Job Detail

Arborist / Climber / Crew Leader

Location: Burnsville, NC
Salary: Pay depending on skills and experience

Currently Hiring: Arborist / Climber / Crew Leader

We are seeking a skilled climber / crew leader, but we're happy to receive applications from candidates of all skill levels.  This is for a full-time field position performed at variable locations near Burnsville, NC.

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About Us

High Lonesome Timber is a small business located at the base of the Black Mountains in the Toe River Valley near Burnsville, NC.  We provide high-quality tree care to Yancey and Mitchell Counties.  We are a safe, professional, and conscientious company using modern methodology to keep our clients’ trees healthy, safe, and beautiful.  On a larger scale, we work with the National Park Service and US Forest Service to protect and maintain the public lands that make our region so special.  We are seeking self-motivated individuals with a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and the ability to perform physical tasks in a team-oriented environment.

Why Work Here

• Work outdoors every day in beautiful Western North Carolina

• Competitive pay, commensurate with skills, experience, and certifications.

• Living Wage Certified employer.

• Consistent year-round employment.

• Retirement with company match after one year.

• Supportive and inclusive team environment that values skill, safety, and integrity.

• Flexible time off

• 4/10 schedule

Basic Requirements For All Field Positions

• Ability to lift heavy objects (50+ lbs) and work in physically demanding conditions.

• A strong commitment to safety and following OSHA / ANSI standards.

• Wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.

• Ability to work collaboratively with a team.

• Ability to communicate professionally and respectfully with diverse clients and coworkers.

• Willingness to learn and grow in the tree care industry.

• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions (rain, heat, cold).

• A valid driver’s license and clean driving record.

• Ability to reliably commute to work and show up on time.

• Ability to comply with drug and alcohol free workplace requirements

• Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.

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Responsibilities for Ground Workers

• Assist tree climbers and arborists in pruning and removing trees safely.

• Operate and maintain ground-based equipment, including chainsaws, excavators, skid steers, brush chippers, stump grinders, etc.

• Manage the removal of tree debris, ensuring that work sites are kept clean and safe.

• Safely load and unload equipment and materials at job sites.

• Help prepare the work area by setting up safety zones and traffic control measures.

• Support team members with rigging and climbing operations as needed.

• Assist in transporting tools and materials to and from job sites, driving trucks towing trailers

• Maintain and inspect tools and equipment to ensure proper functionality.

• Provide excellent customer service by ensuring that all job sites are clean and organized at the end of each job.

Preferred Skills/Qualifications

• Previous experience in landscaping, forestry, or tree care.

• Experience with chainsaw and/or equipment operation.

• Arborist certification or an interest in pursuing certification.

• First Aid/CPR certification.

• Ability to identify tree species.

• Experience with ropes and rigging.

• Ability to back a trailer

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Responsibilities for Tree Climbers / Arborists

• Assist with all ground operations as needed.

• Perform aerial tree work in accordance with ANSI A300 standards.

• Climb trees without spikes for pruning according to Best Management Practices.

• Set up technical rigging.

• Work with crane operators for removals.

• Operate aerial equipment.

• Collaborate with ground crew to ensure efficient and safe worksite operations.

• Inspect and maintain climbing equipment to ensure safety.

• Inspect tree defects for safety.

Preferred Skills/Qualifications

• 1+ year of professional tree climbing experience

• Forestry degree, ISA Certified Arborist, Certified Treecare Safety Professional, or interest in pursuing certification

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Responsibilities for Equipment Operators

• Safely operate equipment (excavator, skid steer, mini skid steer, chipper, stump grinder, etc.) to facilitate successful completion of projects 

• Move, load, and haul tree debris

• Minimize/repair damage to jobsites (and equipment)

• Perform daily maintenance checks and scheduled maintenance on equipment

• Transport equipment between jobsites

• Assist ground crew and climbers as needed

Preferred Skills/Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience operating construction or forestry equipment

• Mechanical knowledge of equipment operation, safety, and basic troubleshooting

• Ability to safely maneuver equipment in tight, residential, or rugged terrain

• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions

• Strong communication and teamwork skills

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Responsibilities for Crew Leaders

• Supervise and lead field crew on job sites

• Read and interpret site plans and work orders

• Ensure safe and proper use of tools, equipment, and personal protective gear

• Conduct daily job briefings, tailgate safety meetings, and site hazard assessments

• Coordinate with the scheduler/operations team to ensure timely project completion

• Train and mentor new crew members in arboriculture techniques and safety standards

• Maintain equipment and report maintenance needs

• Communicate clearly and professionally with clients, team members, and supervisors

Preferred Skills/Qualifications

• 3+ years of professional tree work experience

• Forestry degree, ISA Certified Arborist, Certified Treecare Safety Professional, or interest in pursuing certification

• Strong leadership, communication, and organization skills

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How to Apply

• Please submit a resume along with references to: [email protected]

• For inquiries call: 828.284.8353

• Learn more about us at: highlonesometimber.com/employment

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