Tree Care Groundman

About This Role

Working as a Groundman, you will support tree care crews with residential and commercial operations throughout Rhode Island. This role involves assisting with tree pruning and removal, handling brush and wood, feeding brush chippers, maintaining a safe work zone, and keeping job sites clean and organized. It requires physical stamina, effective communication, attention to safety, and the ability to work as part of a team in an outdoor environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist climbers, arborists, and crew leaders with daily tree-care operations
• Gather, drag, stack, and organize brush, limbs, and other tree debris
• Operate brush chippers only after receiving required training and authorization, following company safety procedures
• Assist with ground-level cutting and chainsaw operations
• Set up and maintain designated drop zones, work areas, barriers, and traffic or pedestrian controls as assigned
• Maintain clear communication with crew members before, during, and after cutting and lowering operations
• Keep clear of falling objects and suspended limbs and never enter a drop zone without authorization
• Maintain clean, orderly, and safe job sites, including removal of debris and protection of customer property
• Inspect assigned tools and equipment before use and promptly report defects, damage, hazards, and unsafe conditions
• Wear required personal protective equipment and comply with all applicable safety procedures
• Report injuries, near misses, and unsafe work conditions promptly
• Perform other related duties consistent with training, qualifications, and safe work practices
• Complete required safety orientation and task-specific training before operating equipment or performing hazardous duties
• Follow chipper operating procedures, including safe feeding practices and keeping clear of hazardous moving parts
• Operate chainsaws and other powered equipment only when trained, authorized, and properly equipped
• Maintain awareness of falling limbs, suspended loads, moving equipment, traffic, and electrical hazards
• Follow all instructions regarding drop zones and communication with workers in trees or aerial lifts
• Stop work and notify the supervisor when conditions become unsafe
• Never perform electrical line-clearance work or other specialized hazardous work without the required qualifications and authorization

Requirements

• Dependability, punctuality, and a willingness to learn
• Ability to follow instructions and communicate clearly with crew members
• Commitment to workplace safety and compliance with established procedures
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions