Operator

Job Description

Job Title:

Operator

Division

Townsend Tree

Function

AZU – Manual/Unskilled Labor

Reports To

Manager

Discipline

AZU000– Manual/Unskilled Labor Generalist

Pay Type

Hourly

Career Band

(W) – Production/Manual Labor

Job Type

Non-Exempt

EEO Group

Laborers and Helpers

Effective

12/4/2025

Position Summary

The Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating specialized equipment used in the tree care and vegetation management industry. This includes running chippers, stump grinders, skid steers, mini-excavators, grapple loaders, or forestry mulchers to support line clearance, right-of-way maintenance, tree removal, and site restoration work. The Operator assists tree crews by preparing work zones, processing debris, and ensuring equipment is used effectively and safely to complete daily assignments.

Key Responsibilities

Essential Functions

Equipment Operation & Vegetation Management

• Operate chippers, stump grinders, skid steers, mini-excavators, forestry mulchers, grapple loaders, or other tree industry equipment.
• Assist crews with tree removal, trimming, rigging support, debris processing, and site cleanup.
• Feed brush, logs, and debris into chippers in accordance with safety and operational guidelines.
• Use machinery to load, move, grind, or haul debris and materials efficiently.
• Assist with ground operations including flagging, traffic control, chip cleanup, saw work, and material handling.
  
  

Safety & Regulatory Compliance

• Follow all OSHA, ANSI Z133, DOT, and company safety practices for tree operations.
• Participate in daily job-site briefings and hazard assessments.
• Use required PPE including helmets, eye/ear protection, chainsaw chaps, and gloves.
• Maintain safe distances from energized lines, drop zones, and active cutting areas.
• Identify hazards such as uphill/downhill positioning, machine roll risks, and falling debris.
• Report safety concerns, near-misses, or incidents immediately.
  
  

Equipment Care, Maintenance & Inspections

• Conduct daily inspections on chippers, skid steers, grinders, trailers, and trucks.
• Perform routine maintenance including fluid checks, blade inspections, lubrication, and cleaning.
• Maintain tools and equipment in proper working condition and report mechanical issues promptly.
• Ensure equipment is stored, secured, and transported safely according to DOT requirements.
• Keep debris screens, guards, and safety devices in place at all times.
  
  

Worksite Support & Coordination

• Assist the foreman with site setup including placement of cones, signs, and barricades.
• Coordinate hand signals and communication with climbers, cutters, and the bucket operator.
• Ensure efficient workflow by positioning equipment strategically for safe and productive job execution.
• Help maintain a clean, organized job site free from preventable hazards.
  
  

Quality & Productivity

• Ensure debris is processed thoroughly and efficiently to maintain job flow.
• Support the crew by anticipating needs (e.g., moving logs, feeding chipper, clearing brush).
• Monitor equipment performance and adjust operations to maintain quality standards.
• Provide feedback to the foreman regarding site efficiency or improvements.
  
  
  
  

• Duties may or may not be subject to change

Education And Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Experience operating equipment in the tree or vegetation industry preferred
  
  

Skills And Competencies

• Proficiency in operating tree-industry-specific equipment
• Understanding of safe chipper feeding, stump grinding, and material handling techniques
• Ability to recognize hazards and maintain situational awareness
• Strong communication skills with ground crew and climbers
• Knowledge of riverbanks, slopes, traffic zones, and right-of-way safety practices
• Ability to follow instructions and complete tasks efficiently
• Valid driver’s license; CDL preferred for towing or operating large equipment
• Ability to pass company drug test, background check, and physical assessment
  
  

Preferred

• Industry certifications (chipper operator, chainsaw safety, first aid/CPR) preferred
  
  

This role is based in an office environment with occasional remote work flexibility. The position may require

limited travel.

This job description is not intended to provide an exhaustive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities required for this position. The Townsend Company and its family of companies reserve the right to modify job responsibilities, duties, or schedules as needed to meet business or operational requirements. Accommodation requests will be made as necessary to support individuals with disabilities.

Additionally, this position is subject to pre-employment screening, which may include drug testing and a background check.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The Townsend Company and its family of companies are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees and applicants are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.