Tree Care Professional — Aerial Lift Operator & Ground Operations

Overview

Ken's Tree Service is looking for a skilled tree care professional who brings serious capability to both aerial and ground operations. This isn't an entry-level position, and it isn't a fit for someone with general landscaping experience. We're looking for someone who has operated aerial lifts on real removal work, understands the rigging that makes complex takedowns clean and controlled, and can run ground operations at a level where the crew stays efficient without being directed on every step.

We work primarily on commercial properties — apartment communities, HOA accounts, and managed commercial clients throughout the Tampa Bay area. Our clients are professional property managers who expect consistent, premium-quality results. Our crew reflects that standard, and we hold our work to a higher level than most of this industry.

No two jobs look the same. If you thrive on problem-solving and take pride in doing difficult tree work correctly, this is worth reading.

What You'll Be Doing

• Aerial lift and bucket truck operation for tree removal, pruning, and structural work on commercial and residential properties
• Pruning operations including crown cleaning, deadwooding, crown reduction, and structural pruning — this is the core of our daily work; candidates with commercial property pruning experience in a professional, standards-based environment will stand out
• Ground rigging — running ropes, setting up pulley systems, operating the porter wrap, and coordinating precision controlled removals with the aerial operator
• Operating the Avant articulating mini loader for wood processing, debris management, and site organization
• Grapple truck operation for debris loading and transport
• Chainsaw and pole saw operation at full proficiency across multiple saw types — this is non-negotiable; you should be able to pick up any saw and work efficiently from the first day
• Equipment maintenance through daily pre-use inspections and proper handling — we maintain our equipment seriously and expect the same standard from our crew
• Daily field documentation via smartphone — job notes, photo capture, and communication through our field systems
• Professional, composed interaction with property managers and on-site staff when needed

What We're Looking For

Core Requirements:

• 2 years of verifiable tree service experience — tree service specifically, not general landscaping or construction
• Deep working knowledge of rigging for removals: not just the basics, but practical application of modern techniques for controlled, efficient takedowns from both aerial and ground positions
• Working knowledge of ISA pruning standards and ANSI A300 guidelines — we apply these on every job; you should understand proper cut placement, branch attachment biology, and the reasoning behind the standards, not just that they exist
• Strong chainsaw and pole saw proficiency across equipment types, including sharpening and basic maintenance
• Valid Florida driver's license with a clean driving record
• Ability to commute reliably to Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
• Saturday availability when needed at overtime rates

Strongly Preferred:

• Aerial lift / bucket truck experience — this is the primary differentiator in our hiring decision
• Proficiency with articulating mini loaders (Avant or similar) and grapple trucks
• CDL Class B
• Working knowledge of ANSI Z133 safety standards
• ISA Arborist certification or active pursuit — particularly relevant given our standards-based pruning work

This Role Requires — Non-Negotiable:

• Genuine comfort with technology: smartphone documentation, communication apps, and the ability to learn our field systems — we are a tech-forward operation and daily digital documentation is part of the job
• Strong time management and self-direction — you should be able to assess a job, organize the work, and keep things moving without being walked through every step
• Professional communication and composure on commercial job sites

What We Offer

• $22.00 – $30.00 per hour, based on demonstrated experience and skills
• 401(k) with employer match
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Modern, well-maintained equipment — we run and maintain our gear properly
• Consistent schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Saturdays at overtime when needed
• Year-round work
• A small, skilled crew where your capability is visible and your contribution matters
• Professional development and certification support

About Ken's Tree Service

29 years delivering premium tree care throughout Tampa Bay. We operate with a tight, skilled crew on commercial and residential accounts where quality and professionalism are the standard. We use modern systems, maintain our equipment with care, and operate at a level this industry doesn't always reach. If that's the kind of operation you want to work for, we'd like to hear from you.

Pay: $22.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k) 3% Match
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• On-the-job training
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Safety equipment provided

Application Question(s):

• Will you be able to reliably commute to Tarpon Springs, FL 34689?
• How many years of tree service experience do you have — tree service specifically, not landscaping?
• Do you have aerial lift or bucket truck experience? If yes, describe the equipment and how long you operated it.
• Describe your rigging experience — what systems have you set up and what types of removals have you executed?
• Do you hold a CDL? If yes, what class?
• Do you have a valid Florida driver's license?
• Are you available to work Saturdays when needed at overtime rates?
• Describe your comfort level with smartphone technology and using apps for daily work documentation.

Work Location: In person

Salary : $22 - $30