Position SummaryThe Arborist Crew Leader is responsible for leading daily tree care operations while actively participating in climbing, pruning, removals, rigging, and other arboricultural services. This hands-on leadership position oversees crew safety, productivity, workmanship, equipment, and overall jobsite performance.
The ideal candidate demonstrates advanced technical skills, strong leadership abilities, and a commitment to developing crew members while ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, and to company standards.
Key ResponsibilitiesCrew Leadership & Operations- Lead and actively participate in daily tree care operations, including climbing, pruning, removals, rigging, and ground activities.
- Assign daily tasks, establish performance expectations, and provide hands-on training and mentorship to crew members.
- Perform and oversee technical tree care operations in accordance with applicable ANSI A300 standards and industry best practices.
- Evaluate tree conditions, jobsite hazards, and project requirements to develop safe and efficient work plans.
- Operate and supervise the use of chainsaws, aerial lifts, chippers, loaders, stump grinders, and other tree care equipment.
- Maintain crew accountability, professionalism, and adherence to company policies.
Safety & Risk Management- Conduct daily job briefings, hazard assessments, and equipment inspections.
- Ensure compliance with applicable OSHA regulations, ANSI Z133 safety standards, and company safety procedures.
- Verify the proper use of personal protective equipment, climbing systems, rigging equipment, and machinery.
- Maintain appropriate work zones and safety precautions around utilities, pedestrians, traffic, and surrounding property.
- Identify and address unsafe conditions, exercise stop-work authority when necessary, and ensure crew readiness for emergency response and aerial rescue.
- Promptly report accidents, near misses, property damage, and equipment concerns to management.
Production & Equipment Management- Review work orders, coordinate crew assignments, and ensure appropriate equipment and resources are available.
- Manage daily production to meet established schedules, labor-hour budgets, and quality standards without compromising safety.
- Monitor project progress, adjust work methods as needed, and communicate delays or scope changes to management.
- Maintain accurate records of crew hours, completed work, equipment usage, and jobsite notes using ArborGold or designated company systems.
- Oversee vehicle and equipment inspections, routine care, proper storage, and timely reporting of maintenance needs.
- Ensure jobsites are clean, organized, and properly inspected before project completion.
Customer Service & Communication- Maintain professional communication with customers, property managers, crew members, and management.
- Ensure assigned work meets project specifications and customer expectations.
- Protect customer property, landscaping, and surrounding infrastructure during operations.
- Communicate customer concerns, additional service requests, or proposed scope changes to the appropriate manager or Arborist Representative.
- Promote a positive, professional, and team-oriented work environment.
Required Qualifications- 3-5 years of professional tree care experience, including climbing, pruning, removals, and rigging.
- Demonstrated experience leading or coordinating tree care crews.
- Proficiency in advanced climbing techniques, aerial lift operations, technical rigging, and tree care equipment.
- Strong understanding of arboricultural standards, safe work practices, and proper pruning techniques.
- Ability to interpret work orders, manage crew productivity, and make sound decisions in changing jobsite conditions.
- Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record for assigned driving duties.
- Ability to safely perform physically demanding outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
Preferred Qualifications- ISA Certified Arborist, ISA Certified Tree Climber, or ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ).
- CDL Class A or B.
- Five or more years of professional arboricultural experience.
- Experience supervising commercial or residential tree care crews.
- Formal aerial rescue training.
- Familiarity with ArborGold or similar field management software.
Physical Requirements- Ability to climb trees and work at heights using approved climbing systems and aerial equipment.
- Ability to regularly lift and carry up to 50 pounds, with assistance or mechanical equipment used for heavier loads.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and perform repetitive physical tasks throughout the workday.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying temperatures, weather conditions, and terrain.
- Ability to safely operate power equipment and perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
CompensationHourly Pay - $35.00 - $45.00 based on qualifications and experience.
Benefits- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid short-term disability
- Paid life insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Company vehicle or mileage reimbursement (position dependent)
- 48 hours PTO
