Arbor (Tree) Foreman

The Arbor Foreman physically implements all arbor ground and climbing activities and procedures established by company policy and with specific direction from the Production or Operations Manager. Identifies opportunities for improvements in production, cost efficiencies and safety in all aspects of the job, while emphasizing and exceeding our clients’ expectations. The Associate works to provide extensive support to crew members on a daily basis ensuring the fulfillment of the company vision, goals and strategy. Supports the Operations Manager in the training of all Associates in accepted arboriculture practices. Supervises new and existing Associates in methods and techniques specific to RGS.  Consistently enforces  and complies with  all company safety standards, safety policies, procedures and regulatory issues.

DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Receives daily job cards from supervisor or sales representatives and discusses any special instructions that may apply.
• Supervises and directs a crew of groundsmen and climbers to prepare equipment, tools and supplies necessary for the day’s work.
• Instructs crew of job assignments upon arrival at the job site, and supervises their progress so that work is completed efficiently and timely.
• Notifies client of presence on the property and once work is complete.
• Observes all safety rules strictly and helps enforce that fellow workers observe all safety practices including utilizing required safety equipment.
• Uses all equipment and performs all jobs safely, making accident prevention a part of daily conduct.
• Assists crew members in all aspects of daily activities and maintains the leadership role.
• Safeguards employees and the public from hazards in and around work area, and stays in frequent voice communication with workers on the ground.
• Inspects completed work for compliance with job card specifications.
• Maintains accurate records of equipment and materials used including taking notes on the job order for the client.
• Supervises the appropriate use of Company tools and equipment and ensures they are secured after each use.
• Directs the cleanup of the job site and ensures all equipment and supplies are secured on the truck.
• Performs routine maintenance on equipment and informs supervisor of damaged equipment.
• Observes and practices climbing and tree maintenance skills in a continued effort to improve own professional skills.
• Climbs to heights of at least 75 feet.
• Operates bucket truck, chipper, chipper truck, stump grinder, all types of chain saws and other tree-related equipment.
• Uses hand lines to lower limbs and equipment.
• Ensures that appropriate rest periods and meal periods are taken within company requirements.
• Observes the Company’s policies and procedures including dress standards, accurate time sheet payroll reporting and all related job records.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Proficient knowledge and understanding of current arboricultural trends and practices of the landscaping industry.
• Minimum of five (5) years climbing experience with a tree care company.
• Effective administrative, organizational and time management skills with attention to detail.
• Must be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of all knots, ropes and rigging devices used in tree trimming and removal operations.
• Must be able to apply principles of logical thinking to define problems and initiate appropriate course of action.
• Knowledge of safe work practices, OSHA requirements, ANSI guidelines and any laws pertaining to arbor care and maintenance.
• Knowledgeable of the daily maintenance and safe operation of all equipment used in tree care.
• Meets qualifications of subordinate positions on the crew.
• Must be able to follow written or verbal orders.
• Must be able to delegate work and accept responsibility.
• Must be punctual and reliable.
• Ability to efficiently and accurately use an electronic hand held device to record Associate time worked.

REQUIRED LICNESES/CERTIFICATION

• Must possess a valid California Driver’s License and auto insurance.
• ISA Certified Tree Worker.
• Must have valid first aid certification.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• High School diploma required or General Educational Development (GED).
• Minimum of five years supervisory experience in arboriculture.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Constant standing, sitting, walking, stooping, bending, twisting, kneeling, squatting, traversing uneven ground, grasping (tools), power grasping (tools and equipment), reaching, climbing, frequent pushing or pulling, and stretching. Getting in and out of vehicles including vehicle cab and bed multiple times a day. Lifting, carrying and manipulating objects up to 50 pounds for varying periods of time.
• Must be able to wear all personal protective equipment according to company Safety Health and Environmental Policies, Industry Related ANSI Safety Requirements and OSHA Regulations.
• Must be able to hear verbal instructions from a distance.
• Must be able to work outdoors under varying and sometimes adverse weather conditions.

WORK CONDITIONS

• Working conditions are outdoors with exposure to the following: Hot and cold temperatures, sudden changes in temperatures, varying levels of noise, slippery surfaces, rain, dust/dirt, fumes, wind, uneven ground and landscaped slopes.

EQUIPMENT/MACHINERY

• Chippers, chainsaw, all manner of climbing gear, including but not limited to: climbing saddles and harnesses, climbing spurs, fliplines and lanyards, friction hitches, carabineer and clips, rope, stump grinders and back-pack blowers.
• A wide range of hand tools including but not limited to: loppers, shears, pruners, hand saw, leaf rake, pole pruner, pole saw, push broom and shovel.

BENEFITS

• Sick Pay
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation
• 401(k) Plan
• Health Insurance
• Dental
• Vision
• Company Paid Life Insurance
• Multiple Reporting Locations

This job description is intended to state the essential function of the position and to be an accurate reflection of the current job, but it is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, efforts, requirements or working conditions associated with the job. Management reserves the right to assign other duties and tasks and revise the job as needs of the Company, property or position change.  

RGS Landscape & Arbor Care is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, creed, age (over 40), disability, mental and physical, sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, and military and veteran status or any other legally protected status.