Rudi Atkins, O Fallon, IL

Crane Operator (Tree Removal)
Tree care crews in arboriculture companies perform essential work involving tree pruning, maintenance, and removal while prioritizing safety, efficiency, and proper tree health practices. Positions often require physical fitness, ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, and adherence to industry standards (e.g., ANSI Z133). Common requirements include a valid driver’s license (CDL preferred for equipment operators), willingness to obtain certifications (e.g., ISA Certified Arborist or Tree Worker), and commitment to safety protocols including PPE usage.

Crane operators specialize in using cranes for large-scale, precise tree removals, often in confined or high-risk areas.

Key Responsibilities:
• Operate cranes (e.g., knuckle boom or grapple saw) to lift and remove large tree sections safely.
• Coordinate closely with climbers/ground crew for rigging attachments and cut signals.
• Inspect crane daily, perform basic maintenance, and ensure stable setup (e.g., outriggers).
• Assess loads, balance, and site hazards to prevent accidents.
• Support overall job efficiency and cleanup.

Qualifications:
• 3+ years crane operation experience; NCCCO or state crane certification required.
• Tree care industry experience preferred; CDL mandatory.
• Strong communication for hand signals and team coordination.

Aerial Bucket Operator
Tree care crews in arboriculture companies perform essential work involving tree pruning, maintenance, and removal while prioritizing safety, efficiency, and proper tree health practices. Positions often require physical fitness, ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, and adherence to industry standards (e.g., ANSI Z133). Common requirements include a valid driver’s license (CDL preferred for equipment operators), willingness to obtain certifications (e.g., ISA Certified Arborist or Tree Worker), and commitment to safety protocols including PPE usage.

Bucket operators use truck-mounted aerial lifts to access tree canopies for pruning and removal tasks.

Key Responsibilities:
• Safely operate bucket trucks/aerial lifts to reach branches for trimming, pruning, and section removal.
• Perform technical cuts while elevated; coordinate with ground crew for rigging and debris handling.
• Position equipment on job sites, inspect lifts daily, and ensure safe operation around hazards (e.g., power lines).
• Assist in ground operations and site cleanup as needed.
• Conduct or support aerial rescues.

Qualifications:
• Experience operating aerial devices required; CDL Class B often needed.
• Knowledge of tree care practices and safety; ISA Aerial Lift Specialist certification advantageous.

Tree Climber
Tree care crews in arboriculture companies perform essential work involving tree pruning, maintenance, and removal while prioritizing safety, efficiency, and proper tree health practices. Positions often require physical fitness, ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, and adherence to industry standards (e.g., ANSI Z133). Common requirements include a valid driver’s license (CDL preferred for equipment operators), willingness to obtain certifications (e.g., ISA Certified Arborist or Tree Worker), and commitment to safety protocols including PPE usage.

Climbers perform aerial tree work using ropes, saddles, and harnesses for precise pruning and removals in areas inaccessible by buckets or cranes.

Key Responsibilities:
• Climb trees safely to prune, remove deadwood, thin crowns, reduce weight, or perform full removals.
• Use chainsaws and rigging systems aloft; set up and manage ropes for lowering sections.
• Assess tree structure and risks while working at heights.
• Assist ground crew with debris removal and site cleanup when not climbing.
• Participate in rescues and emergency procedures if needed.

Qualifications:
• Experience in technical climbing and rigging required; certifications like ISA Tree Worker Climber Specialist preferred.
• Strong knowledge of pruning standards and safety; ability to work efficiently in challenging conditions.

Tree Crew Member/Groundsman
Tree care crews in arboriculture companies perform essential work involving tree pruning, maintenance, and removal while prioritizing safety, efficiency, and proper tree health practices. Positions often require physical fitness, ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, and adherence to industry standards (e.g., ANSI Z133). Common requirements include a valid driver’s license (CDL preferred for equipment operators), willingness to obtain certifications (e.g., ISA Certified Arborist or Tree Worker), and commitment to safety protocols including PPE usage.

Ground crew members provide essential support on the ground for tree pruning, removal, and maintenance operations.

Key Responsibilities:
• Drag and feed brush into chippers, haul debris, and clean job sites.
• Assist climbers, bucket operators, and crane teams with rigging, ropes, and lowering branches safely.
• Operate hand tools, chainsaws, and equipment like chippers under supervision.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and vehicles; ensure hazard-free work areas.
• Follow instructions from crew leaders and participate in job site safety briefings.

Qualifications:
• Entry-level position; experience in landscaping or tree care preferred but training provided.
• Physically demanding role requiring lifting heavy loads and working in teams.

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Pay/Wages | Pay based on experience. Commission Available.
How to Apply?
• Email: contact@rootsgrinding.com
• Phone: 618-402-9907
• Web Page: https://rootsgrinding.com/about/join-the-team