Groundsperson

About the Role

Join Lewis, the second-largest utility vegetation management company in North America and a proud employee-owned business. As a Groundperson, you’ll support vegetation management for utility partners and various other customers while working outdoors in nature. This role offers opportunities for career growth through training, internal promotions, and participation in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

Responsibilities

• Clear vegetation and debris from work sites around power lines (tree pruning, vegetation removal, lifting logs, dragging 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 per OSHA and ANSI standards.

Tools & Equipment

• 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) with company match
• Paid time off and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)