Plant Health Care Technician

JL Tree Service is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Master PHC Specialist to join our Team. This role is ideal for an experienced Plant Health Care professional who is passionate about arboriculture, integrated pest management, and delivering exceptional service. The Master PHC Specialist plays a critical role in protecting and enhancing tree and plant health while upholding the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and client communication.

The Master PHC Specialist leads advanced plant health care (PHC) operations, including treatments, integrated pest management (IPM), soil applications, and client relations. This role requires expert-level knowledge of arboriculture, IPM strategies, and regulatory compliance, as well as the ability to make informed treatment decisions and mentor team members.

The Master PHC Specialist ensures all PHC operations are performed safely, efficiently, and to the highest professional standards while serving as a trusted technical resource for clients and internal teams.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operate a PHC truck safely and maintain a valid driver’s license.

• Hold a supervisory pesticide (or state equivalent) license to apply and oversee regulated treatments.

• Read, write, and document treatment procedures, product usage, and field notes accurately.

• Communicate effectively with clients by providing updates, answering questions, and composing clear, detailed IPM service notes.

• Perform topical, systemic injection, bark, branch, and soil applications according to specifications.

• Mix products accurately and at correct rates, consistently following label instructions. • Adhere to proper application rates and maintain complete, accurate records.

• Make sound IPM decisions in the landscape using established treatment thresholds.

• Understand and follow the company’s media policy when interacting with clients or the public.

• Consistently follow PPE policies and all safety procedures.

• Refrain from using respirators unless medically qualified and trained.

• Identify at least 30 of the most common tree species in the region of operation. • Hold and maintain ISA Certified Arborist credentials.

• Perform additional job-related duties as assigned to meet business needs.

Safety and Compliance:

• Follow all company safety standards, OSHA regulations, and state pesticide application laws.

• Wear required PPE in accordance with product labels and company policy.

• Maintain situational awareness when working in public spaces or near pedestrians.

• Immediately report unsafe conditions, incidents, or near misses.

• Participate in ongoing safety training, tailgate meetings, and pre-job briefings.

• Promote a safety-first culture through consistent adherence to product handling, mixing, application, and IPM protocols.

Education and Experience: .

• High school diploma or GED preferred.

• Prior experience in plant health care, arboriculture, horticulture, or a related field preferred.

• Demonstrated experience making IPM decisions and managing plant health in landscape environments.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Advanced understanding of IPM principles, pest thresholds, and tree care practices.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including detailed documentation and client notes.

• Ability to communicate professionally with clients, coworkers, and supervisors.

• Knowledge of safe product handling, application techniques, and regulatory compliance.

• Ability to identify common and regionally significant tree species.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Valid driver’s license required (CDL a plus).

• Supervisory pesticide license (or state equivalent) required.

• ISA Certified Arborist credential required.

• CPR/First Aid certification preferred.

• Willingness to obtain additional certifications or training as required.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work.

• Frequent lifting, bending, walking, and standing for extended periods.

• Ability to work in a variety of weather conditions and on uneven terrain.

Working Conditions:

• Primarily outdoor work in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and wind.

• Exposure to dust, pollen, insects, and uneven terrain.

• Regular use of PPE, including gloves, eye protection, respirators, and protective clothing.

• Work involves handling chemicals, operating trucks and equipment, and working near public areas.

• Noise levels vary depending on equipment use.

• Schedule may include early mornings, evenings, and occasional weekends based on operational needs.

• Ability to work independently is required.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under state and federal law.

ADA Accommodation Notice: We are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to applicants and employees with disabilities. If you require accommodation during the application process or for any part of the employment process, please contact our HR department to initiate an interactive dialogue.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 – 50 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20 - $30