Crew Leader (Crew Foreperson)

About the role

Join a company that grows people. Lewis is the second-largest utility vegetation management company in North America and an employee-owned business. When you join Lewis, you’re investing in your future while working outdoors in nature, not behind a desk. We prioritize training and internal promotions, value your feedback, and foster a strong sense of camaraderie. Our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) lets you shape your future with us.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage a crew performing utility vegetation management, ensuring safe and efficient tree trimming and line clearing for utilities and other customers.
• Supervise daily tree crew operations and enforce safe, efficient work practices including training, onboarding, coaching, discipline, and high-quality job performance.
• Plan and assign tasks based on crew members’ skills and job requirements.
• Monitor and evaluate crew performance, including new hires, for training, promotion, and disciplinary actions.
• Maintain up-to-date contact information for all crew members and report availability or fitness-for-duty concerns to the General Foreman.
• Conduct field training, retraining, and job briefings to ensure crew readiness.
• Enforce safety standards and company policies; report unsafe conditions or incidents immediately.
• Identify jobsite hazards and implement safeguards such as barriers and warning signs.
• Make decisions regarding work slowdown due to weather or safety concerns.
• Perform and direct tree trimming, removal, and clearance near energized lines using climbing or aerial lift techniques.
• Operate and oversee use of equipment including trucks, chippers, aerial lifts, and power saws.
• Interpret work orders, utility drawings, and symbols related to line voltage and equipment.
• Maintain clean and organized work vehicles and job sites.
• Communicate with property owners to explain work, obtain access, and secure written permissions.
• Promote positive relationships with customers, the public, utility representatives, and other contractors.
• Cooperate with emergency services when blocking streets or driveways.
• Maintain accurate records and reports on crew performance, incidents, equipment issues, and completed work.
• Investigate incident reports and damage claims as assigned.
• Monitor and control crew costs through efficient use of resources and equipment.
• Stay informed on company policies, union agreements, and equipment standards.
• Respond to emergency situations to eliminate hazards and assist in service restoration, exercising sound judgment to protect life and property.
• Request major tool or equipment repairs as needed.
• Travel frequently, including overnight stays, as required.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of experience in a tree crew or utility vegetation management.
• Strong knowledge of ANSI Z133 Safety Requirements and A300 Pruning Standards for arboricultural operations.
• Proficiency in identifying poisonous plants.
• Proficiency in electrical circuit basics and interpreting circuit maps.
• Advanced in tree ascent/descent using ropes and a safety saddle; skilled in aerial lift operations.
• Crew Leader Technical Knowledge and Skills Certification (or ability to complete).
• Valid driver’s license, CDL (as needed), and required medical certification.
• Ability to acquire and maintain required training and licenses for safe and proper use of herbicides.
• CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis).
• Strong leadership, effective communication, and decision-making skills.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable state, local, and federal regulations.

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift 50 lbs. to shoulder height or higher.
• Push or pull up to 50 lbs.
• Walk or hike up to one mile on uneven terrain.
• Endure extreme climate variances (e.g., severe cold to high heat and humidity).
• Hear, speak, see, and communicate effectively.
• Operate two-handed tools and equipment.
• Maintain skill in tree ascent and descent.
• Work and maneuver at considerable heights during adverse weather conditions.
• Continuously: Standing, Walking, Handling/Grasping, Repetitive Movements.
• Frequently: Lifting/Carrying, Pushing/Pulling, Stooping/Kneeling, Reaching, Tree Ascending/Descending.
• Occasionally: Driving, Climbing Stairs/Ladders.
• Rarely: Sitting/Operating.
• Expect variability in size, proportions, conditions, and weights of supplies, equipment, and work conditions.

Environmental Conditions

• Continuously: Outdoor work.
• Occasionally: Noise Levels.
• Frequently: Extreme Temperatures.
• Rarely: Contact with hazardous materials or air quality issues.
• Never: Confined Spaces.
• Expect variability based on regional weather patterns.
• Personal protective equipment is required per OSHA and ANSI standards.

Tools & Equipment

• Aerial lift trucks, dump trucks, ATVs
• Chainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, chippers
• Blowers, pruners, rakes, winches, ropes
• Climbing gear: harness, chaps, spikes, hanger puller, manual and hydraulic pole saw, spikes
• Sprayer applicators, pump sprayer, herbicide applicators, fuel, cones, signs
• Tablets and communication devices

Benefits

• Competitive pay
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Paid training and industry certifications
• Health, dental, vision & HSA options
• 401(k) + Paid time off
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)