TREE-MEK OPERATOR (CRANE OPERATOR)

About the role

As Alpine's Tree-MEK Operator, you will operate the company's most powerful piece of equipment — a knuckle boom crane used for technical tree removals. You will work alongside climbers and crew leads on complex jobs, own daily equipment readiness, and execute every job in alignment with ANSI Z133 standards. This is a production role for an experienced operator.

Responsibilities

• Operate the knuckle boom / Tree-MEK crane for technical tree removals
• Work in coordination with climbers and crew leads on complex jobs
• Own equipment: perform daily inspection, maintenance, and readiness
• Execute jobs safely in alignment with ANSI Z133 standards and Alpine safety protocols
• Prepare trucks and equipment for the next day
• Read and execute work orders via tablet / mobile systems
• Communicate clearly with crew, sales team, office, and customers
• Complete job reports accurately and on time
• Maintain DOT compliance and reporting standards
• Identify problems before they happen and adjust in real time

How We Operate

Operating the Tree-MEK at Alpine is a production craft. Here's what that looks like in practice:

• Actively Seek Knowledge: Stay sharp on equipment changes, crane operation techniques, and safety standards. The best operators never stop learning.
• Think Ahead to Solve Problems: Spot issues before they occur and adjust in real time. Mistakes on a crane come from poor planning, not bad luck.
• Be Adaptable: No two jobs are the same. Adjust the setup to changing site access, tree positions, and weather without compromising safety.
• Loyalty to the Team: Support climbers and crew leads on every job. Communicate clearly, avoid shortcuts that risk the crew, and prioritize team safety over ego.
• Have the Motivation to Be the Best: Push to improve skills, efficiency, and professionalism. The Tree-MEK is the best piece of equipment in our fleet, and we expect the operator to match it.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of tree care industry operator experience (real production experience)
• CDL
• Clean driving record (MVR)
• Strong communication skills — field and customer-facing
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment
• English proficiency
• Authorized to work in the United States

Preferred: NCCCO Crane Operator Certification