"Tree Worker"

Tree Worker

Company: Virginia Tech

Job Location: Blacksburg, 24061

Category: Grounds and Landscaping

Type: Full-Time

Job Description

Reporting to the Field Arborist, the Tree Worker performs a variety of skilled tasks in the pruning, removal, installation, and treatment of trees on campus grounds. Attends bi-weekly arboriculture technique and safety training and field exercises for tree workers. Utilizes appropriate PPE and complies with industry safety standards on job sites and limits risk during tree care operations. Maintains current safety credentials required and hosted by EHS. Executes tree care work orders for customer requests, routine maintenance, emergency response, and plant health care programming. Implements proper pruning techniques including removal cuts that do not damage the branch collar and reduction cuts to the appropriate aspect ratio. Implements simple rigging techniques including standard tree care knots (running/standing bowline, clove hitch, timber hitch, and alpine butterfly), appropriate rigging point and redirect selection, and port-a-wrap installation and operation. Participates in job briefings before every job and establishes and maintains job site safety zones (drop zones) for all operations. Locates trees in the campus tree inventory for work planning and identifies trees in the field before job briefing begins. Communicates work order status to direct supervisor and accurately records labor hours per work order. Operates various equipment such as farm type tractors, stump grinders and chippers as well as various bucket trucks and single axle dump trucks in a safe manner that limits risk and protects campus assets. Inspects all PPE, tools, ropes, equipment, implements, and vehicles for needed maintenance and replacement. Uses hand and power tools such as chain saws, hedge trimmers, blowers, shovels and rakes in a safe manner that limits risk and protects campus assets.

Required Qualifications

• Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class B with air brake endorsement, and the ability to obtain and maintain removal of the manual transmission restriction within 6 months of employment.
• Working knowledge of the ANSI A300 tree care standards and ANSI Z133 safety requirements.
• Demonstrable competence implementing proper pruning techniques including removal cuts that do not damage the branch collar and reduction cuts to the appropriate aspect ratio and implementing simple rigging techniques including standard tree care knots (running/standing bowline, clove hitch, timber hitch, and alpine butterfly), appropriate rigging point and redirect selection, and port-a-wrap installation and operation.
• Minimum 3 years experience in the tree care industry with specialization in pruning, removal, and plant health care.
• Must be able to cope with heights which may typically reach 50-70 feet above ground.
• Ability to apply safety standards and procedures in the operation of equipment and performance of work tasks including verification that utility locates have cleared prior to work commencing when required.
• Must be able to perform heavy manual labor, including safely moving and handling greater than 50 pounds; climb and work from elevated work stations such as ladders and scaffolds; work for long periods of time sitting, standing, walking, reaching, bending, pushing/pulling; and work in all types of weather conditions, including extreme temperatures.

Preferred Qualifications

• ISA Certified Arborist.
• VDACS Pesticide Applicator License.
• Experience in a large commercial, public sector, or educational setting.

Pay Band: 2

Overtime Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type: Regular

Salary Information: $42,000 - $47,000 (commensurate with experience)

Hours per week: 40

Review Date: October 13, 2025

Additional Information

Licensure and Certification required for Entry into Position:

• Valid Class B CDL with air brake endorsement and the ability to obtain and maintain removal of the manual transmission restriction within 6 months of employment.
• Must have a driver's license and criminal background check.
• Work hours are normally Monday - Friday 7:30a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
• During periods of inclement weather, emergency situations or for special projects, may work a modified schedule and additional hours to meet the needs of the department.
• This position is designated as "Emergency Personnel" and employee must be available to work during emergency situations (including inclement weather, call-backs, etc.) as directed by supervisor or lead. May be required to work extended shifts, additional hours and overtime to meet the needs of the department; to include being physically on site if deemed necessary.
• Must wear employer provided uniforms as instructed by supervisor or lead. As situation dictates, must wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

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