Tree Surgeon
Listed on 2026-08-22
-
Trades / Skilled Labor
Arborist/ Tree Surgeon
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Penn State is searching for a full time Tree Surgeon
- Grade 5 to join the team.
Duties include:
- Inspect trees for disease or insects
- Determine the extent of insect infestation or disease
- Determine corrective action and treat trees and shrubs and their associated root structures to restore them to a healthy condition
- Prune trees, shrubs and their roots
- Determine overall condition of trees and recommend removal of hazardous, dying, or dead trees
- Fell and remove trees and shrubs
- Select, compound, mix, and apply pesticides, fertilizers, and micronutrients to promote general plant health
- Analyze soil test results to determine nutrient needs
- Inspect trees for weak or damaged crotches
- Determine proper placement of cables and bracing rods. Install cables/bracing rod system
- Follow proper sanitary procedures when treating and restoring trees and shrubs and their associated root structures
- Climb in and about trees using a system of ropes and lanyards
- Select tools and equipment, inspect and maintain saws, tools, and safety equipment
- Operate bucket truck, power spray equipment, power chain saw, aerial work platforms, backhoe, payloader, tree spade, brush chipper, and stump grinder
- Direct the work of and assist in training lower grade personnel
- Identify and attach labels to trees
- Provide information on names, locations, maintenance activities and dates, and preventive maintenance schedules for data entry
- Plant and transplant trees; wrap, guy, and brace as appropriate
- Operate motor vehicle as required
Job Requirements:
Requires the use of shop mathematics together with the use of complicated drawings, specifications, charts, tables, various types of adjustable measuring instruments and the training generally applicable in a particular or specialized occupation. Equivalent to 1 to 3 years applied trades training. Knowledge of fundamental botany nomenclature, characteristic cultural requirements of trees, rigging methods, compounding and mixing chemical sprays, fertilizers, etc.,
required. Must possess Pennsylvania Certified Applicator License Category
6. Commercial Driver`s License (CDL) Class A required. Over 6 up to and including 9 months of effective experience.
Work Schedule:
6:00 a.m.
- 2:30 p.m.
Days Off:
Saturday, Sunday
6 to 9 months of effective experience
REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSPennsylvania Commercial Driver's License Class A
- Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Pennsylvania Pesticide Applicator Certification with Category 6 - Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks. This position is subject to federal Department of Transportation testing for alcohol and controlled substances (49 CFR PART 40), and physical examination requirements as per PA.
CODE 231.85.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
This position is part of the bargaining unit represented by Teamsters Local Union No. 8. More information can be found here:
Collective Bargaining Agreement.
For details on starting pay rate and progression, please see the above collective bargaining agreement.
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.
For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery…
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