Equipment Operator Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

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 an Equipment Operator

• Operate heavy equipment per Lewis policy and manufacturer guidelines
• Safeguard equipment and ensure proper maintenance and inspection
• Identify and mark hazards in the work area
• Promote safety for colleagues and the public
• Maintain tools, equipment, and work vehicles
• Report equipment issues and incidents immediately
• Support customer and public relations
• Drive and operate trucks and other assigned equipment
• Participate in job briefings and site preparation
• Remove vegetation and debris (e.g., lifting logs, dragging brush)
• Operate chainsaws and similar equipment after demonstrating proficiency
• Load/unload trucks and machinery
• Hike difficult terrain while carrying tools and equipment
• Apply herbicide in compliance with regulations
• Set up traffic control zones and direct traffic
• Travel frequently, including overnight stays
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Qualifications

What You Bring:

• Understanding of policies and procedures for Equipment Operators
• Relevant licenses/certifications to operate heavy equipment
• General knowledge of trees and arboriculture techniques (if involved in tree work)
• Completion of Equipment Operator Technical Knowledge Certification
• Basic knowledge of electrical circuits and ability to read circuit maps
• Herbicide applicator certification and licensing
• Valid driver's license, CDL, and medical certification (as required)
• CPR and First Aid certification (provided by Lewis)
• Compliance with all applicable laws

Physical Demands

Ability to:

• Lift up to 50 lbs. to shoulder height
• Push or pull a minimum of 50 lbs.
• Walk or hike up to one mile on uneven terrain
• Climb onto and off of equipment
• Endure extreme climate conditions
• Hear, speak, see, and communicate effectively
• Operate two-handed tools and equipment

Environmental Conditions

Continuously — Outdoor work Frequently — Temperature extremes Occasionally — Noise levels Rarely — Hazardous materials, air quality issues Never — Confined spaces

Comments: Conditions vary by region. PPE required per OSHA and ANSI standards.

Tools & Equipment

Equipment may include:

• Aerial lift trucks, dump trucks, ATVs
• Chainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, chipper
• Blowers, pruners, rakes, winches, ropes
• Herbicide applicators, fuel, cones, signs
• Communication devices, tablet computers
• Manual and hydraulic tools

What We Offer

Non-Union Benefits:

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

People Promise

Our People Promise

Our commitment to Our People is key to the success of our business. We respect the differences between 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 out 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 under applicable federal, state, and local laws.