Equipment Operator / Crew Member - Mankato

Carr's Tree Service is seeking motivated and safety-conscious individuals to join our team. An equipment operator in the context of tree care is a specialized role within the arboriculture industry. Tree care equipment operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating heavy machinery and specialized equipment used in tree maintenance, tree removal, and related tasks. Operators are a valuable part of a tree crew with job responsibilities including but are not limited to:

Primary Responsibilities of a Crew:

Tree Care Site Preparation: Prepare the work site and ensure the proper setup of equipment for tree care operations and identify any potential safety hazards.

Tree Pruning and Trimming: Removing dead, diseased, or broken branches, thinning the tree canopy for better air circulation, shaping trees for aesthetic purposes, and reducing tree size for safety and clearance reasons using aerial lifts and other equipment to access trees at various heights.

Tree Removal: Safely and efficiently cutting and removing trees that are dead, dying, diseased, unwanted, or pose a safety hazard due to their location. This includes using specialized equipment such as aerial baskets, cranes, chainsaws, pole saws, and ropes, ensuring minimal impact on surrounding structures and landscaping.

Stump Grinding and Removal: Utilize stump grinders to remove tree stumps from the ground after tree removal to prevent regrowth and eliminate tripping hazards.

Site Cleanup and Debris Removal: Clearing away branches, leaves, and other debris generated from tree work. This includes chipping branches into mulch or transporting debris off-site for disposal.

Emergency Tree Services: Responding to emergencies such as storm damage, where fallen trees or large branches need to be removed to ensure safety and restore access.

Brush Mowing: Safely operate equipment to clear areas of vegetation growth.

Brush Chipping: Operate woodchippers to dispose of branches and brush generated during tree maintenance.

Climbing and Rigging Assistance: Assist arborists and tree climbers in setting up rigging systems and providing support during tree climbing operations.

Herbicide Application: Spray application of environmentally tested and safe herbicides for vegetation management.

Tree Health Assessments: Collaborate with arborists to identify tree health issues and determine appropriate equipment and techniques needed for tree care.

Safety Compliance: Adhering to safety regulations and protocols to protect the crew, the public, and property during all tree care operations. This includes wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and using safe work practices.

Equipment Care and Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain tree care equipment to ensure it remains in good working condition and report any mechanical issues for prompt repair.

Customer Communication and Education: Interacting with property owners or municipal officials to provide updates on tree care services, educate them on proper tree maintenance practices, and answer questions regarding tree health and safety.

Who we are:

At Carrs Tree Service, our mission is to provide safe and reliable tree services to our utility, residential, and government clients by combining teamwork, professional arboricultural practices, and an excellent customer experience at competitive prices. Carrs Tree Service strives to be the premier tree service company in the upper Midwest with unmatched values and ethics.

Our Values:

• Honesty and Integrity

• Safety

• Customer Service

• Reliability

• Hard Work

• Respect and Dignity

Pillars:

• Trust

• Attitude

• Safety

• Communication

Employee Benefits:

• Competitive Wages Based on Experience

• Bonus Opportunities

• Path to Advancement Program

• Medical Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Vision Insurance

• 401K Company Match

• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability

• Life Insurance & ADD

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Health Saving Account Company Match

Crew Member Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years of age with a valid driver's license and a clean driving record (as determined by our insurance carrier).

• Must be able to obtain a DOT medical card.

• Must be safety-oriented, reliable, trustworthy, and professional.

• Must possess a strong work ethic, positive attitude, willingness to learn, and work well within a team.

• Must be able to read, write, and communicate in English to ensure safety of self and crew.

• Must be teachable, trainable, and willing to give and receive feedback and work direction.

• Must meet the physical requirements of the job.

• Desired: CDL class A license, pesticide spray license class A-J, EHAP training (line voltage recognition), ISA certification, degree in forestry or similar degree

Physical Requirements:

• Lift, carry, push, pull, and drag up to 80lbs frequently.

• Stand and walk up to 2 hours at a time.

• Work near or under high voltage energized power lines.

• Work in varying temperatures: 90F to -25F.

• Withstand heights up to 60 feet.

• Work in conditions/areas that may include dust, pollen, smoke, noxious weeds, poison ivy, bees, and other insects.

• Climb trees for limbing or topping using spikes/belts/ropes.

• Work in adverse weather conditions.

• Drive and operate vehicles and equipment within DOT, OSHA, ANSI, and manufacturer regulations.

All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, or status with regard to public assistance.

Qualifications:

• Willingness to Learn
• Valid Driver's License (Required)
• Commercial Drivers License (CDL) (Preferred)

All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, or status with regard to public assistance.