Groundsperson

Job Description

Job Description

The Groundsperson provides critical support to tree care and vegetation management operations, ensuring safe and efficient fieldwork. This position assists the crew in ground operations, equipment handling, tree felling, pruning, and soil maintenance. The Groundsperson follows all safety protocols, demonstrates technical proficiency in tree care and equipment use, and maintains clear communication with team members to promote productivity and a safe work environment. An individual in this position will be expected to perform additional job-related responsibilities and duties as assigned and or as necessary.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Properly run a lowering line, including “let’s run” and “bring slow stop” techniques, and safely use porta wraps.
• Correctly utilize tag lines to control tree limbs and equipment during operations.
• Set up traffic work zones according to safety standards, ensuring correct placement of cones, signs, and safe tapers.
• Conduct post-trip inspections of trucks to ensure operational safety and maintenance compliance.
• Back trucks with a chipper safely, maintaining communication with spotters and following established protocols.
• Use a throw line to set ropes to heights of up to 50 feet for limb isolation and rigging operations.
• Demonstrate chainsaw sharpening skills, including cutters, rakers, and bar burr maintenance.
• Operate a handle underground saw safely, following proper PPE usage, secure starting procedures, and correct hand positioning.
• Cut wood efficiently and safely under pressure, maintaining proper technique.
• Tie advanced knots, including bowline on a bite and running bowline, for rigging and climbing operations.
• Identify at least five common regional tree species and understand their characteristics.
• Make proper pruning cuts using handsaws and pole saws to maintain tree health and safety.
• Fell trees from the ground using basic felling notches and proper directional control.
• Apply techniques to prevent barber chairing when felling trees under tension or lean.
• Perform soil tilling to support Plant Health Care (PHC) operations and maintain proper site conditions.

Safety and Compliance:

• Follow all company safety standards, OSHA regulations, and ANSI Z133 arboricultural standards.
• Wear required PPE at all times, including gloves, helmets, eye and hearing protection, and safety footwear.
• Maintain situational awareness around moving equipment, vehicles, and active tree work zones.
• Report unsafe conditions, incidents, or near misses promptly to the Crew Leader or Supervisor.
• Participate in ongoing safety training, toolbox talks, and pre-job briefings.
• Promote a safety-first culture by consistently adhering to procedures and mentoring team members on safe practices.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) preferred.
• Prior experience in tree care, landscaping, vegetation management, or similar outdoor work preferred.
• Willingness to learn technical tree care and equipment handling skills.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Familiarity with tree species, pruning techniques, and felling procedures.
• Ability to operate and maintain chainsaws, pole saws, underground saws, and other arboricultural equipment safely.
• Competent in tying knots used in tree work and rigging operations.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining safe and effective techniques.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Valid driver’s license preferred; commercial driver’s license (CDL) a plus.
• CPR/First Aid certification desirable.
• Willingness to obtain additional certifications or training as required.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to perform physically demanding work in outdoor environments.
• Frequent lifting, bending, climbing, and standing for long periods.
• Comfort working at heights, around heavy equipment, and in varying weather conditions.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed primarily outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and wind.
• Exposure to dust, pollen, insects, uneven terrain, and environmental hazards.
• Frequent use of PPE, including gloves, helmets, eye and hearing protection, and safety footwear.
• Work involves physical exertion such as lifting, carrying, bending, climbing ladders, and prolonged standing.
• Work around moving vehicles, heavy machinery, chainsaws, and other potentially hazardous equipment.
• Noise levels can be high, necessitating hearing protection.
• Work schedule may include early mornings, evenings, and occasional weekends depending on project needs.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

TreeServe is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement

TreeServe is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process or to perform the essential functions of this role, please contact Human Resources.