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First Ascent Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Advanced in tree ascent/descent using ropes and a safety saddle, and skilled in aerial lift ... CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis). * Ability to lead others, communicate effectively ...

Job Posting Title Top Trimmer

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Advanced in tree ascent/descent using ropes and a safety saddle, and skilled in aerial lift ... CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis). * Ability to lead others, communicate effectively ...

Job Posting Title Top Trimmer

Milwaukee, WI

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Advanced in tree ascent/descent using ropes and a safety saddle, and skilled in aerial lift ... CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis). * Ability to lead others, communicate effectively ...

Advanced in tree ascent/descent using ropes and a safety saddle, and skilled in aerial lift ... CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis). * Ability to lead others, communicate effectively ...

CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis). * Acquire and keep the required training and ... Progress skill in tree ascent and descent * Work and maneuver at considerable heights during ...

CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis). * Acquire and keep the required training and ... Progress skill in tree ascent and descent * Work and maneuver at considerable heights during ...

First Ascent information

What is the difference between First Ascent vs Rock Climber?

AspectFirst AscentRock Climber
Required CredentialsTraining in climbing techniques, safety, and sometimes certificationsSimilar training; certifications vary by level and location
Work EnvironmentClimbing gyms, outdoor cliffs, adventure parksOutdoor cliffs, mountains, indoor climbing gyms
Industry UsageClimbing competitions, outdoor expeditions, adventure tourismRecreational climbing, competitions, outdoor expeditions

First Ascent refers to the act of being the first person to successfully climb a route or mountain, often requiring specialized skills and sometimes certifications. Rock Climber is a broader term for anyone engaging in climbing activities, whether recreationally or competitively. While both roles involve climbing skills and similar environments, First Ascent emphasizes pioneering new routes, whereas Rock Climber focuses on general climbing activities.

What are some common challenges faced by First Ascent guides when leading beginner climbers, and how can they be addressed?

First Ascent Guides often work with climbers who are new to the sport and may feel anxious about heights or unfamiliar equipment. A key challenge is balancing safety with encouragement, ensuring that participants learn proper techniques while building confidence. Guides must communicate instructions clearly, monitor group dynamics, and adapt their teaching style to varying skill levels. Building rapport and fostering a supportive environment helps new climbers overcome fears and enjoy a positive experience.

What is a First Ascent guide?

First Ascent guides are professional outdoor experts who lead and assist climbers, hikers, or adventurers during their initial attempt to reach the summit of a mountain or complete a challenging climbing route. These guides provide safety instruction, technical support, and local knowledge to ensure a successful and safe ascent. Their expertise is especially valuable for those attempting new or difficult climbs, often referred to as 'first ascents,' where there is little to no prior information about the route. They also help with logistics, equipment selection, and risk management throughout the journey.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Ascent guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Ascent Guide, you need advanced climbing skills, risk assessment abilities, and certifications such as Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and professional climbing guide credentials. Familiarity with technical gear like ropes, anchors, navigation devices, and route-mapping software is essential. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help manage group dynamics and respond to unexpected challenges. These skills ensure safety, successful expedition outcomes, and a positive experience for all participants in demanding and unpredictable environments.

What are popular job titles related to First Ascent jobs in Wisconsin?

For First Ascent jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Ascent jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for First Ascent jobs in Wisconsin are:

Infographic showing various First Ascent job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Join a Company That Grows People

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!

What You’ll Do as a Top Trimmer

As a Trimmer at Lewis Tree Services, you’ll fill a specialized and highly skilled role necessary for utility vegetation management and provide support for tree trimming and line clearing operations serving utility companies and other clients.

