Tree Service Skid Steer Operator

Position Summary As an Equipment Operator, you'll safely and efficiently handle a variety of heavy equipment — including skid steers, excavators, chippers, stump grinders, and trailers — to support tree removal, pruning, debris processing, and land clearing projects. Your attention to safety and property protection will be critical to the success of each job. Responsibilities Safely operate and maintain skid steers, excavators, chippers, stump grinders, trucks, trailers, and related machinery Protect client lawns, driveways, and property while moving trees, stumps, and debris Load and unload machinery daily with the team Follow job plans, project specs, and instructions from Team Leads/Management to meet quality and efficiency goals Conduct routine inspections and preventative maintenance on assigned equipment Use, maintain, and sharpen chainsaws; assist with rigging and tree-removal tasks as needed Support pre-job safety briefings, identifying hazards and planning safe workflows Train crew members in equipment operation, safe practices, and task-specific skills Communicate clearly with teammates (and clients, when appropriate) to keep projects on track Perform Groundman duties and other assignments that support the company's mission Required Skills & Knowledge Thorough understanding of tree removal processes and debris handling Skilled in skid steer operation and other heavy machinery Ability to tow and back trailers confidently Knowledge of knots, hitches, pruning, and cutting techniques (ISA standards) Familiarity with ANSI/OSHA standards, DOT regulations, and PPE requirements Basic mechanical knowledge of heavy equipment maintenance and minor repairs Strong communication and teamwork skills Qualifications High school diploma or GED Valid driver's license (CDL Class B or higher preferred) OSHA-10 or higher certification; First Aid & CPR 1+ year of tree care experience 2+ years of experience operating skid steers or similar equipment in tree service projects Solid problem-solving and decision-making abilities Physical & Working Conditions Lift up to 50 lbs; stand, walk, and operate machinery for extended periods Work outdoors year-round in all weather conditions Must be able to work long/irregular hours during emergency storm response Job Type: Full-time Pay: $ $23.00 per hour Benefits: 401(k) Life insurance Paid time off People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply Application Question(s): How many years of experience do you have operating skid steers or other heavy equipment in tree service, drum mulching and land clearing? Describe the types of equipment you've operated for a tree service in the past. Describe your experience with knots, hitches, and rigging, and how you protect property when operating equipment. What's your level of experience with chainsaw use, sharpening, and maintenance? What PPE do you consider essential when running heavy machinery in a tree service environment? What motivates you to do well in a physically demanding role like this? If a skid steer stops working in the field, what's the first step you take to troubleshoot it? Experience: Tree care: 1 year (Preferred) Heavy equipment operation: 1 year (Preferred) Chainsaw: 1 year (Preferred) driving trucks with trailers and hauling skid steers: 1 year (Preferred) Work Location: In person