Tree Worker

Job Description

Reporting to the Field Arborist, the Tree Worker performs a variety of skilled tasks in the pruning, removal, installation, and treatment of trees on campus grounds. Attends bi-weekly arboriculture technique and safety training and field exercises for tree workers. Utilizes appropriate PPE and complies with industry safety standards on job sites and limits risk during tree care operations. Maintains current safety credentials required and hosted by EHS. Executes tree care work orders for customer requests, routine maintenance, emergency response, and plant health care programming. Implements proper pruning techniques including removal cuts that do not damage the branch collar and reduction cuts to the appropriate aspect ratio. Implements simple rigging techniques including standard tree care knots (running/standing bowline, clove hitch, timber hitch, and alpine butterfly), appropriate rigging point and redirect selection, and port-a-wrap installation and operation. Participates in job briefings before every job and establishes and maintains job site safety zones (drop zones) for all operations. Locates trees in the campus tree inventory for work planning and identifies trees in the field before job briefing begins. Communicates work order status to direct supervisor, accurately records labor hours per work order, and requests time off at least one week in advance. This position is designated as “Emergency Personnel”. Must be available twenty-four hours per day, seven days a week to provide support during planned events or emergency situations (such as inclement weather) to include being physically on site if deemed necessary. Operates various equipment such as farm type tractors, stump grinders and chippers as well as various bucket trucks and single axle dump trucks in a safe manner that limits risk and protects campus assets. Inspects all PPE, tools, ropes, equipment, implements, and vehicles for needed maintenance and replacement. Uses hand and power tools such as chain saws, hedge trimmers, blowers, shovels and rakes in a safe manner that limits risk and protects campus assets.

Required Qualifications

Class B CDL with air brake endorsement. Current VDACS Registered Pesticide Applicator. Working knowledge of the ANSI A300 tree care standards and ANSI Z133 safety requirements. Demonstrable competence implementing proper pruning techniques including removal cuts that do not damage the branch collar and reduction cuts to the appropriate aspect ratio and implementing simple rigging techniques including standard tree care knots (running/standing bowline, clove hitch, timber hitch, and alpine butterfly), appropriate rigging point and redirect selection, and port-a-wrap installation and operation. Minimum 3 years experience in the tree care industry with specialization in pruning, removal, and plant health care.
Must be able to cope with heights which may typically reach 50-70 feet above ground. Ability to apply safety standards and procedures in the operation of equipment and performance of work tasks including verification that utility locates have cleared prior to work commencing when required. Must be able to perform heavy manual labor, including safely moving and handling greater than 50 pounds; climb and work from elevated work stations such as ladders and scaffolds; work for long periods of time sitting, standing, walking, reaching, bending, pushing/pulling; and work in all types of weather conditions, including extreme temperatures. Must wear employer provided uniforms as instructed by supervisor or lead. As situation dictates, must wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Preferred Qualifications

ISA Certified Arborist. VDACS Pesticide Applicator License. Experience in a large commercial, public sector, or educational setting.

Pay Band

2

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

$42,000-47,000

Hours per week

40

Review Date

April 11, 2025

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

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