Top Trimmer

Join 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 a Top Trimmer

As a Top Trimmer at Lewis Tree Services, you’ll fill a specialized and highly skilled role necessary for utility vegetation management and provide support for tree trimming and line clearing operations serving utility companies and other clients.

• Perform advanced tree trimming and removal work while aloft or using aerial lift equipment.
• Support and lead job site and work zone set up, maintenance, and traffic control.
• Lead tree felling, rigging, and clearance activities near energized lines (vegetation and debris removal).
• Support and lead ground-level tree pruning and removal
• Support and direct crews in the absence of the Crew Leader.
• Apply herbicides in accordance with laws and company guidelines.
• Inspect, maintain/prepare, and operate work tools (Chainsaw), heavy equipment (Chippers), and other equipment as assigned (Relevant certifications apply).
• Operate/Drive, Load/Unload, and maintain trucks and other work vehicles.
• Ensure team and public safety by identifying hazards, maintaining clear communication, and providing support to fellow employees both on the ground and while aloft.
• Train and retrain crew members on climbing, trimming, and safety practices.
• Promote positive relations with customers and the public and assist the Crew Leader in gaining consent from property owners.
• Assist with job briefings, communicate new equipment specifications, and ensure all safety protocols are followed.
• Participate in emergency response and storm work as needed.

What You Bring

• Minimum two years of experience on tree crews and completion of all Top Trimmer-level qualifications.
• Possess general knowledge of tree identification, growth habits, and proper pruning techniques.
• Knows and understands the ANSI Z133 Safety Requirements and A300 Pruning Standards for arboricultural operations.
• Advanced in tree ascent/descent using ropes and a safety saddle, and skilled in aerial lift operations.
• Proficiency in electrical circuit basics and interpreting circuit maps.
• Top Trimmer Technical Knowledge and Skills Certification (or ability to complete).
• Valid driver’s license, CDL, and required medical certification.
• CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis).
• Ability to lead others, communicate effectively, and work independently.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable state, local, and federal regulations.

Physical Demands

Ability to:

• Lift 50 lbs. to shoulder height or higher
• Push or pull up to 50 lbs.
• Walk or hike up to one mile on uneven terrain
• Endure extreme climate variances (e.g., severe cold to high heat and humidity)
• Hear, speak, see, and communicate effectively
• Operate two-handed tools and equipment
• Ability to progress skill in tree ascent and descent
• Ability to work and maneuver at considerable heights during adverse weather conditions

Continuously – Standing, Walking, Handling/Grasping, Repetitive Movements, and Tree Ascending/Descending.

Frequently - Lifting/Carrying, Pushing/Pulling, Stooping/Kneeling, Reaching.

Occasionally – Driving, Climbing Stairs/Ladders.

Rarely – Sitting / Operating

Comments: You should expect variability in size, proportions, conditions, and weights of supplies, equipment, and work conditions.

Environmental Conditions:

Continuously - Outdoor work

Occasionally - Noise Levels

Frequently - Extreme Temperatures

Rarely - Contact with hazardous materials or air quality issues

Never - Confined Spaces

Comments: You should expect variability based on regional weather patterns. Personal protective equipment is required to be worn by OSHA and ANSI.

Tools & Equipment

Equipment may include:
- Aerial lift trucks, dump trucks, ATVs
- Chainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, chippers
- Blowers, pruners, rakes, winches, ropes
- Climbing gear: harness, chaps, spikes, hanger puller, manual and hydraulic pole saw, spikes.
- Sprayer applicators, pump sprayer, herbicide applicators, fuel, cones, signs
- Tablets and communication devices

What We Offer

Non-Union Benefits:

- Competitive pay
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
- Paid training and industry certifications
- Health, dental, vision & HSA options
- 401(k) +
- Paid time off and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Our DEI Commitment

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is key to the success of our business. We respect the differences among 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 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 by applicable federal, state, and local laws.