Tree Climber Apprentice Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary

The Tree Service Groundsman is an essential member of the tree care crew, responsible for supporting climbers, bucket operators, and equipment operators during tree removal, pruning, and land clearing projects. This position involves operating equipment, handling ropes, processing brush and logs, maintaining a clean and safe work area, and ensuring jobs are completed safely, efficiently, and professionally.

Essential Job Duties

• Assist climbers and bucket operators during tree removals and pruning operations.
• Safely operate chainsaws, pole saws, blowers, and other hand and power tools.
• Feed brush and limbs into wood chippers safely and efficiently.
• Load, stack, and haul logs, brush, wood chips, and debris.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free job site throughout the workday.
• Set up traffic control devices, cones, and work zone protection as directed.
• Operate ropes, rigging equipment, tag lines, and lowering devices under the supervision of qualified crew members.
• Assist with equipment loading, unloading, fueling, and routine maintenance.
• Perform stump cleanup, raking, blowing, and final site cleanup to company standards.
• Communicate clearly with crew members during tree operations.
• Inspect and care for company tools and equipment daily.
• Assist with truck loading and securing equipment before leaving each job site.
• Report damaged equipment, unsafe conditions, or customer concerns immediately.
• Assist with other tree care and excavation duties as assigned.
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Qualifications

• Previous tree service, landscaping, construction, or outdoor labor experience is preferred but not required.
• Valid driver's license and a clean driving record a must
• Ability to learn tree care practices, equipment operation, and safety procedures.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Teachable, reliable, and on time
• Full time 35-40 hours a week, 7am-3 or 4 pm (sometimes working over to finish a job), and all call in emergency situations like storm damage, weekends are optional. Being on time and having reliable transportation to and from work is a must.
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Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to walk, stand, bend, kneel, climb, and work on uneven terrain for extended periods.
• Comfortable working around heavy equipment, chainsaws, and wood chippers.
• Ability to perform physically demanding work throughout the day.
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Knowledge & Skills

• Ability to follow directions and work safely.
• Good communication and teamwork skills a plus.
• Mechanical aptitude is a plus.
• Ability to recognize hazards and maintain situational awareness.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Desire to learn tree climbing, equipment operation, a plus
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Safety Responsibilities

• Wear required PPE at all times, including hard hat, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps (when required), high-visibility clothing, and appropriate footwear.
• Follow all OSHA, company safety policies and procedures.
• Never enter the drop zone unless authorized by the climber or foreman.
• Maintain safe distances from operating equipment and suspended loads.
• Operate chainsaws, chippers, and other equipment only after proper training.
• Report all injuries, accidents, equipment damage, or unsafe conditions immediately.
• Never work under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
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Preferred Qualifications

• Chainsaw experience.
• Experience operating wood chippers, mini skid steers, or other equipment.
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or willingness to obtain one a plus.
• First Aid/CPR certification a plus.
• Interest in pursuing a career as a Tree Climber, Bucket Operator, Equipment Operator, or Foreman if desiring growth within the company.
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Career Advancement Opportunities

At Bradley Tree Service, Groundsmen who consistently demonstrate safety, reliability, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn may advance into positions such as:

• Tree Climber Apprentice
• Tree Climber
• Bucket Operator
• CDL Driver / Equipment Operator
• Crew Foreman