Crew Leader; Crew Foreperson

Overview

Crew Leader (Crew Foreperson) at Lewis Services | 100% Employee-Owned

Lewis is the second-largest utility vegetation management company in North America and an employee-owned business. Join a team that values growth, safety, and ownership. This role leads a crew performing utility vegetation management, focusing on safe and efficient tree trimming and line clearance operations for utility and other customers.

• Supervise daily tree crew operations and ensure safe, efficient work practices, including training, onboarding, coaching, discipline, and high-quality performance.
• Plan and assign tasks based on crew members’ skills and job requirements.
• Monitor and evaluate crew performance, including new hires, for training, promotion, and disciplinary actions.
• Maintain up-to-date contact information for all crew members and report availability or fitness-for-duty concerns to the General Foreman.
• Conduct field training, retraining, and job briefings to ensure crew readiness.
• Enforce safety standards and company policies; report unsafe conditions or incidents immediately.
• Identify jobsite hazards and implement safeguards (barriers, warning signs).
• Make decisions regarding work slowdown due to weather or safety concerns.
• Perform and direct tree trimming, removal, and clearance near energized lines using climbing or aerial lift techniques.
• Operate and oversee use of equipment (trucks, chippers, aerial lifts, power saws).
• Interpret work orders, utility drawings, and symbols related to line voltage and equipment.
• Maintain clean and organized work vehicles and job sites.
• Communicate with property owners to explain work, obtain access, and secure written permissions.
• Promote positive relationships with customers, the public, utility representatives, and other contractors.
• Cooperate with emergency services when blocking streets or driveways.
• Maintain accurate records and reports on crew performance, incidents, equipment issues, and completed work; investigate incident reports and damage claims as assigned.
• Monitor and control crew costs through efficient use of resources and equipment.
• Stay informed on company policies, union agreements, and equipment standards.
• Emergency Response: respond to emergencies to eliminate hazards and assist in service restoration.
• Exercise sound judgment in urgent scenarios to protect life and property.
• Request major tool or equipment repairs as needed.
• Travel frequently, including overnight stays, as required.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• At least 3 years of experience in a tree crew or utility vegetation management.
• Strong knowledge of ANSI Z133 Safety Requirements and A300 Pruning Standards.
• Proficiency in identifying poisonous plants.
• Proficiency in electrical circuit basics and interpreting circuit maps.
• Advanced tree ascent/descent using ropes and a safety saddle; skilled in aerial lift operations.
• Crews Leader Technical Knowledge and Skills Certification (or ability to complete).
• Valid driver’s license, CDL (as needed), and required medical certification.
• Acquire and maintain training and licenses for safe herbicide use.
• CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis).
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Ensure compliance with state, local, and federal regulations.

• Lift up to 50 lbs. to shoulder height; push/pull up to 50 lbs.
• Walk or hike up to a mile on uneven terrain; endure extreme temperatures
• Hear, speak, see, and communicate effectively
• Operate two-handed tools and equipment; climb/descend trees
• Work at considerable heights in adverse weather conditions

• Equipment may include: aerial lifts, trucks, chippers, chainsaws, pole saws, ropes, sprayers, PPE

• Competitive pay $21.00–$23.00/hr
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Paid training and industry certifications
• Health, dental, vision & HSA options
• 401(k) +
• Paid time off and EAP

Lewis Tree Service is an equal employment opportunity employer. We prohibit unlawful discrimination or harassment based on protected characteristics and comply with applicable laws.

• Seniority level:
  Mid-Senior level
• Employment type:
  
  Full-time
• Job function:
  Management and Manufacturing
• Industries:
  Utilities

Referral program and location:
Clearwater, FL. Applications and job postings may include additional roles in the area.