What are the responsibilities and job description for the Skid Steer/ Jarraff Operator position at West Tree Services?
Who we are:
Founded in 1945 by A. D. West and M. E. Erickson, West Tree Service, a Gunnison Company, has been a trusted provider of Right of Way (ROW) maintenance services for utilities. We specialize in vegetation management, including tree trimming and removal, herbicide application, and mowing. Our clients include Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs) like Entergy and OG&E, Cooperatives, Municipalities, and gas pipeline companies. A clear ROW ensures utilities can deliver reliable and uninterrupted services to their customers. Most of our management team and supervisors are certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), promoting professional arboriculture practices.
We Offer:
- Weekly pay
- Paid Time Off & Health Benefits.
- Growth & Development within the company.
- Boot allowance on qualifying purchases.
- 401k 4% match.
Skid Steer/ Jarraff Operator Summary:
The Skid Steer / Jarraff Operator is responsible for operating specialized equipment used in tree care operations, including skid steers and Jarraff boom machines, to assist in tree trimming, removal, and maintenance projects. This position requires skillful equipment operation, adherence to safety standards, and efficient teamwork to complete projects safely and on time.
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Operate skid steer and Jarraff boom machines safely to assist with tree removal, trimming, and debris clearing, including tasks like lifting, loading, and positioning materials using specialized attachments such as grapples, buckets, and mulching heads.
- Conduct daily equipment inspections for safety and proper functioning and perform routine maintenance or schedule repairs as needed to reduce downtime.
- Represent the company professionally when interacting with clients, ensuring the job is done to their satisfaction and addressing any concerns as they arise.
- Keep accurate records of equipment usage, maintenance, and work completed, and promptly report any mechanical issues or malfunctions to management.
- Collaborate with team members, including tree climbers, ground crew, and foremen, to ensure efficient task completion, and assist in organizing work areas and positioning machinery appropriately.
- Clear debris using skid steer and Jarraff to support project progress and assist in loading and transporting debris to disposal sites.
- Adhere to safety protocols and company procedures when operating machinery, help maintain a safe job site for the crew and visitors and promptly report any hazards or safety concerns during safety meetings.
Qualifications:
- Proven experience operating skid steers, Jarraff machines, or similar heavy machinery, preferably in a tree service or landscaping environment.
- Knowledge of tree care operations, including tree trimming and removal.
- Familiarity with equipment attachments used in tree care (e.g., grapples, buckets, mulchers).
- Good communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
- Must have CDL A License
- Certification or training in operating heavy equipment is preferred.
Working Conditions:
- Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions.
- May involve long hours, weekend shifts, or emergency work during storm damage recovery.
- The role requires physical strength and stamina to manage machine operation and assist with manual labor when necessary.
