What are the responsibilities and job description for the Tree Pruner position at NYS Department of Transportation?
Are you ready to make a difference on New York State highways and roadways? The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) is looking for tree pruners throughout the lower Hudson Valley to trim or remove trees that are beyond the capability of the NYSDOT highway maintenance facilities. In 2024, NYSDOT Tree Crews in this region removed nearly 9,000 trees which were identified as potential hazards.
These crews utilize specialized equipment, such as aerial lifts and rigging equipment to surgically trim or fell trees along the State right-of-way. The staff attends annual line clearance training where they are trained in identifying the potential hazards with tree cutting near overhead utilities and taking the necessary precautions required for such work. they also received a 5-day ACRT Arborist Training Certification in order to learn proper tree felling techniques, rigging, development of a tree felling plan and a variety of safety and rescue procedures.
A CDL Class A or B license is preferred for the position.
DUTIES DESCRIPTION:
Perform a variety of tasks in the care and maintenance of trees under supervision including but not limited to the following: climb trees to be pruned or trimmed; rig ropes and tackle for self, tools and for removing parts of tree; cut down trees using chain or hand saws; maintain tools and equipment; may operate motor vehicles and light construction equipment occasionally.
Qualifications are as follows:
Six months of experience climbing and pruning trees AND must meet the physical and medical standards. When required to operate motor vehicles, candidates must possess a valid New York State driver's license appropriate for the type of vehicle to be operated.
*Candidates who meet both of the following MAY be eligible to bypass the pre-employment physical: A valid CDL A or B AND a current (less than 2 years old) CDL Medical Certificate (MCSA 5876) that meets specific criteria which will be discussed at the time of interview.
NOTE: All candidates must pass a pre-employment physical/medical examination* and drug test prior to beginning employment.
Cannabis use is not permitted for employees in this title and Cannabis use will be tested for during the pre-employment screening process and may be the basis for disqualification for employment or may be a basis for removal from employment.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $52,136.00 - $57,294.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- On-the-job training
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Retirement plan
- Safety equipment provided
- Union benefits
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- Day shift
- Year round work
Ability to Commute:
- Poughkeepsie, NY 12602 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Poughkeepsie, NY 12602: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $52,136 - $57,294
