The Groundperson position is a support and technician level job that entails close observance of all safety issues involved in tree work as well as skills that support the work performed by the Trimmer, allowing a smooth flow of productivity at the jobsite.
The Groundperson's duties include reporting to the Foreperson, assisting in tree removal operations, collecting and piling branches, maintaining tools and equipment, and ensuring hazard-free work areas. The Groundperson should be able to work with a variety of crew members. This position requires use of chainsaws, chipper, and other equipment.
The Groundperson will be the point person preparing to load the appropriate tools for specific jobs for departure from the shop. This person will maintain areas and equipment on the jobsite and perform tasks such as those listed below.
An outstanding Groundperson should be able to carry out instructions efficiently and complete all maintenance tasks to the highest standard.
Responsibilities include:
- Understand and carry out verbal and written instructions.
- Be responsive to visual cues and hand signals from the Trimmer and act promptly with ground support.
- Use the appropriate gear and observe safety protocols.
- Reporting any issues or safety hazards to the Foreperson or other relevant parties.
- Adhere to company and environmental regulations at all times.
- Help control the flow of traffic around job site by using hand signals, signs, and barricades.
- Complete all duties in compliance with safety policies and OSHA safety standards.
- Carry out all maintenance duties allocated by the Foreperson.
- Inspect equipment and tools and perform repairs and maintenance when required.
- Ensure all tools, equipment, and materials are well maintained and accounted for prior to and after completion of each job.
- Assist Trimmer with tree removals, pruning, and debris disposal.
- Safely use tools and equipment (chipper, chainsaws and stump grinder, etc.) to carry out tasks.
- Ensure all sites are kept clean and free of hazards.
- Clean up limbs and branches as they are brought down.
- Line up branches and pile appropriately for loading into the chipper.
- Keep tools in the staging area and safe zone.
- Assure that ropes are kept clear at all times.
- Placing road sign in a visible location.
- Filling equipment with gasoline or diesel while being mindful of safe handling of fuels.
- Perform basic job cleanup and restoration such as raking, seeding, shoveling, etc.
- Operate hand equipment including but not limited to chainsaws, rakes and blowers.
- Maintain a high level of quality in all work performed.
- All other duties as assigned by Foreperson.
The Groundperson should also have sound knowledge of:
- Chain saw blade sharpening and maintenance
- Techniques and the proper use of tools.
- Tying and specific uses for tree-industry knots.
- General information about boom operations
- Stump grinder and chipper operation and maintenance
- Riggings used in tree work such as rope breaks and speed lines
Requirements
- Valid driver’s license with good driving record. Class B CDL must be obtained within 90 days of hire.
- Excellent balance and depth perception.
- Superb communication skills.
- A positive attitude.
- Should be available following storms and other weather events that require emergency tree removal work
- Maintain good attendance and show up to work on time.
- Must be safety conscious.
- Ability to complete labor-intensive work outdoors with exposure to a variety of weather conditions including extreme heat and cold.
- Ability to navigate on uneven terrain, stand, walk, kneel, bend, crouch, reach, lift and carry up to 50 lbs. on a regular basis.
Preferred
- Experience with flagging
- Previous work experience as a Groundperson or similar
- High school diploma or GED.
Compensation and Benefits
• $15-$20/hour based on experience