Skid Steer Foreman

Job Description

Job Title:

Skid Steer Foreman

Division

Townsend Tree

Function

AZU – Manual/Unskilled Labor

Reports To

Manager

Discipline

AZU000– Manual/Unskilled Labor Generalist

Pay Type

Hourly

Career Band

(M) – Supervisory/Management

Job Type

Non-Exempt

EEO Group

First/Mid-Level Managers

Effective

12/4/2025

Position Summary

The Skid Steer Foreman is responsible for leading and supervising crews performing vegetation management, debris handling, material loading, grading, and site restoration using skid steers and related attachments. This position ensures safe and efficient operation of machines such as grapple buckets, forestry mulchers, stump grinder attachments, root rakes, and log grapples. The Foreman directs daily work activities, provides safety oversight, communicates with utility partners, and maintains high-quality standards while coordinating skid steer operations to support tree trimming and removal projects.

Key Responsibilities

Essential Functions

Leadership & Crew Management

• Lead and supervise skid steer operators and crew members performing vegetation removal and debris management.
• Assign tasks, monitor productivity, and ensure work meets company and utility standards.
• Train operators in proper skid steer techniques, attachment use, and safe operating procedures.
• Conduct daily job briefings, hazard assessments, and crew safety discussions.
• Promote teamwork, professionalism, and effective communication on the job site.
  
  

Safety & Compliance

• Enforce all OSHA, ANSI Z133, DOT, and company safety policies related to skid steer operation.
• Identify hazards such as uneven terrain, rolling risks, drop zones, overhead hazards, and utility obstructions.
• Ensure proper machine guarding, safe attachment handling, and PPE compliance.
• Maintain safe work zones including traffic control when required.
• Report near-misses, incidents, and unsafe conditions promptly.
• Lead by example to support a proactive safety culture.
  
  

Skid Steer Operation & Field Oversight

• Operate skid steers with various attachments including:
• Grapple buckets
• Brush or forestry mulchers
• Stump grinder attachments
• Root rakes
• Log grapples
• Buckets for loading and grading
• Direct machine operations to support tree removal, cleanup, stump removal, and right-of-way maintenance.
• Coordinate machine movements with ground crew, climbers, and bucket operators.
• Ensure operators follow safe loading, unloading, and maneuvering practices.
  

Equipment Care, Maintenance & Inspections

• Perform and oversee daily inspections of skid steers, hydraulics, tires/tracks, and attachments.
• Monitor fluid levels, lubrication points, cutting edges, teeth, and wear items.
• Document equipment deficiencies and report repairs immediately.
• Ensure machines are cleaned, secured, and transported safely between job sites.
• Maintain accurate equipment logs and inspection records.
  
  

Operations, Planning & Communication

• Review work orders, utility specifications, and job plans prior to beginning work.
• Assess job sites to determine machine access, terrain challenges, and safety controls.
• Communicate job progress, changes, or challenges to supervisors and utility partners.
• Adjust work plans based on conditions such as weather, obstacles, or customer requests.
  
  

Quality Control & Work Standards

• Inspect work to ensure debris is processed and cleared efficiently.
• Ensure proper grading, site restoration, and cleanup after tree removal activities.
• Provide coaching and corrective direction when work standards are not met.
• Verify job sites are left clean, safe, and in compliance with customer expectations.
  
  
  
  

• Duties may or may not be subject to change
  
  

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 3–5 years of skid steer experience in tree or vegetation management
  
  

Skills And Competencies

• Valid driver’s license; CDL preferred
• Ability to pass company drug test, background check, and physical exam
• Strong knowledge of skid steer operation and vegetation management attachments
• Understanding of tree removal workflow and debris-handling best practices
• Knowledge of machine limits, load distribution, and terrain hazards
• Ability to train operators and direct coordinated machine/crew activity
• Strong communication and leadership skills
• Ability to maintain accurate reports and documentation
• Excellent situational awareness and hazard recognition
  
  

Preferred

• Previous crew lead or supervisory experience preferred
• Industry certifications such as First Aid/CPR, Line Clearance, and equipment training 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.