Tree and Vegetation Specialist

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.

Responsibilities

• Support Lewis Tree Service's utility vegetation management operations — including tree trimming, ground support, and herbicide and pesticide treatments — to maintain clearance along utility rights-of-way and ensure reliable service for our customers.
• As a Tree and Vegetation Specialist, you will support Lewis Tree Service's utility vegetation management operations — including tree trimming, ground support, and herbicide and pesticide treatments — to maintain clearance along utility rights-of-way and ensure reliable service for our customers.
• Ground-level and aloft tree pruning, felling, and vegetation removal to maintain clearance around power lines and equipment (climbing or aerial lift work under supervision and training).
• Clear vegetation and debris from job sites — lift logs, drag brush, and similar tasks.
• Operate chainsaws, chippers, blowers, pruners, and other hand and power tools; use handlines to lower limbs and equipment.
• Assist climbers by spotting from the ground, handing up tools, and using hand lines; assist with rigging and felling of trees.
• Mix and apply herbicides, pesticides, and other chemicals according to label directions and formulas.
• Operate spray equipment, including truck-mounted sprayers, backpack sprayers, boom sprayers, and handheld applicators.
• Identify target vegetation and select appropriate treatment methods and chemicals.
• Monitor weather conditions, wind speed, and environmental factors to ensure safe and effective application.
• Calibrate spray equipment and adjust nozzles, pressure, and flow rates for proper coverage.
• Maintain accurate records of chemical applications, quantities used, and areas treated in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Set up traffic control zones and direct traffic when needed.
• Support job site safety by spotting, assisting climbers, and communicating hazards; safeguard colleagues and the public from hazards in and around the work area.
• Communicate with property owners, customers, and the public regarding vegetation management activities.
• Maintain clean, organized trucks and job sites.
• Participate in safety briefings and follow all company safety protocols.
• Drive and operate trucks and specialized equipment (certification required).
• Assist with vegetation assessments and site surveys as needed.
• Travel frequently for work, including potential overnight stays, to different job sites.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable state, local, and federal regulations.

Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of tree species and arboriculture pruning techniques.
• Ability to perform work at heights and use climbing gear or aerial lifts.
• Strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.
• Ability to follow herbicide labels, application guidelines, and safety procedures accurately.
• Attention to detail when mixing, measuring, and applying chemicals.
• Reliable attendance, punctuality, and professional conduct on job sites.
• Read, write, and understand English.
• Valid driver's license (CDL preferred).
• CPR/First Aid certification (provided by Lewis).
• Herbicide applicator certification (or ability to complete and maintain).

Skills

• Basic knowledge of tree species and arboriculture pruning techniques.
• Ability to perform work at heights and use climbing gear or aerial lifts.
• Strong commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.
• Ability to follow herbicide labels, application guidelines, and safety procedures accurately.
• Attention to detail when mixing, measuring, and applying chemicals.
• Reliable attendance, punctuality, and professional conduct on job sites.
• Read, write, and understand English.
• Valid driver's license (CDL preferred).
• CPR/First Aid certification (provided by Lewis).
• Herbicide applicator certification (or ability to complete and maintain).

Benefits

• Competitive pay ($21.00–$30.00/hour).
• Bonus: $500–$800 for new employees.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
• Paid training and industry certifications.
• Health, dental, vision & HSA options.
• 401(k) + Paid time off and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).