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Aerial Lift Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

W A Kendall and Company LLC

The Aerial Lift Trimmer is responsible for trimming, pruning, and removing trees with the aid of a bucket truck or other equipment or tools. 2-3 years previous professional experience operating an ...

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How much do aerial lift operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial lift operator in the United States is $18.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerial Lift Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerial Lift Operator, you need a solid understanding of equipment operation, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with specialized certification or training. Familiarity with various aerial lift models, safety harnesses, and compliance with OSHA standards is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe, efficient work at heights and to prevent workplace accidents.

What are some common safety challenges faced by Aerial Lift Operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Aerial Lift Operators often encounter safety challenges such as unstable ground conditions, overhead obstacles, and changing weather. To address these, operators should always conduct thorough pre-operation inspections, assess the terrain before use, and ensure all safety harnesses and equipment are properly utilized. Regular communication with ground crew and adherence to established safety protocols significantly reduce risk and help create a safer work environment.

What is an Aerial Lift Operator?

An Aerial Lift Operator is a trained professional who is responsible for safely operating aerial lifts, such as boom lifts, scissor lifts, or cherry pickers. These workers use specialized equipment to elevate themselves or others to perform tasks at heights, often in construction, maintenance, or warehouse settings. Operators must understand safety protocols, equipment controls, and site-specific hazards to prevent accidents. Certification and ongoing training are often required to ensure they operate lifts safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Aerial Lift Operator vs Boom Lift Operator?

AspectAerial Lift OperatorBoom Lift Operator
CertificationsOSHA certification, equipment-specific trainingOSHA certification, equipment-specific training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, maintenance, warehousingConstruction sites, maintenance, industrial settings
Industry UsageConstruction, utilities, warehousingConstruction, industrial, maintenance

Both Aerial Lift Operators and Boom Lift Operators require similar certifications and work in comparable environments. The main difference lies in the equipment they operate; aerial lifts include various types like scissor lifts, while boom lifts are a specific type of aerial lift with extendable arms. Understanding these distinctions helps employers and workers choose the right role for their skills and project needs.

More about Aerial Lift Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Aerial Lift Operator jobs? Cities with the most Aerial Lift Operator job openings:
What states have the most Aerial Lift Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Aerial Lift Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aerial Lift Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aerial Lift Operator jobs are:
Aerial Lift Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Lift Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 7% Full Time, 89% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 80% Physical, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,182 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
Aerial Lift Trimmer - Lexington, SC

Aerial Lift Trimmer - Lexington, SC

Xylem Tree Experts

Lexington, SC • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Xylem Tree Experts rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 28 rated gardening and landscaping

Job description

The Aerial Lift Trimmer is responsible for trimming, pruning, and removing trees with the aid of a bucket truck or other equipment or tools. At least two years previous professional experience as an aerial lift trimmer is required to be considered for this role. Driver's license also required; CDL preferred.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Always follow and help enforce safe practices and rules
  • Assist in preparing truck and materials needed for each day at General Foreperson's direction
  • Perform professional tree maintenance activities as directed by General Foreperson
  • Clear and trim trees and brush away from utility lines; remove branches and tree material
  • Clean up and dispose of all debris
  • Maintain and keep track of all tools and equipment used in daily operations
  • Constantly observe and practice climbing and tree maintenance skills in a continued effort to improve your own professional skills
  • Be ready and willing to assist other crew members in all aspects of daily activities
  • Safeguard employees and public from hazards in and around the work area by enforcing safe job practices, keeping work area clean and orderly, and staying in frequent voice communication with co-workers
  • Perform duties for storm work as needed

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
Aerial Lift Trimmers have no direct reports.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Prior experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries preferred; previous aerial lift experience preferred
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
High School diploma or education equivalent preferred
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • 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 identify tree species
  • Must be familiar with electrical hazards and appropriate operating procedures when in proximity to electrical conductors and aerial techniques in the event of an emergency aloft
  • Must be able to work and maneuver at considerable heights under varying and adverse weather conditions
  • Must possess physical strength and agility, good balance, good depth perception and the ability to hear verbal instructions from a distance.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain first-aid certification and CPR
  • Must be able to administer and implement emergency rescue techniques, including tree rescue and all applicable first aid techniques
  • Must be able to quickly remove yourself from a potential danger area
  • Must be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Must be able to travel out of town for storm restoration work when needed

Position requires employee to be able to pass a background check and drug screen as required for this job.
Work authorization requirements:
Must meet I-9 requirements.
Affirmative Action/EEO statement: Xylem Tree Experts and Kendall Vegetation Services provide equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, obligations, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.
Benefits Offered:
This is a full-time position that offers health insurance benefits for medical, vision, and dental, as well as the option for enrollment in a 401K.
AI Usage Disclaimer:
As part of our commitment to efficiency and innovation, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools during the recruiting and onboarding processes. These tools assist with tasks such as resume screening, interview scheduling, and communication. All decisions regarding hiring and employment are ultimately made by our human team. If you have questions or concerns about this process, please contact our HR department.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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