world connected, supporting the infrastructure of the electric utility and communications partners. The Davey Tree Expert Company provides research‑driven tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental and utility infrastructure consulting for residential, utility, commercial and environmental partners in the U.S. and Canada. We care about our clients, each other and the world around us. We offer the resources, size and stability of a big company while maintaining the culture, entrepreneurial spirit and feel of a small one. We invest in our people, offering industry‑leading training, technology, and benefits that lead to a rewarding and safe work experience at all levels. Wherever you want to grow your career, there’s a place for you at Davey. To learn more, visit Davey.com.

Accommodations

If requested by employee or otherwise as required by law, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Contact Assistance

If you need assistance at any time, please contact us at 1-877-411-7601 or at [e-mail].

Employment Type

Permanent

Job Type

Full Time

Travel Expectations

Up to 100%