Crew Leader​/Foreman - Arborist

Location: Brewster

Overview

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.

Why You'll Love It Here

* 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)!

Responsibilities

What You'll Do as a Crew Leader

As a Crew Leader at Lewis Services, you will oversee and manage a crew performing utility vegetation management, ensuring safe and efficient tree trimming and line clearing operations for the utility and other customers.

* Supervise daily tree crew operations and ensure safe, efficient work practices, including training, onboarding, coaching, discipline, and ensure high-quality and efficient 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.

Qualifications

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.

Physical Demands

Ability to:

* 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

* Maintain 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.

Environmental Conditions:

Continuously - Outdoor work

Occasionally - Noise…