What are the responsibilities and job description for the Foreperson position at West Tree Services?
Who We Are
Founded in 1945 by A. D. West and M. E. Erickson, West Tree Service has been a trusted provider of Right of Way (ROW) maintenance services for utilities. We specialize in vegetation management, serving investor-owned utilities (IOUs) like Entergy and OG&E, as well as cooperatives, municipalities, and gas pipeline companies. Our services include tree trimming and removal, herbicide application, and mowing, ensuring a clear and manageable ROW for reliable utility services. Most of our management team and supervisors are certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), promoting professional arboriculture practices.
What We Offer
- Weekly Pay
- Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off
- Medical, Dental, Vision, and Disability Benefits
- Employer Paid Life Insurance
- 401k employer match up to 4%
- Boot allowance on qualifying purchases
Foreperson (Bucket & Climber Certified) Summary
We are seeking an experienced Foreperson with Bucket and Climber certifications to oversee and guide tree service crews. This role requires an individual with in-depth knowledge of tree care practices, including trimming, removal, pruning, and safety protocols. As Foreperson, you will be responsible for managing daily crew operations, ensuring efficiency, safety, and quality on each project. You will work in diverse environments, often at heights, and must be proficient in both aerial lift (bucket truck) operations and climbing techniques.
Responsibilities
- Lead and supervise a tree care crew, ensuring efficient performance, safety, and quality.
- Oversee tree trimming, removal, pruning, and maintenance using bucket trucks, climbing gear, and chainsaws.
- Enforce safety protocols and ensure crew adherence to OSHA standards and PPE usage.
- Manage and maintain tree service equipment, including bucket trucks, chippers, and chainsaws.
- Maintain organized and safe job sites, ensuring proper disposal of debris.
- Communicate with clients to ensure satisfaction and address concerns.
- Provide training and development for less experienced crew members.
- Complete all job-related paperwork, including daily logs and JSA reports.
- Collaborate with the Safety Department to develop and implement safety initiatives.
- Safely climb trees, operate bucket trucks, perform cuts, and work around power lines.
Qualifications
- Bucket and Climber Certified (OSHA, ISA), with 3 years in tree service and climbing experience.
- Ability to work in heights and lift heavy equipment in challenging outdoor conditions.
- Expertise in operating bucket trucks, climbing gear, chainsaws, and tree care tools; strong leadership and communication skills; knowledge of pruning, tree health, and safety around power lines.
- Valid driver’s license required; CDL and DOT certification preferred.
- 2 years as a crew leader, ability to pass background/drug screen, willingness to travel, and work long hours (up to 16 hours/day in storm conditions).
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift 70 pounds to shoulder height
- Flexibility to squat and bend
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
- Ability to pull body weight up 20 feet and climb trees
- Ability to work at heights and in all weather conditions
- Must not exceed the weight limit for a hydraulic bucket
