Ground Operations Crew Lead

Job Description

Job Description

Ground Operations Crew Lead

Joshua Tree Experts is seeking a motivated and safety-focused Ground Operations Crew Lead in Cranberry Twp., PA to manage and execute daily tree care projects. This unique role requires a strong working knowledge of arboriculture safety and grounds work, combined with proven leadership ability.

The mission of this role is to direct the logistics of the tree crew while performing essential grounds crew duties, ensuring daily production goals are met efficiently. This position offers significant leadership growth opportunities for motivated individuals.

Core Responsibilities

The Crew Lead's duties are split between direct, hands-on grounds work and supervisory management of the crew and equipment.

Crew Leadership and Management (Non-Climbing Focus)

• Job Planning & Scheduling : Review the daily work schedule, assign specific tasks and priorities to the grounds crew, and manage the workflow to meet production deadlines efficiently.

• Training & Coaching : Mentor and train junior Groundsmen on proper grounds safety, rigging techniques (from the ground), safe chipper operation, and efficient debris removal.

• Equipment Oversight : Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections (DOT) on trucks and equipment (e.g., chipper, stump grinder). Ensure all equipment is clean, maintained, and safely secured.

• Documentation : Complete required daily paperwork, including job reports, time tracking, and equipment maintenance logs accurately and promptly.

Field Operations (Hands-On Groundsman Duties)

• Chipping & Hauling : Operate and maintain chippers, load brush and debris efficiently, and ensure the work site is thoroughly cleaned upon job completion.

• Rigging Support : Assist climbers (where applicable) by managing ropes, installing rigging devices on the ground, and controlling lower equipment and lines during tree removals or heavy limb lowering.

• Equipment Operation : Safely operate chainsaws, stump grinders, and other necessary equipment for non-climbing tree care tasks (e.g., ground-level pruning, brush clearing).

• Traffic & Site Control : Set up and manage traffic and pedestrian control zones to ensure the safety of the public and the crew.

• Advanced Equipment Operation: Experience with the safe operation of heavier equipment such as skid steers is highly preferred. Must be proficient or have the ability to quickly learn to work effectively from various lifts, including both truck-mounted (bucket truck) and compact backyard lifts

Professional Growth & Development

We are committed to your long-term success and career advancement in the green industry.

• Certifications : There are definite growth opportunities for those willing to advance their credentials. We encourage and support paths to becoming an ISA Certified Arborist, TCIA Safety Certified, or ISA Climbing Certified.

• Company Assistance : Company assistance is available to help you acquire these certifications and further your professional education.

• Safety Leadership : While there is a designated safety officer on the crew, showing aptitude for safety protocols allows for growth into future safety leadership roles.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Leadership Experience : Minimum 2+ years of experience in a groundsman, grounds crew lead, or foreman position in the tree care or heavy outdoor maintenance industry.

• Equipment Proficiency : Proven ability to safely operate and maintain chainsaws and brush chippers. Experience with bucket truck setup and ground control is a plus.

• Physical Stamina : Ability to perform rigorous physical labor, including lifting 50+ lbs repeatedly, bending, stooping, and working outdoors in all weather conditions.

• Licensing : Valid Driver's License; CDL (Class B) or ability to obtain one is a strong advantage.

NOTE: This is a dedicated ground operations and leadership role and does not require tree climbing experience.