Equipment Operator

About the role

At Lewis, we're not just trimming trees — we're building a future. As the second-largest utility vegetation management company in North America and a proud employee-owned business, we believe every person on our team matters. When you join Lewis, you're not just taking a job — you're investing in your future.

Experience the great outdoors while working in nature, not stuck behind a desk. Elevate your career with us — we prioritize training and internal promotions. Join a vibrant team that champions safety, values your feedback, and fosters a strong sense of camaraderie. Shape your future with us through our fantastic Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment per Lewis policy and manufacturer guidelines
• Safeguard equipment and ensure proper maintenance and inspection
• Identify and mark hazards in the work area
• Promote safety for colleagues and the public
• Maintain tools, equipment, and work vehicles
• Report equipment issues and incidents immediately
• Support customer and public relations
• Drive and operate trucks and other assigned equipment
• Participate in job briefings and site preparation
• Remove vegetation and debris (e.g., lifting logs, dragging brush)
• Operate chainsaws and similar equipment after demonstrating proficiency
• Load/unload trucks and machinery
• Hike difficult terrain while carrying tools and equipment
• Apply herbicide in compliance with regulations
• Set up traffic control zones and direct traffic
• Travel frequently, including overnight stays
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Understanding of policies and procedures for Equipment Operators
• Relevant licenses/certifications to operate heavy equipment
• General knowledge of trees and arboriculture techniques (if involved in tree work)
• Completion of Equipment Operator Technical Knowledge Certification
• Basic knowledge of electrical circuits and ability to read circuit maps
• Herbicide applicator certification and licensing
• Valid driver's license, CDL, and medical certification (as required)
• CPR and First Aid certification (provided by Lewis)
• Compliance with all applicable laws

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. to shoulder height
• Push or pull a minimum of 50 lbs.
• Walk or hike up to one mile on uneven terrain
• Climb onto and off of equipment
• Endure extreme climate conditions
• Hear, speak, see, and communicate effectively
• Operate two-handed tools and equipment
• Continuously: operating equipment, handling/grasping, repetitive movements
• Frequently: sitting
• Occasionally: lifting/carrying, pushing/pulling, driving, climbing, stooping/kneeling, reaching, walking, standing
• Never: tree ascending/descending, confined spaces

Environmental Conditions

• Continuously: outdoor work
• Frequently: temperature extremes
• Occasionally: noise levels
• Rarely: hazardous materials, air quality issues
• Never: confined spaces

Conditions vary by region. PPE required per OSHA and ANSI standards.

Tools & Equipment

• Aerial lift trucks, dump trucks, ATVs
• Chainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, chipper
• Blowers, pruners, rakes, winches, ropes
• Herbicide applicators, fuel, cones, signs
• Communication devices, tablet computers
• Manual and hydraulic tools

Benefits

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