Tree Climber/Equipment Operator

This full-time position is generally responsible for trimming and removing trees on Township property and rights-of-way, as directed by the immediate supervisor. This position is responsible for the operation and proper maintenance of assigned vehicles and equipment. This position involves general tree work on township streets and property that requires skilled operation of vehicles such as bucket trucks, dump trucks and snowplows, as well as manual labor. This position will be expected to work both independently and as part of a team.

Essential Functions:

• Operates saws, trimmers, bucket trucks, chippers and other equipment of moderate complexity for all public works projects: hauls logs, brush and other debris; performs manual labor incidental to the work of operating assigned equipment; services and maintains equipment.
• Assists, as directed, with installation of signs and pavement markings.
• Operates vehicles and equipment for snow and ice control on Township and state roadways; plows Township properties; shovels and salts sidewalks; operates street sweeper, backhoe, boom mower and other equipment; performs emergency highway repairs and responds to other public works related emergencies as required.
• Work responsibilities are variable with periods of extreme activity. Some workdays may be longer than eight hours. Successful applicants will be required to work nights, weekends and holidays during weather and other emergencies. Performs overtime work as requested by supervisor.
• Uses a variety of hand and power tools. Other equipment to include but is not limited to: woodchippers, chain saws, string trimmers and portable electric tools.
• Work requires minimal travel for training and other events.
• Works under field conditions with unavoidable exposure to inclement weather and a variety of hazardous conditions such as dust, fumes and dangerous road conditions. Personal protective equipment and safety gear must be utilized by all public works employees.
• Will be required to participate in a variety of training sessions and instructional classes pertaining to public works practices.
• Other public works related duties as assigned from time to time.

Qualifications:

• High School diploma or GED or its equivalent, at least two years’ experience in tree work, to include climbing, cutting and trimming. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Applicants must possess and maintain for continued employment a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class B
• Working knowledge of best practices in arbor care including safe rigging, knots, ropes and other evolutions.
• Working knowledge of public works equipment, operation and mechanics, and safe tree trimming and removal procedures.
• Must be able to perform heavy manual labor under varying weather conditions.
• Must be able to take and comprehend oral and written instructions.
• Must be willing to update skills and learn new skills as necessary.
• Must attend training sessions as directed.
• Must be able to work well with others.
• Must demonstrate initiative and innovation in achieving results.
• Must adhere to high ethical standards and personal integrity.
• Must use available resources efficiently.
• Must be well organized.
• Must be able to work diplomatically, courteously and professionally with individuals who may be angry, frustrated or upset.

Benefits:

• Defined contribution retirement plan
• 457(b)
• Paid life insurance
• Excellent paid time off and holidays
• Low-cost medical, dental,prescription and vision plans
• Employee Assistance program

A pre-employment drug screening, background examination, and criminal history check will be required.

Supervision received:

Works under direct supervision of the Tree Superintendent with occasional direction from the Assistant Director of Public Works and the Director of Public Works. Some assignments may be conducted under general supervision; oral and written instructions provided by supervisor daily. Performs routine duties that occasionally are carried out independently but are subject to progress checks during and upon completion for satisfactory performance.

Licenses, Registrations, or Certificates Required:

Valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License, CDL Class “B”.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employee is frequently required to bend, kneel, reach, squat, and lift throughout a work shift. Frequent strenuous physical effort required; ability to lift and carry 50 to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. The employee is occasionally required to walk; climb stairs; use hands to operate, finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. Frequent movement in and out of equipment and vehicles.

Will be required to work shifts greater than (8) hours during winter and emergency operations.

Ability to use and wear personal protective equipment and clothing such as hearing protection, eye protection, foot and hand protection and respiratory protection.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Position involves a great deal of bending, squatting, kneeling, climbing, reaching and twisting.

Operates variety of public works equipment such as trucks in excess of 35,000 GVW, backhoe, track loader, roller, street sweeper, boom mower, etc.

Work occasionally involves responding to angry, frustrated or upset individuals.