  • Perform advanced tree trimming and removal work while aloft or using aerial lift equipment.
  • Support and lead job site and work zone set up, maintenance, and traffic control.
  • Lead tree felling, rigging, and clearance activities near energized lines (vegetation and debris removal).
  • Support and lead ground-level tree pruning and removal
  • Support and direct crews in the absence of the Crew Leader.
  • Apply herbicides in accordance with laws and company guidelines.
  • Inspect, maintain/prepare, and operate work tools (Chainsaw), heavy equipment (Chippers), and other equipment as assigned (Relevant certifications apply).
  • Operate/Drive, Load/Unload, and maintain trucks and other work vehicles.
  • Ensure team and public safety by identifying hazards, maintaining clear communication, and providing support to fellow employees both on the ground and while aloft.
  • Train and retrain crew members on climbing, trimming, and safety practices.
  • Promote positive relations with customers and the public and assist the Crew Leader in gaining consent from property owners.
  • Assist with job briefings, communicate new equipment specifications, and ensure all safety protocols are followed.
  • Participate in emergency response and storm work as needed.

What You Bring
  • Minimum two years of experience on tree crews and completion of all Top Trimmer-level qualifications.
  • Possess general knowledge of tree identification, growth habits, and proper pruning techniques.
  • Knows and understands the ANSI Z133 Safety Requirements and A300 Pruning Standards for arboricultural operations.
  • Advanced in tree ascent/descent using ropes and a safety saddle, and skilled in aerial lift operations.
  • Proficiency in electrical circuit basics and interpreting circuit maps.
  • Top Trimmer Technical Knowledge and Skills Certification (or ability to complete).
  • Valid driver’s license, CDL, and required medical certification.
  • CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis).
  • Ability to lead others, communicate effectively, and work independently.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable state, local, and federal regulations.
Physical Demands

Ability to:

  • Lift 50 lbs. to shoulder height or higher
  • Push or pull up to 50 lbs.
  • Walk or hike up to one mile on uneven terrain
  • Endure extreme climate variances (e.g., severe cold to high heat and humidity)
  • Hear, speak, see, and communicate effectively
  • Operate two-handed tools and equipment
  • Ability to progress skill in tree ascent and descent
  • Ability to work and maneuver at considerable heights during adverse weather conditions

Continuously â€“ Standing, Walking, Handling/Grasping, Repetitive Movements, and Tree Ascending/Descending.

Frequently - Lifting/Carrying, Pushing/Pulling, Stooping/Kneeling, Reaching.

Occasionally â€“ Driving, Climbing Stairs/Ladders.

Rarely â€“ Sitting / Operating

Comments: You should expect variability in size, proportions, conditions, and weights of supplies, equipment, and work conditions.

Environmental Conditions:

Continuously - Outdoor work

Occasionally - Noise Levels

Frequently - Extreme Temperatures

Rarely - Contact with hazardous materials or air quality issues

Never - Confined Spaces

Comments: You should expect variability based on regional weather patterns.  Personal protective equipment is required to be worn by OSHA and ANSI.

Tools & Equipment
  • Equipment may include:
  • Aerial lift trucks, dump trucks, ATVs
  • Chainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, chippers
  • Blowers, pruners, rakes, winches, ropes
  • Climbing gear: harness, chaps, spikes, hanger puller, manual and hydraulic pole saw, spikes.
  • Sprayer applicators, pump sprayer, herbicide applicators, fuel, cones, signs
  • Tablets and communication devices
What We Offer

Union Benefits:

  • Competitive pay
  • Paid training and certifications.
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • Local 2150 Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

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.


Únase a una empresa que fomenta el crecimiento de las personas

En Lewis, no solo podamos árboles, construimos un futuro. Como la segunda empresa de mayor tamaño de gestión de servicios y vegetación en Norteamérica y una orgullosa empresa propiedad de sus empleados, creemos que cada persona de nuestro equipo es importante. Cuando se incorpora a Lewis, no solo comienza un trabajo, invierte en su futuro.

Por qué le encantará trabajar aquí

  • ¡Experimente un maravilloso entorno al aire libre mientras trabaja en la naturaleza, no quede atrapado detrás de un escritorio!
  • Eleve su carrera profesional con nosotros. ¡Priorizamos la capacitación y las promociones internas!
  • ¡Únase a un equipo vibrante que es pionero en seguridad, valora su opinión y fomenta un fuerte sentido de la camaradería

Sus funciones como Podador Especializado en Alturas

Como Podador Especializado en Alturas en Lewis Tree Services, desempeñará una función especializada y altamente calificada necesaria para la gestión de vegetación de servicios públicos y brindará apoyo para las operaciones de poda de árboles y despeje de líneas eléctricas al servicio de empresas de servicios públicos y otros clientes.

