Class A CDL Skid Steer Operator

Who we are:

Founded in 1945 by A. D. West and M. E. Erickson, West Tree Service, a Gunnison Company, has been a trusted provider of Right of Way (ROW) maintenance services for utilities. We specialize in vegetation management, including tree trimming and removal, herbicide application, and mowing. Our clients include Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs) like Entergy and OG&E, Cooperatives, Municipalities, and gas pipeline companies. A clear ROW ensures utilities can deliver reliable and uninterrupted services to their customers. Most of our management team and supervisors are certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), promoting professional arboriculture practices.

We Offer:

• Weekly pay
• Paid Time Off & Health Benefits.
• Growth & Development within the company.
• Boot allowance on qualifying purchases.
• 401k 4% match.

Class A CDL Skid Steer Operator Summary:

We are seeking a dependable and experienced Class A CDL Skid Steer Operator to join our team. This role supports our field crews by operating skid steer equipment and commercial vehicles to perform vegetation management, storm cleanup, and ROW maintenance. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong equipment skills, safe work practices, and a commitment to team success.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Operate skid steer machinery safely and efficiently to move logs, brush, mulch, and debris on job sites.
• Drive and operate Class A CDL vehicles for transporting equipment and materials.
• Perform site preparation, clean-up, digging, material handling, and storm response tasks.
• Conduct routine pre-operation inspections and perform basic maintenance on equipment.
• Load/unload materials and ensure equipment is secured during transport.
• Communicate and coordinate with crew leaders, project managers, and customers.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized job site in compliance with OSHA and company safety standards.
• Wear all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and follow all safety protocols.
• Attend and participate in tailboard meetings, hazard analyses, and safety briefings.
• Assist with ground operations and additional field work when not operating machinery.
• Identify and recommend safer or more efficient work methods.

Qualifications:

• Valid Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a clean driving record.
• Minimum 1 year of Skid Steer experience (Required)
• Proven experience operating skid steers or similar heavy equipment (grapples, mulchers, etc.).
• Knowledge of tree care operations and vegetation management is strongly preferred.
• Formal training or certification in heavy equipment operation is a plus.
• Ability to work in fast-paced, physically demanding environments and varying weather conditions.
• Strong communication skills and a positive, team-oriented mindset.
• Willingness to work extended hours, weekends, and emergency storm response when needed.
• Ability to travel to where work is needed; primary projects near Sallisaw, OK

Working Conditions:

• Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions.
• May involve long hours, weekend shifts, or emergency work during storm damage recovery.
• The role requires physical strength and stamina to manage machine operation and assist with manual labor when necessary.

Salary Range:

• Starting at $20/hour
• Higher starting pay available for candidates with prior experience mulching ROW for utility companies