What are the responsibilities and job description for the Entry-Level Forestry Mower Operator position at Fitzwater Outdoor Maintenance?
Entry-Level Forestry Mower Operator
We are seeking a safety-conscious Entry-Level Equipment Operator ready to build a rewarding career in vegetation management. In this role, we will train you to operate specialized forestry mowers and skid steers for right-of-way and land clearing projects. No heavy machinery experience is required—just a strong mechanical aptitude, a love for working outdoors, and a willingness to learn. A Class A CDL or herbicide experience is highly preferred and will put your application at the top of the list!
Key Responsibilities (With Training):
- Equipment Training & Operation: Learn to safely and efficiently operate forestry mowers, skid steers, and other land-clearing equipment under the supervision of experienced operators.
- Vegetation Management: Assist with clearing brush, small trees, and dense undergrowth for right-of-way and commercial maintenance.
- Ground Support: Perform necessary groundwork, including using chainsaws or hand tools to clear brush that the machinery cannot reach.
- Equipment Care: Learn to perform daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections. Help grease machinery, clean cutting heads, and assist with basic field maintenance.
- Herbicide Application (Preferred): Learn to safely assist with targeted chemical vegetation control following environmental and safety regulations.
- Safety First: Actively participate in morning safety briefings. Maintain 100% compliance with personal protective equipment (PPE) and situational awareness on active jobsites.
Qualifications & Requirements:
- Experience: No prior forestry mowing experience required! A background in outdoor labor, landscaping, farming, construction, or tree care is highly preferred.
- Mindset: A strong desire to learn, accept feedback, and develop high-level equipment operation skills.
- Physical Demands: Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain), lift up to 50 lbs, and navigate uneven, wooded terrain.
- Must be 18 years-of-age or older.
- Must be punctual, dedicated and enjoy working outdoors
- Problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Self-motivated, organized, and reliable.
- Valid Driver's License with a clean driving record; CDL a plus.
- Must be able to pass a drug screen and background check
Licenses & Certifications:
- Valid Driver’s License with a clean driving record is required.
- CDL Class A preferred (or a strong willingness to obtain one with company support).
- Any experience or interest in obtaining a Commercial Pesticide/Herbicide license is a major plus.
Typical Work Environment:
- Outdoor work, often in varying weather conditions (heat, rain, snow).
- May involve early mornings, late evenings, and weekend shifts.
- Schedule: 10-hour shifts, Monday thru Friday, with occasional Saturdays. Hours may vary.
Salary & Benefits:
Salary: Competitive pay based on experience
We offer a competitive range of benefits to support our employees’ health, well-being, and financial security.
Medical, dental, and vision benefits are available to all eligible employees on the first day of employment.
We also offer additional Voluntary insurance benefits, 401(k) and 401(k) matching, Paid Time Off, Sign-on Bonus and a Referral Program.