  • Realizar trabajos avanzados de poda y remoción de árboles mientras está en el aire o utiliza equipos de plataformas aéreas.
  • Apoyar y dirigir la instalación, el mantenimiento y el control del tráfico en el lugar y la zona de trabajo.
  • Dirigir actividades de tala, aparejo y despeje de árboles cerca de líneas eléctricas (eliminación de vegetación y escombros).
  • Apoyar y dirigir la poda y extracción de árboles a nivel del suelo.
  • Apoyar y dirigir a las cuadrillas en ausencia del jefe de cuadrilla.
  • Aplicar herbicidas de acuerdo con las leyes y las pautas de la empresa.
  • Inspeccionar, mantener/preparar y operar herramientas de trabajo (motosierras), equipos pesados (astilladoras) y otros equipos según se le asigne (se aplican certificaciones pertinentes).
  • Operar/conducir, cargar/descargar y mantener camiones y otros vehículos de trabajo.
  • Garantizar la seguridad del equipo y el público mediante la identificación de peligros, una comunicación clara y apoyo a los compañeros de trabajo tanto en tierra como en el aire.
  • Capacitar y volver a capacitar a los miembros de la cuadrilla sobre las prácticas de escalada, poda y seguridad.
  • Promover relaciones positivas con los clientes y el público, y ayudar al líder del equipo a obtener el consentimiento de los propietarios.
  • Ayudar con las instrucciones de trabajo, comunicar las especificaciones de nuevos equipos y garantizar el cumplimiento de todos los protocolos de seguridad.
  • Participar en la respuesta ante emergencias y en trabajos de tormenta según sea necesario.

 

Lo que usted aporta

  • Mínimo dos años de experiencia en cuadrillas de árboles y finalización de todas las calificaciones de nivel de podador especializado en alturas.
  • Poseer conocimientos generales de identificación de árboles, hábitos de crecimiento y técnicas de poda adecuadas.
  • Conocer y comprender los requisitos de seguridad ANSI Z133 y los estándares de poda A300 para operaciones arborícolas.
  • Habilidades avanzadas para el ascenso/descenso de árboles con cuerdas y una silla de seguridad, y experto en operaciones de plataformas aéreas.
  • Dominio de los conceptos básicos de los circuitos eléctricos e interpretación de diagramas de circuitos.
  • Certificación de conocimientos y habilidades técnicas del podador especializado en alturas (o capacidad para completar estos requisitos).
  • Licencia de conducir válida, CDL y certificación médica requerida.
  • Certificación en RCP y primeros auxilios (proporcionado por Lewis).
  • Capacidad para liderar a los demás, comunicarse de manera eficaz y trabajar de forma independiente.
  • Garantizar el cumplimiento de todas las reglamentaciones locales, estatales y federales aplicables.

 

Demandas físicas

Capacidad para las siguientes actividades:

  • Levantar 50 libras hasta la altura de los hombros o más arriba.
  • Empujar o tirar hasta 50 libras.
  • Caminar hasta una milla por terrenos irregulares.
  • Soportar variaciones climáticas extremas (por ejemplo, de frío intenso a calor y humedad elevados).
  • Escuchar, hablar, ver y comunicarse de manera efectiva.
  • Operar herramientas y equipos con las dos manos.
  • Capacidad para progresar en la destreza de subir y bajar de los árboles.
  • Capacidad para trabajar y maniobrar a alturas considerables durante condiciones climáticas adversas.

De forma continua: estar de pie, caminar, manipular/sujetar, movimientos repetitivos y subir/bajar de árboles.

Con frecuencia: levantar/llevar, empujar/tirar, agacharse/arrodillarse, alcanzar.

En ocasiones: conducir, subir escaleras fijas/plegables.

Rara vez: estar sentado/operar.

Comentarios: Debe esperar una variabilidad en el tamaño, proporciones, condiciones y pesos de los suministros al igual que en los equipos y las condiciones de trabajo.

Condiciones ambientales: