Climber - Arborist

Join to apply for the Trimmer/Climber - Arborist role at Lewis Services | 100% Employee-Owned

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 our fantastic Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

What You’ll Do as a Trimmer

As a Trimmer/Climber at Lewis Tree Services, you’ll build foundational skills in utility vegetation management and provide support for tree trimming and line clearing operations serving utility companies and other clients.

• Ground‑level and aloft tree pruning, felling, and vegetation removal to maintain clearance around power lines and equipment (includes climbing or aerial lift work under supervision and proper training).
• Operate chainsaws, chippers, and similar equipment; use handlines to lower limbs and equipment; fell and rig trees.
• Assist with job site set up, maintenance, rigging, traffic control, and general job site cleanup.
• Support job site safety by spotting, assisting climbers, and communicating hazards.
• Apply herbicides in accordance with company and legal guidelines.
• Drive and operate trucks and specialized equipment (certification required).
• Participate in job briefings and follow safety protocols.
• Travel as needed for work, including potential overnight stays.

What You Bring

• At least 12 months’ experience working on tree crews as a Trimmer Trainee.
• Basic knowledge of tree species and arboriculture pruning techniques.
• Ability to perform work at heights and use climbing gear or aerial lifts.
• Trimmer Technical Knowledge and Skills Certification (or ability to complete).
• Valid driver’s license, CDL, and medical certification as required.
• CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis).
• Acquire and keep the required training and licenses for the safe and proper use of herbicides.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and situational awareness 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 and equipment
• Progress skill in tree ascent and descent
• Work and maneuver at considerable heights during adverse weather conditions

Continuously – Standing, Walking, Handling/Grasping, Repetitive Movements.

Frequently - Lifting/Carrying, Pushing/Pulling, Stooping/Kneeling, Reaching/Tree Ascending-Descending.

Occasionally – Driving / Climbing (stairs/ladders).

Rarely – Sitting/Operating.

Comments:
You should expect variability in size, proportions, conditions, and weights of supplies, equipment, and work conditions.

Continuously - Outdoor work.

Occasionally - Noise Levels.

Frequently - Extreme Temperatures.

Rarely - Contact with hazardous materials or air quality issues.

Never - Confined Spaces.

Comments:
You should expect variability based on regional weather patterns. Personal protective equipment is required to be worn by OSHA and ANSI.

Equipment may include: aerial lift trucks, dump trucks, ATVs, chainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, chippers, blowers, pruners, rakes, winches, ropes, climbing gear: harness, chaps, spikes.

• Sprayers, herbicide applicators, fuel, cones, signs.
• Tablets and communication devices.

• Competitive pay ($36-41/hour)
• Paid training and certifications.
• Career advancement opportunities.
• Local 03 Benefits.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and…