Trimmer Trainee

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

• Develop the necessary skills to support our tree crews with tree trimming and line clearing operations, assisting and supporting vegetation management for utility partners.
• Assist with ground-level vegetation management around power lines (tree pruning, vegetation removal, lifting logs, dragging brush, assisting climbers, hand up tools, using hand lines, etc.).
• Prune, remove branches, and lift logs, while climbing or using an aerial lift, under direct supervision (After proper training and demonstration of expertise).
• Support crews with site prep, equipment setup, and jobsite cleanup.
• Operate and maintain tools like chainsaws, chippers, sprayers, and ropes.
• Absorb and assist with rigging and felling of trees.
• Apply herbicides (with proper certification) to manage growth.
• Load/unload trucks and hike through challenging terrain carrying gear.
• Help with traffic control and public safety at the jobsite.
• Participate in daily job briefings and safety meetings.
• Travel to multiple worksites, including occasional overnight stays.
• Learn and follow all safety, environmental, and operational procedures.
• Drive and operate trucks and other equipment as assigned (With appropriate certifications)

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 months of experience working on tree crews as a Groundperson or Driver.
• Willingness to work at heights and learn climbing/aerial lift techniques.
• Understanding basic tree identification and vegetation management practices.
• Trimmer Trainee 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 keep the required training and licenses for the safe and proper use of herbicides.
• Strong work ethic, team mindset, and commitment to learning safely.
• 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
• Continuous – Standing, Walking, Handling/Grasping, Repetitive Movements
• Frequent – Lifting/Carrying, Pushing/Pulling, Stooping/Kneeling, Reaching
• Occasionally – Driving, Climbing Stairs/Ladders
• Rarely – Tree Ascending/Descending

What We Offer

• Competitive pay
• 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)

People Promise

We respect the differences between us, and we leverage those differences to create an environment where all employees feel welcome and fairly treated. We seek the best solutions possible by attracting and engaging a diverse workforce where all perspectives are sought out and valued.