Trimmer Trainee

About the Role

Join Lewis, the second-largest utility vegetation management company in North America and a proud employee-owned business. As a Trimmer Trainee, you’ll develop the skills to support tree crews with tree trimming and line clearing operations, assisting in vegetation management for utility partners. Experience the outdoors while working in nature, with a focus on training, safety, and career growth.

Responsibilities

• Assist with ground-level vegetation management around power lines, including tree pruning, vegetation removal, lifting logs, dragging brush, and supporting climbers.
• Prune and remove branches, lift logs (while climbing or using an aerial lift), under direct supervision after proper training.
• Support crews with site prep, equipment setup, and jobsite cleanup.
• Operate and maintain tools such as chainsaws, chippers, sprayers, and ropes.
• 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).

Requirements

• 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 of basic tree identification and vegetation management practices.
• Ability to obtain Trimmer Trainee Technical Knowledge and Skills Certification.
• 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 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.

Frequency of Activities:

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

Note: 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.

Note: 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, herbicides, fuel, cones, signs.
• Tablets and communication devices.

Benefits

• Competitive pay.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
• Paid training and industry certifications.
• Health, dental, vision, and HSA options.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).