Top Trimmer

About the role

As a Top Trimmer at Lewis Tree Services, you’ll fill a specialized and highly skilled role necessary for utility vegetation management and provide support for tree trimming and line clearing operations serving utility companies and other clients. Lewis is the second-largest utility vegetation management company in North America and a proud employee-owned business where every person on the team matters.

Why You’ll Love It Here

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

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced tree trimming and removal work while aloft or using aerial lift equipment
• Support and lead job site and work zone set up, maintenance, and traffic control
• Lead tree felling, rigging, and clearance activities near energized lines (vegetation and debris removal)
• Support and lead ground-level tree pruning and removal
• Support and direct crews in the absence of the Crew Leader
• Apply herbicides in accordance with laws and company guidelines
• Inspect, maintain, prepare, and operate work tools (chainsaws), heavy equipment (chippers), and other assigned equipment (relevant certifications apply)
• Operate, drive, load, unload, and maintain trucks and other work vehicles
• Ensure team and public safety by identifying hazards, maintaining clear communication, and providing support to fellow employees both on the ground and while aloft
• Train and retrain crew members on climbing, trimming, and safety practices
• Promote positive relations with customers and the public and assist the Crew Leader in gaining consent from property owners
• Assist with job briefings, communicate new equipment specifications, and ensure all safety protocols are followed
• Participate in emergency response and storm work as needed

Requirements

• Minimum two years of experience on tree crews and completion of all Top Trimmer-level qualifications
• General knowledge of tree identification, growth habits, and proper pruning techniques
• Understanding of ANSI Z133 Safety Requirements and A300 Pruning Standards for arboricultural operations
• Advanced skills in tree ascent/descent using ropes and a safety saddle, and skilled in aerial lift operations
• Proficiency in electrical circuit basics and interpreting circuit maps
• Top Trimmer Technical Knowledge and Skills Certification (or ability to complete)
• Valid driver’s license, CDL, and required medical certification
• CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis)
• Ability to lead others, communicate effectively, and work independently
• 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
• Progress skill in tree ascent and descent
• Work and maneuver at considerable heights during adverse weather conditions

Frequency of Activities:

• Continuously: Standing, walking, handling/grasping, repetitive movements, and tree ascending/descending
• Frequently: Lifting/carrying, pushing/pulling, stooping/kneeling, reaching
• Occasionally: Driving, climbing stairs/ladders
• Rarely: Sitting/operating

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, 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: $26.11/hour
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Paid training and industry certifications
• Health, dental, vision, and HSA options
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)