Pay Rate In Tree Jobs in Chattanooga, TN (NOW HIRING)

Benefits:

• Company parties
• Dental insurance
• Free uniforms
• Opportunity for advancement
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Job Description: Hydraulic Crane Operator
- Tree Service
Position: Hydraulic Crane Operator (Tree Service)
Location: Chattanooga, Tn. Must be local to this area.
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: Top Pay & Comprehensive Benefits for the Right Candidate
Travel Requirement: Must be willing to travel for storm response work
Equipment Preference: Liebherr and other pin-lock boom hydraulic cranes
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Hydraulic Crane Operator with a strong
background in tree removal and tree service operations. The ideal candidate must be
proficient in operating pin-lock boom hydraulic cranes, preferably Liebherr machines, and
must be comfortable working in hazardous, tight-space environments where precision is
critical.
As a Hydraulic Crane Operator, you will work closely with climbers, ground crews,
arborists, and foremen to execute complex tree removals and emergency storm cleanup safely
and efficiently. Candidates must demonstrate strong mechanical aptitude, operational
precision, and situational awareness. A formal evaluation, including practical and written
exams, will be required to verify skill level.
This position offers top pay and benefits, with opportunities for storm response deployments
and overtime pay. We are looking for professionals who take pride in their work and are
dedicated to safety, efficiency, and teamwork.
Key Responsibilities:
Crane Operation & Tree Service Tasks:
• Operate hydraulic cranes (preferably Liebherr pin-lock boom models) for tree
removal, lifting, and precision work in residential, commercial, and emergency
settings.
• Safely maneuver and position the crane in tight or restricted access areas, avoiding
obstacles such as power lines, buildings, and landscaping.
• Work with tree climbers, bucket truck operators, and ground crews to coordinate
rigging, load placement, and tree section removals.
• Lift and hoist large tree sections, logs, limbs, and other debris using proper rigging
techniques to avoid shock loading or dynamic movement.
• Conduct daily crane inspections and maintenance checks, ensuring proper hydraulic
function, stabilizer deployment, and boom integrity.
• Adjust boom extension, load capacity, and lifting angles based on the weight and
condition of the tree sections being lifted.
• Utilize wireless headsets and radio communication to coordinate precise movements
with the ground crew and job foreman.
• Execute complex and technical lifts, including dead trees, hazardous limbs, trees over
houses, and confined-area lifts.
• Adhere to strict safety protocols and industry standards, following OSHA, ANSI, and
company policies.
Storm Response & Emergency Operations:
• Must be willing and available to deploy for emergency storm response work, often
requiring extended hours and travel.
• Operate cranes in disaster-stricken areas for storm-damaged tree removal and debris
clearing.
• Work safely in high-risk conditions, including wet or unstable ground, strong winds,
and low-visibility environments.
• Collaborate with power companies, emergency responders, and municipal crews when
working on storm restoration projects.
Maintenance & Equipment Care:
• Conduct pre-operational and post-operational crane inspections to ensure mechanical
readiness.
• Maintain detailed crane operation logs and maintenance records as per company and
regulatory requirements.
• Assist with minor mechanical repairs, hydraulic adjustments, and lubrication
schedules to keep equipment running efficiently.
• Report any mechanical or safety concerns to the fleet manager or maintenance
department immediately.
Qualifications & Requirements:
Experience & Skills:
• Minimum of 5 years experience operating hydraulic cranes in tree service, logging, or a
similar industry.
• Proficiency in running pin-lock boom cranes, preferably Liebherr models.
• Strong background in tree removal techniques and rigging principles.
• Experience with precision lifting and working in confined spaces near buildings, power
lines, and other structures.
• Knowledge of load charts, crane dynamics, and weight calculations for safe lifting
practices.
• Ability to assess job sites for stability, terrain safety, and crane positioning.
• Experience in storm response, emergency tree work, and disaster recovery is highly
preferred.
Licenses & Certifications:
• NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) certification a
MUST.
• Valid Class A or B CDL with a clean driving record (required).
• OSHA 10 or 30-Hour Certification (preferred).
• CPR and First Aid training (preferred).
• Rigging & Signal Person Certification (preferred but not required).
Work Environment & Physical Demands:
• • Must be comfortable working outdoors in extreme weather conditions (heat, cold, rain,
wind).
• • Ability to work at heights, operate in tight spaces, and navigate uneven terrain.
• • Must be able to lift and carry 50+ lbs., perform bending, kneeling, and climbing activities.
• • Ability to work long hours, including overtime, weekends, and emergency call-outs.
• • Must be willing to travel extensively for storm and emergency work at a moments notice.
Compensation & Benefits:
• • Top pay based on experience and skill level.
Health, Dental, and Vision insurance options.
Paid time off (PTO) and holiday pay.
Overtime & hazard pay for storm response deployments.
Ongoing training, certifications, and professional development opportunities.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their resume, crane certifications, and a list of previous
tree work experience. Qualified applicants will be required to take a practical crane operator
exam before hiring.
• • Apply today! Join our elite team of skilled crane operators and take your career to new
heights! • • • • •
•About Us
We have a small but impactful history. Cody Watkins dreamed of a tree service that could provide and help his local community, and in 2009, he was able to make his dream become a reality. Serving the Chattanooga area for over a decade, Big Woody's Tree Service is now one of the leading tree and stump removal companies in the area.
Our business is insured, licensed and bonded for customer satisfaction. Big Woody's Tree Service is dedicated to providing our customers in the Chattanooga, TN area and beyond with the safest and highest quality of work at a fair price, while preserving beauty and health of the environment.