What are the responsibilities and job description for the General Foreperson position at Lewis Services?
Overview
Join a Company That Grows People
At Lewis, we’re not just trimming trees — we’re building a future. As the second-largest utility vegetation management company in North America and a proud employee-owned business, we believe every person on our team matters. When you join Lewis, you're not just taking a job — you're investing in your future.
Why You’ll Love It Here
- Experience the great outdoors while working in nature, not stuck behind a desk!
- Elevate your career with us — we prioritize training and internal promotions!
- Join a vibrant team that champions safety, values your feedback, and fosters a strong sense of camaraderie!
- Shape your future with us through our fantastic Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)!
Responsibilities
What You’ll Do as a General Foreperson
As a General Foreperson at Lewis Services, you’ll:
- Lead and manage Forepersons and Assistant General Forepersons
- Plan and oversee production, bid new work, and meet revenue targets
- Collaborate with utility foresters/inspectors to clarify specs and address issues
- Visit job sites, review hazard surveys, and enforce safety practices
- Ensure employees receive proper training and performance feedback
- Identify and develop high-potential employees for leadership roles
- Maintain records for man hours, equipment, materials, incidents, permits, and more
- Coordinate with Corporate on timekeeping, billing, recruiting, and employee relations
- Take a lead role in safety for employees, customers, and the public
- Promote a positive team environment and strong customer relationships
Qualifications
What You Bring:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Leadership experience in utility line clearance (Foreperson or Asst. General Foreperson level)
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Knowledge of tree identification, growth habits, and arboriculture techniques
- Understanding of utility drawings, voltage, and line equipment
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. to shoulder height or more
- Computer proficiency (Microsoft Word and Excel)
- Valid driver’s license, CDL, and medical certificate (as required)
- Ability to obtain First Aid and CPR certifications
- Ability to pass pre-employment drug and skills tests
Physical Demands
Ability to:
- Lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
- Walk or hike on uneven terrain
- Endure extreme climate conditions
- Hear, speak, see, and communicate effectively
- Operate tools and equipment
- Sit, stand, climb, kneel, and perform repetitive movements
Continuously – Outdoor work, walking, handling toolsFrequently – Temperature extremesOccasionally – Noise levelsRarely – Hazardous materials, air quality issuesNever – Confined spaces
Environmental Conditions
Continuously – Outdoor workFrequently – Temperature extremesOccasionally – Noise levelsRarely – Hazardous materials, air quality issuesNever – Confined spaces
Comments: Conditions vary by region. PPE required per OSHA and ANSI standards.
Tools & Equipment
Equipment may include:
- Aerial lift trucks, dump trucks, ATVs
- Chainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, chipper
- Blowers, pruners, rakes, winches, ropes
- Climbing gear: harness, chaps, spikes
- Sprayers, herbicide applicators, fuel, cones, signs
- Tablets and communication devices
What We Offer
Non-Union Benefits:
- Competitive pay
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
- Paid training and certifications
- Health, dental, vision & HSA options
- 401(k)
- Paid time off and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Our DEI Commitment
Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is key to the success of our business. We respect the differences among us, and we leverage those differences to create an environment where all employees feel welcome and fairly treated. We seek the best solutions possible by attracting and engaging a diverse workforce where all perspectives are sought and valued.
Lewis Tree Service is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to providing equal opportunity for both applicants and employees. Lewis Tree Service prohibits unlawful discrimination or harassment of employees and applicants based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, age (40 ), religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic, all employment decisions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, compensation, training, apprenticeship, promotion, demotion, transfer, lay-off and termination, and all other terms and conditions of employment. Lewis Tree Service’s practices and policies are administered under applicable federal, state, and local laws.