Tree Care Worker
Technical Arborist – Prunecare Division
Location: Various field sites
Reports To: General Foreperson
Employment Type: Full‑Time, Field-Based
About the Role
The Technical Arborist is responsible for performing both aerial and ground-based tree work with a strong focus on safety, professionalism, and technical precision. You’ll support and lead aspects of pruning, removals, rigging, and equipment operation while coordinating closely with the Crew Lead and General Foreperson.
This role is ideal for individuals pursuing a career in arboriculture, forestry, environmental fieldwork, or technical trades involving equipment and outdoor operations.
What You’ll Do
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with the crew lead and general foreperson to complete pruning and tree removals.
- Maintain and inspect climbing gear, aerial lifts, rigging tools, and forwarding equipment.
- Complete all required paperwork accurately and on time.
- Devise job plans that minimize property damage and increase operational efficiency.
- Load and stage debris for removal and ensure jobsite cleanup meets company standards.
- Use rope-and-saddle climbing techniques and operate aerial lifts safely and effectively.
- Tie knots and hitches used in tree care operations; understand proper chainsaw cuts and wood movement.
- Ensure work meets both company expectations and accepted industry standards.
- Perform daily vehicle inspections, document deficiencies, and report issues to supervisors and fleet maintenance.
- Oversee equipment condition and safety, reporting any damage, loss, or hazards.
- Assess the jobsite for hazards before work begins and maintain high safety awareness throughout the day.
- Communicate professionally with clients and protect client property.
- Identify and respond appropriately to electrical hazards during tree care operations.
- Provide safety and support to coworkers, including assisting in aerial rescues when required.
Required Qualifications
- High School Diploma or GED
- Class D Driver’s License
- Ability to lift/pull/twist/carry up to 70 lbs and work on your feet for the full shift
- Ability to work outdoors in heat, cold, rain, mud, and other field conditions
- Strong communication skills in English (reading, writing, speaking)
- Ability to plan, problem‑solve, and work independently when needed
- Comfortable working around pesticides and chemicals
Preferred Qualifications
- 2+ years of field experience operating tree‑care equipment
- Class A or B CDL
- First Aid & CPR certification within six months of hire
- ISA Certification
- Successful completion of a background check, drug test, and post‑offer physical evaluation
Skills Gained in This Role
These are ideal for Handshake and resonate strongly with early‑career applicants:
Technical Skills
- Advanced tree pruning and removal techniques
- Aerial lift operation and rope‑and‑saddle climbing
- Knots, hitches, rigging systems, chainsaw techniques, and wood dynamics
- Daily inspection, safe operation, and maintenance of arborist equipment
- Hazard assessment, especially electrical hazard awareness
- Heavy equipment familiarity (chainsaws, chippers, rigging gear, forwarding equipment)
Safety & Risk Management
- Pre‑job hazard identification
- Emergency response awareness, including aerial rescue basics
- Workplace and client‑site safety procedures
- Proper chemical handling and PPE use
Professional & Operational Skills
- Jobsite organization and cleanup
- Client communication and customer service in the field
- Daily paperwork, reporting, and digital documentation
- Problem‑solving and independent decision‑making in dynamic environments
- Vehicle and equipment logs, inspections, and maintenance planning
Why This Role Matters
Technical Arborists provide the skilled, safety‑driven foundation for modern tree care. You will blend physical skill, equipment expertise, and environmental awareness to help deliver industry‑standard pruning and removals that protect clients, property, and fellow crew members.