Tree Trimming Equipment Operator Iii

Overview

This is an intermediate level tree worker position responsible for clearing right-of-ways. This position works under limited supervision of the Tree Trim Crew Leader. The primary responsibilities include driving and operating a bucket truck and a loader truck to cut or trim tree limbs over, beside, and under energized powerlines; ensuring all safety rules and regulations are followed; safely climbing trees to cut limbs near electric powerlines;

cutting underbrush and trimming trees; dragging limbs and clearing the work area of debris. This job is safety-sensitive and is subject to a pre-employment background check and random drug screenings.

• Clears distribution and transmission line right-of-ways of trees and brush while lines are energized or de-energized.
• Operates a chain saw, ax, bush hook, pruners, pole saw, leaf rake, pitchfork, hand saw and other tools to cut trees, limbs and underbrush around electric power lines.
• Sharpens chainsaws with a hand file and performs field repairs.
• Drives and operates bucket trucks and loader trucks.
• Utilizes proper techniques for trimming or cutting down trees.
• Climbs and works in a tree to cut or trim limbs near electric power lines; works in precarious positions at considerable heights above ground.
• Communicates with immediate supervisor to ensure full understanding of the scope and hazards of the task.
• Participates in tailgate sessions and reports accidents to the Tree Trim Crew Leader.
• Informs the Tree Trim Crew Leader of repairs necessary to vehicles or work equipment.
• Demonstrates initiative to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, and provide customer service.
• Exhibits judgment and knowledge of Fairhope Public Utilities practices and procedures while performing duties.

• Wear all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Attend and participate in safety meetings and training courses.
• Respond to after-hours calls if needed and assist other departments as requested.

Performs other job-related duties as required or assigned.

• Possess a high school diploma or GED.
• Prefer experience in vegetation management on an electric power system, maintenance and repair.
• Possess a current and valid commercial driver’s license; must be insurable.
• Ability to work overtime and non-standard hours when required.
• Ability to travel to attend professional development training programs and to provide mutual aid assistance.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment background check and an initial drug screen.
• Ability to obtain CPR/First Aid Training.
• Applicant must obtain a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) within 6 months after date of hire.

• Knowledge of City rules, regulations, policies, and procedures; knowledge of City geography, electric system layout and roads.
• Communication skills to effectively communicate internally and externally, both orally and in writing.
• Verbal and listening skills to communicate with co-workers, supervisors, the general public and over the telephone.
• Writing skills to prepare professional letters, reports and other materials using correct English, grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
• Reading skills to understand City policies and guidelines.
• Ability to operate equipment used in electric line installation, maintenance, or repair.
• Ability to safely remove trees and brush associated with line work.
• Ability to safely install and remove City holiday lights.
• Ability to monitor material and supply needs for tree crews.
• Knowledge of traffic laws and flagging.
• Ability to maintain professional attitude and respond to emergency situations and calls.
• Ability to work in hazardous or dangerous conditions and to troubleshoot problems related to electric service.
• Ability to locate electrical service lines at residences and businesses.
• Ability to deal with contacts in a courteous and patient manner; prioritize and multi-task; organize files and work projects; work with little or no supervision.
• Ability to drive and operate bucket truck and loader truck; skill in using chainsaw, pruner, hand saw, ax, bush hook or other line clearing tools; skill in using climbing spurs, ropes, knots, and related equipment.

The work is very heavy and may require lifting up to 100 pounds, with frequent lifting of objects up to 50 pounds. The job includes constant climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, handling, talking, hearing and seeing.

The work environment includes high risks with exposure to potentially dangerous situations or unusual environmental stress, such as working at great heights under extreme weather conditions. PPE may be required (FR clothing, boots, goggles, gloves, hard hats). May require after-hours responses to restore power outages. May involve long hours with limited rest.