Crew Leader; Crew Foreperson

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

Join a Company That Grows People. At Lewis, we’re not just trimming trees — we’re building a future. As the second‑largest utility vegetation management company in North America and a proud employee‑owned business, we believe every person on our team matters. When you join Lewis, you’re not just taking a job — you’re investing in your future.

• Experience the great outdoors while working in nature, not stuck behind a desk!
• Elevate your career with us – we prioritize training and internal promotions!
• Join a vibrant team that champions safety, values your feedback, and fosters a strong sense of camaraderie!
• Shape your future with us through our fantastic Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)!

What You’ll Do as a Crew Leader

• Supervise daily tree crew operations and ensure safe, efficient work practices, including training, onboarding, coaching, discipline, and high‑quality job 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 any 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 such as barriers and 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, including trucks, chippers, aerial lifts, and 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 emergency situations 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.

What You Bring

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

• Lift 50 lbs. to shoulder height or higher
• Push or pull up to 50 lbs.
• Walk or hike up to one mile on uneven terrain
• Endure extreme climate variances (e.g., severe cold to high heat and humidity)
• Hear, speak, see, and communicate effectively
• Operate two‑handed tools…