Tree Worker

Tree Worker

Reporting to the Field Arborist, the Tree Worker performs a variety of skilled tasks in the pruning, removal, installation, and treatment of trees on campus grounds. Attends bi-weekly arboriculture technique and safety training and field exercises for tree workers. Utilizes appropriate PPE and complies with industry safety standards on job sites and limits risk during tree care operations. Maintains current safety credentials required and hosted by EHS. Executes tree care work orders for customer requests, routine maintenance, emergency response, and plant health care programming. Implements proper pruning techniques including removal cuts that do not damage the branch collar and reduction cuts to the appropriate aspect ratio. Implements simple rigging techniques including standard tree care knots (running / standing bowline, clove hitch, timber hitch, and alpine butterfly), appropriate rigging point and redirect selection, and port-a-wrap installation and operation. Participates in job briefings before every job and establishes and maintains job site safety zones (drop zones) for all operations. Locates trees in the campus tree inventory for work planning and identifies trees in the field before job briefing begins. Communicates work order status to direct supervisor and accurately records labor hours per work order. Operates various equipment such as farm type tractors, stump grinders and chippers as well as various bucket trucks and single axle dump trucks in a safe manner that limits risk and protects campus assets. Inspects all PPE, tools, ropes, equipment, implements, and vehicles for needed maintenance and replacement. Uses hand and power tools such as chain saws, hedge trimmers, blowers, shovels and rakes in a safe manner that limits risk and protects campus assets.

Valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Class B with air brake endorsement, and the ability to obtain and maintain removal of the manual transmission restriction within 6 months of employment. Working knowledge of the ANSI A300 tree care standards and ANSI Z133 safety requirements. Demonstrable competence implementing proper pruning techniques including removal cuts that do not damage the branch collar and reduction cuts to the appropriate aspect ratio and implementing simple rigging techniques including standard tree care knots (running / standing bowline, clove hitch, timber hitch, and alpine butterfly), appropriate rigging point and redirect selection, and port-a-wrap installation and operation. Minimum 3 years experience in the tree care industry with specialization in pruning, removal, and plant health care. Must be able to cope with heights which may typically reach 50-70 feet above ground. Ability to apply safety standards and procedures in the operation of equipment and performance of work tasks including verification that utility locates have cleared prior to work commencing when required. Must be able to perform heavy manual labor, including safely moving and handling greater than 50 pounds; climb and work from elevated work stations such as ladders and scaffolds; work for long periods of time sitting, standing, walking, reaching, bending, pushing / pulling; and work in all types of weather conditions, including extreme temperatures.

ISA Certified Arborist. VDACS Pesticide Applicator License. Experience in a large commercial, public sector, or educational setting.

Pay Band 2

Overtime Status Non-Exempt : Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type Regular

Salary Information $42,000 - $47,000 (commensurate with experience)

Hours per week 40

Review Date October 13, 2025

Additional Information Licensure and Certification required for Entry into Position : Valid Class B CDL with air brake endorsement and the ability to obtain and maintain removal of the manual transmission restriction within 6 months of employment. Must have a driver's license and criminal background check. Work hours are normally Monday - Friday 7 : 30a.m. 4 : 00 p.m. During periods of inclement weather, emergency situations or for special projects, may work a modified schedule and additional hours to meet the needs of the department. This position is designated as "Emergency Personnel" and employee must be available to work during emergency situations (including inclement weather, call-backs, etc.) as directed by supervisor or lead. May be required to work extended shifts, additional hours and overtime to meet the needs of the department; to include being physically on site if deemed necessary. Must wear employer provided uniforms as instructed by supervisor or lead. As situation dictates, must wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Facilities HR at opsHR-g@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.