Trimmer

About the Role

Join Lewis Tree Service, the second-largest utility vegetation management company in North America and a proud employee-owned business. At Lewis, you’ll build foundational skills in utility vegetation management while working in nature, not behind a desk. We prioritize training, internal promotions, and a strong safety culture, fostering camaraderie and valuing your feedback.

Responsibilities

• Perform ground-level and aloft tree pruning, felling, and vegetation removal to maintain clearance around power lines and equipment (includes climbing or aerial lift work under supervision).
• Operate chainsaws, chippers, and similar equipment; use handlines to lower limbs and equipment; fell and rig trees.
• Assist with job site setup, maintenance, rigging, traffic control, and general cleanup.
• Support job site safety by spotting, assisting climbers, and communicating hazards.
• Apply herbicides in accordance with company and legal guidelines.
• Drive and operate trucks and specialized equipment (certification required).
• Participate in job briefings and follow safety protocols.
• Travel as needed for work, including potential overnight stays.

Requirements

• At least 12 months’ experience working on tree crews as a Trimmer Trainee.
• Basic knowledge of tree species and arboriculture pruning techniques.
• Ability to perform work at heights and use climbing gear or aerial lifts.
• Trimmer Technical Knowledge and Skills Certification (or ability to complete).
• Valid driver’s license, CDL, and medical certification as required.
• CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis).
• Acquire and maintain required training and licenses for safe herbicide use.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and situational awareness skills.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable state, local, and federal regulations.

Physical Demands

• 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.
• Frequently: Lifting/carrying, pushing/pulling, stooping/kneeling, reaching, tree ascending-descending.
• Occasionally: Driving, climbing (stairs/ladders).
• Rarely: Sitting/operating.

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.

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, rakes, winches, ropes.
• Climbing gear: harness, chaps, spikes.
• Sprayers, herbicide applicators, fuel, cones, signs.
• Tablets and communication devices.

Benefits

• Competitive pay ($32.63–40.18/hour).
• Paid training and certifications.
• Career advancement opportunities.
• Union benefits (Local 1-2).
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).