Arborist Grounds Crew

Location: Seattle, WA
Employment Type: Full‑Time, Regular
Salary: DOE (Depends on Experience)

Ballard Tree Service is a family‑owned company that has proudly served the Seattle area since 1990. We’re committed to high‑quality tree care and exceptional service—and we’re always looking for talented, motivated individuals to join our growing team.

The Arborist Grounds Crew plays a vital role in supporting tree climbers and arborists during tree pruning and removal operations. This hands‑on position involves working with power tools, operating machinery, and maintaining safe, organized job sites. Grounds crew members are expected to demonstrate teamwork, strong communication, and a commitment to safety while delivering exceptional service to our clients.

• Safely drive trucks with trailers, performing daily pre‑ and post‑operation safety inspections
• Operate and maintain chainsaws, pole saws, hand tools, and other pruning equipment
• Hoist tools to climbers and lower limbs safely using ropes or rigging systems
• Operate chippers, loaders, stump grinders, and other heavy equipment
• Clear branches, limbs, and debris from job sites
• Assist with rigging, cabling, bracing, and structural support of trees
• Direct pedestrian and road traffic to maintain a safe job site
• Maintain clean, sharp, and properly lubricated tools
• Participate in the pruning, shaping, or removal of trees
• Load and haul away debris using company trucks
• Adhere to all ANSI, OSHA, and STC safety standards; always wear proper PPE
• Maintain clear communication with crew members and report any issues to the Crew Lead
• Ensure all job sites are cleaner than when the crew arrived
• Assist in mentoring and training new crew members
• Participate in weekly safety meetings
• Support continuous learning and skills development
• Perform other duties as assigned

• Preferred: 1–2 years of tree care experience
• High school diploma or equivalent

• Valid WA Driver’s License
• Ability to pass a background check
• Current CPR certification (or ability to obtain within 3 months of hire)
• Ability to lift, push, and pull 75+ pounds
• Ability to move safely over uneven terrain or in confined spaces
• Ability to stand for extended periods and work in varying environmental conditions
• Ability to properly wear PPE throughout the workday
• Ability to hear verbal commands and respond quickly to potentially dangerous situations
• Visual acuity sufficient for operating vehicles and machinery

Ballard Tree Service is committed to a safe and healthy workplace. As a team member, you are responsible for:

• Following all workplace safety procedures and guidelines
• Participating in safety meetings and job site risk assessments
• Identifying and reporting hazards, incidents, or injuries promptly
• Using personal protective equipment correctly and consistently

If you’re interested in joining our team, please email us at or call our office at .

We look forward to connecting with you — thank you for considering Ballard Tree Service!