Crew Leader (Crew Foreperson)

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 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 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. Tools & Equipment Equipment may include: * Aerial lift trucks, dump trucks, ATVs * Chainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, chippers * Blowers, pruners, rakes, winches, ropes * Climbing gear: harness, chaps, spikes, hanger puller, manual and hydraulic pole saw, spikes. * Sprayer applicators, pump sprayer, herbicide applicators, fuel, cones, signs * Tablets and communication devices What We Offer Non-Union Benefits: * Competitive pay * Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) * Paid training and industry certifications * Health, dental, vision & HSA options * 401(k) + * Paid time off and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)