Forestry Technician

Location: Various job sites
Reports To: General Foreperson
Employment Type: Full‑Time, Non‑Exempt

Compensation Range: 18-22 hourly.

About the Role

The Ground Worker plays a key support role on our pruning and tree‑removal crews. You’ll work directly with Technical Arborists and Crew Leaders to ensure job site safety, assist with equipment handling, and maintain efficient workflow throughout daily operations. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in forestry, arboriculture, outdoor work, or hands‑on technical roles.

What You’ll Do

Job Responsibilities

• Assist climbers and arborists by preparing, tying, and sending tools and equipment.
• Support rigging operations, including installing lowering devices and controlling limbs during pruning or removals.
• Operate worksite machinery safely (e.g., chippers, trucks — CDL not required).
• Set up traffic cones and safety devices to secure the work zone.
• Perform daily maintenance on chainsaws and chippers (fueling, greasing, safety checks).
• Prune small to medium trees under supervision of a Certified Arborist.
• Maintain a clean and organized job site, including raking, shoveling, and debris management.
• Identify common tree species at the genus level (elm, oak, maple, ash).
• Mix and measure horticultural chemicals accurately and safely.
• Follow all safety protocols, use proper PPE, and report any equipment damage or safety concerns.
• Provide professional communication with clients, teammates, and supervisors.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED
• Class D driver’s license
• Ability to lift heavy materials and equipment
• Ability to work in outdoor conditions: heat, cold, rain, mud
• Comfort working around machinery, chemicals, and physical hazards
• Must be able to hear verbal instructions from a distance and move continuously throughout the shift
• Basic mechanical aptitude

Preferred Qualifications

• 1+ years of field experience
• First Aid & CPR certification (or willingness to obtain within six months)
• Class A, or B driver’s license
• Ability to operate full‑sized vehicles safely
• Ability to read, write, and speak English proficiently
• Ability to work independently while supporting a team

Skills Gained in This Role (Great for Students & Early‑Career Talent)

• Arboriculture & Forestry Fundamentals: Tree identification, basic pruning techniques, rigging basics.
• Safety Operations: PPE use, hazard awareness, jobsite safety setup, traffic control.
• Equipment Handling & Maintenance: Chainsaws, chippers, rigging systems, small engine basics.
• Communication & Team Coordination: Working directly with foremen, arborists, and clients.
• Physical & Outdoor Work Skills: Strength, endurance, situational awareness, weather‑based adaptability.
• Chemical Handling Knowledge: Measuring, mixing, and applying horticultural products safely.
• Professional Worksite Standards: Jobsite setup, cleanup, equipment inspections, accountability.

Why This Job Matters

Ground Workers are essential to keeping tree care operations safe, efficient, and professional. This role fuels the entire team’s success and provides a strong foundation for career growth into climbing, arboriculture certification, rigging, and leadership roles.