Crew Lead - Tree Climber

Job Description

Job Description

Lead Tree Climber

Parent Company: United Services Northwest

Hiring For: Washington Tree Services

Location: Serving King, Snohomish, Pierce, and Island Counties

Employment: Full-time

About Us

United Services Northwest is a family of locally owned service companies providing tree care, landscaping, construction, and more throughout Western Washington. Our tree division, Washington Tree Services, is dedicated to safe, professional, and high-quality tree work for both residential and commercial clients.

We’re looking for an experienced Lead Tree Climber to join our team and take on a leadership role in complex removals, pruning, and rigging operations. This is a hands-on position with opportunities for growth, training, and advancement.

What You’ll Do

• Lead climbing operations for tree removals, pruning, and maintenance.
• Perform advanced rigging, roping, and aerial work using industry-standard practices.
• Direct and mentor ground crew members to ensure safe, efficient job execution.
• Operate chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts as needed.
• Conduct site safety checks and enforce proper use of PPE and climbing techniques.
• Communicate with project managers and clients on scope of work and progress.
• Ensure compliance with ANSI and OSHA standards for tree care.

What We’re Looking For

• Previous experience required: Minimum 3 years as a tree climber.
• Strong technical skills in rigging, removals, and aerial pruning.
• Familiarity with modern climbing systems (saddle, SRT, DRT).
• Ability to lead and mentor a crew on the job site.
• Valid driver’s license required; CDL Class B preferred but not required.
• ISA Certified Arborist or Tree Worker Climber Specialist preferred — if not currently certified, must be open to obtaining ISA Certification within the first 6 months of employment (company will assist with training and testing).

What We Offer

• Competitive pay (based on experience and certifications).
• Year-round work with steady hours.
• Safety-first culture with high-quality equipment and training.
• Opportunities for professional growth and ISA certification support.
• Career advancement within a growing family of companies under United Services Northwest.

Our Companies

United Services Northwest A growing portfolio of home and commercial service brands serving communities across Washington State.

Washington Tree Services Full-service tree care including removals, pruning, hazard mitigation, stump grinding, and permit support.

Washington Construction Residential and commercial construction services including remodeling, additions, framing, and general contracting.

Washington Pest Services Preventive and corrective pest management for homes and businesses, using family- and pet-conscious protocols.

Washington Roofing Roof installations, repairs, inspections, and emergency leak response for residential and commercial properties.

Washington Firewood Sustainably sourced, processed, and delivered seasoned firewood and kindling—bulk and subscription options available.

Washington Landscaping Landscape design and installation, grading, sod and seed, irrigation, hardscapes, and seasonal maintenance.

Washington Pressure Washing Exterior cleaning services including siding, driveways, decks, patios, and commercial properties.

Washington Christmas Lighting Professional holiday lighting design, installation, maintenance, and takedown using commercial-grade materials.

Washington Snow Removal Residential and commercial snow plowing, de-icing, and sidewalk clearing with 24/7 storm response.

Why Work Across Our Brands

Working across the United Services Northwest family of companies gives you exposure to multiple service lines, consistent year-round work, and opportunities to grow your skills beyond a single trade. Our shared systems, standards, and leadership team allow you to build a long-term career while supporting well-run, locally trusted brands throughout Washington State.