Equipment Operator

Equipment OperatorJoin 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)!What you'll do as an equipment operator:Operate heavy equipment per Lewis policy and manufacturer guidelinesSafeguard equipment and ensure proper maintenance and inspectionIdentify and mark hazards in the work areaPromote safety for colleagues and the publicMaintain tools, equipment, and work vehiclesReport equipment issues and incidents immediatelySupport customer and public relationsDrive and operate trucks and other assigned equipmentParticipate in job briefings and site preparationRemove vegetation and debris (e.g., lifting logs, dragging brush)Operate chainsaws and similar equipment after demonstrating proficiencyLoad/unload trucks and machineryHike difficult terrain while carrying tools and equipmentApply herbicide in compliance with regulationsSet up traffic control zones and direct trafficTravel frequently, including overnight staysPerform other related duties as assignedWhat you bring:Understanding of policies and procedures for Equipment OperatorsRelevant licenses/certifications to operate heavy equipmentGeneral knowledge of trees and arboriculture techniques (if involved in tree work)Completion of Equipment Operator Technical Knowledge CertificationBasic knowledge of electrical circuits and ability to read circuit mapsHerbicide applicator certification and licensingValid driver's license, CDL, and medical certification (as required)CPR and First Aid certification (provided by Lewis)Compliance with all applicable lawsPhysical demands:Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. to shoulder heightPush or pull a minimum of 50 lbs.Walk or hike up to one mile on uneven terrainClimb onto and off of equipmentEndure extreme climate conditionsHear, speak, see, and communicate effectivelyOperate two-handed tools and equipmentContinuously — Operating equipment, handling/grasping, repetitive movements Frequently — Sitting Occasionally — Lifting/carrying, pushing/pulling, driving, climbing, stooping/kneeling, reaching, walking, standing Never — Tree ascending/descending, confined spacesEnvironmental conditions:Continuously — Outdoor workFrequently — Temperature extremesOccasionally — Noise levelsRarely — Hazardous materials, air quality issuesNever — Confined spacesComments: Conditions vary by region. PPE required per OSHA and ANSI standards.Tools & equipment:Aerial lift trucks, dump trucks, ATVsChainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, chipperBlowers, pruners, rakes, winches, ropesHerbicide applicators, fuel, cones, signsCommunication devices, tablet computersManual and hydraulic toolsWhat we offer benefits:Competitive paySign-on BonusEmployee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)Paid training and certificationsHealth, dental, vision & HSA options401(k) +Paid time off and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)Our people promise:Our commitment to our people is key to the success of our business. We respect the differences between us, and we leverage those differences to create an environment where all employees feel welcome and fairly treated. We seek the best solutions possible by attracting and engaging a diverse workforce where all perspectives are sought out and valued.Lewis Tree Service is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to providing equal opportunity for both applicants and employees. Lewis Tree Service prohibits unlawful discrimination or harassment of employees and applicants based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, age (40+), religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic, all employment decisions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, compensation, training, apprenticeship, promotion, demotion, transfer, lay-off and termination, and all other terms and conditions of employment. Lewis Tree Service's practices and policies are administered under applicable federal, state, and local laws.