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Utility Vegetation Management Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Utility Vegetation Management information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$14

$27

$52

How much do utility vegetation management jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility vegetation management in Santa Rosa, CA is $27.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $31.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a utility vegetation management?

A Utility Vegetation Management (UVM) job involves monitoring and managing vegetation near power lines, pipelines, and other utility infrastructure to ensure safety and reliability. UVM professionals assess tree growth, identify potential risks, and coordinate tree trimming or removal to prevent outages and hazards. They work closely with utility companies, arborists, and environmental specialists to maintain compliance with regulations. The role often includes field inspections, data collection, and the use of advanced technology like LiDAR and GIS mapping. Effective vegetation management helps prevent power outages, reduces wildfire risks, and ensures public safety.

What does a typical work day look like for someone in utility vegetation management?

A typical day in Utility Vegetation Management involves inspecting utility corridors, identifying vegetation risks, and coordinating or overseeing trimming and removal operations. You’ll spend time both in the field conducting site assessments and in the office documenting findings or planning upcoming work using specialized software. Collaboration with field crews, landowners, contractors, and utility company representatives is an important part of the job. While the work can be physically demanding and may require travel across different sites, it offers variety and the satisfaction of maintaining public safety and reliable utility services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in utility vegetation management, and why are they important?

Success in Utility Vegetation Management requires a solid understanding of arboriculture, environmental regulations, and utility safety standards, often supported by relevant certifications such as ISA Certified Arborist or Utility Specialist. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, work management systems, and handheld data collection devices is vital for effective planning and reporting. Strong problem-solving ability, communication, and organizational skills are crucial for collaborating with crews, landowners, and utility companies. These competencies ensure safe, efficient power line clearance and regulatory compliance, minimizing outage risks and environmental impact.

What are popular job titles related to Utility Vegetation Management jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

For Utility Vegetation Management jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Utility Vegetation Management jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Vegetation Management jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Utility Vegetation Management jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Utility Vegetation Management job openings:

Infographic showing various Utility Vegetation Management job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,869 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Vegetation Management Inspector (VMI)

Crafted Staff

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

$42.78 - $52.87/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Overview

We're hiring Vegetation Management Inspectors (VMI) to patrol utility right-of-way (ROW) areas and identify hazardous vegetation (trees/brush) along utility lines. This is a W2, union position (IBEW Local 1245).

If you have field experience around utility ROW, line clearance operations, forestry/outdoor field work, or inspection/patrol-style workand you want a role that's more about observation, documentation, and coordination than heavy physical laborthis role is a strong fit.

What you'll do

Patrol assigned utility circuits/lines to identify hazardous trees/brush and vegetation conditions that could impact reliability or safety

Perform identification, inspection, and evaluation of vegetation along utility lines

Document and submit inspection results with clear recommendations

Coordinate with vegetation/tree clearance crews (may plan, direct, and coordinate crew activities as assigned)

Discuss and help resolve access issues needed for line-clearance work

Serve as a liaison between clients, field crews, and customers as needed

Maintain a safety-first mindset and professional communication in the field

What we're looking for

Required

1+ year of relevant field experience (utility/ROW vegetation, line clearance support, forestry field work, field inspections, or similar)

Ability to work independently in the field and manage a daily route/workload

Strong attention to detail and ability to produce accurate, consistent documentation

Clear communication skills (you can explain what you're seeing and what needs to happen next)

Valid driver's license and ability to operate a company vehicle

Preferred

Prior experience as a vegetation management inspector or in utility ROW/line clearance operations

Comfort working around utility infrastructure and following safety requirements

Pay & benefits

Hourly pay: $42.78$52.87 (based on level/experience)

Union benefits package (paid by employer): medical, dental, vision, AD&D, and term life insurance

Company vehicle for business use

Company cell phone

Subsistence: $50/day worked

Per diem: up to $100/day (as eligible)

Work environment & physical requirements

Field-based work; expect regular driving and outdoor work in varying terrain and weather

Must be able to safely perform job duties in the field (walking uneven ground, entering/exiting vehicle frequently, etc.)

Pre-employment requirements

Employment is contingent upon satisfactorily passing applicable drug screening and background check.

Equal opportunity employer

We are an equal opportunity employer and consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

How to apply

Apply with your resume and a brief summary of your relevant experience (utility/ROW, line clearance, forestry field work, inspections, or similar).