Groundsperson

About the Role

Join a company that grows people. 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

• Support vegetation management for utility partners and various other customers as a Groundperson.
• Clear vegetation and debris from work sites around power lines (tree pruning, vegetation removal, lift logs, drag brush, etc.).
• Operate and maintain tools and equipment like chainsaws, chippers, blowers, and sprayers.
• Assist climbers by spotting from the ground, handing up tools, and using hand lines.
• Assist with rigging and felling of trees.
• Safeguard colleagues and the public from hazards in and around the work area.
• Apply herbicides (with proper certification) to manage growth.
• Maintain clean, organized trucks and job sites.
• Set up traffic control zones and direct traffic when needed.
• Travel frequently (including overnight stays) to different job sites.
• Participate in safety briefings and follow all company safety protocols.

Requirements

• Groundperson certification (or ability to complete).
• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Physical ability to hike, lift up to 50 lbs., and handle tools.
• Valid driver’s license (CDL preferred).
• CPR/First Aid certification (provided by Lewis).
• Herbicide applicator certification (or ability to complete and maintain).
• Team player attitude, adaptability, and a strong work ethic.
• 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.

Frequency of Activities:

• Continuously: Standing, walking, handling/grasping, repetitive movements.
• Frequently: Lifting/carrying, pushing/pulling, stooping/kneeling, reaching.
• Occasionally: Driving, climbing stairs/ladders.
• Rarely: Sitting, operating.
• Never: Tree ascending/descending.

Comments: 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.

Comments: Expect variability based on regional weather patterns. Personal protective equipment is required to be worn per OSHA and ANSI standards.

Tools & Equipment

Equipment may include:

• Aerial lift trucks, dump trucks, ATVs.
• Chainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, chippers.
• Blowers, pruners, pole pruners, rakes, winches, ropes.
• Climbing gear: harness, chaps, spikes.
• Sprayers, 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, and HSA options.
• 401(k) + company contribution.
• Paid time off and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).