Ground Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Job Overview

The Ground Technician is responsible for supporting arbor care operations by performing ground-based tree care, small equipment operation, and job site support activities. This position plays a critical role in ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality tree care services by assisting aerial crew members, operating arbor care equipment, maintaining vehicles and tools, and performing tree removal, pruning, planting, and stump grinding activities. The Ground Technician is expected to work safely in accordance with ANSI standards, maintain a professional job site, and continuously develop technical arboriculture skills.

Compensation: $20-$24/hour

Responsibilities and Duties

• Support climbers and aerial crew members with rope, rigging, and ground operations during tree care projects.

• Participate in daily job site safety meetings and consistently follow company safety policies and ANSI Z133 standards.

• Assist with tree pruning, removals, felling, bucking, and brush management.

• Drag brush, haul wood, and maintain clean, safe, and organized work areas throughout the job.

• Operate, inspect, and perform routine maintenance on chainsaws, wood chippers, stump grinders, trailers, trucks, and other arbor care equipment.

• Complete daily inspections of vehicles, trailers, equipment, and safety gear, reporting maintenance or repair needs.

• Perform stump grinding and restoration following tree removals.

• Assist with tree planting, cabling, bracing, and rigging operations as assigned.

• Properly load, secure, transport, and unload equipment, materials, and debris.

• Assist with job site setup, traffic control, and work zone organization.

• Support efficient project completion while maintaining high standards of quality, professionalism, and customer service.

• Communicate effectively with crew members to promote safe and productive operations.

• Participate in company training and continuously develop arboriculture knowledge and technical skills.

• Other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and commitment to teamwork.

• Basic understanding of tree pruning, tree removal, felling, and bucking techniques, or the ability to learn and advance through training.

• Ability to safely operate and maintain chainsaws, wood chippers, stump grinders, trucks, trailers, and other arbor care equipment.

• Work long hours and respond to emergency situations, as needed

• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting, carrying, climbing over uneven terrain, and working in various weather conditions.

• Strong communication skills and the ability to follow verbal and written instructions.

• Possess and maintain a valid Michigan Driver's License. A CDL with class C endorsement or higher preferred or obtained within one month of employment.

Career Path (including but not limited to):

Advanced Ground Technician - $24-$30/hr

• All of above functions and skills
• Proficiency operating trucks, trailers, and arbor care equipment
• Basic tree pruning and felling skills; assist with rigging, cabling, and bracing operations
• Take on increased responsibility for jobsite efficiency and safety

Aerial Lift Operator/Climber - $30-$34/hr

• All of above functions and skills
• Proficiency operating all aerial lifts including bucket trucks and spider lifts
• Intermediate pruning and rigging skills
• Knowledge of compartmentalization and other concepts related to tree wounding/pruning
• Perform aerial pruning and tree removal to standards
• Cabling and bracing of trees with a clear understanding of tree mechanics

Crew Leader - $34-$38/hr

• All of above functions and skills
• Class A CDL preferred (company-sponsored training available)
• Advanced expertise in felling, rigging, aerial lift operation and arbor care equipment
• Demonstrated productivity, safety record, and development of other team members
• Proven leadership and communication skills

• 401(k) plan with company match

• Medical insurance

• Dental insurance

• Vision insurance

• FSA/HSA

• PerkSpot

• Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance

• Paid time Off

• Tuition Reimbursement (after one year of service)