Tree Crew Groundperson (Climber Assistant)

Job Title: Tree Crew Groundperson / Climber Assistant (Tree Crew)

Company: Atrium Tree Service / U.S. Grounds Maintenance

Location: Papillion, NE + Surrounding Areas

Reports To: Crew Leader / Lead Climber

Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

Atrium Tree Service is hiring a Tree Crew Groundperson / Climber Assistant to support professional tree pruning and removal operations. This role is critical to jobsite safety, productivity, and quality—supporting climbers, running ground equipment, managing ropes/rigging, and keeping the site controlled and clean. This is an ideal entry point for someone who wants a growth path into climbing and arboriculture.

Key Responsibilities

• Support climbers and crew leaders during pruning/removal work by managing ropes, staging tools, and maintaining a safe work zone
• Cut, drag, and stage brush/wood; load/unload trucks and trailers; complete jobsite cleanup
• Operate and maintain ground equipment (as trained): chainsaws, chippers, blowers, and hand tools
• Assist with setup/takedown of ropes, rigging systems, and climbing gear; follow direction precisely during critical lifts/cuts
• Drive trucks and/or tow trailers to and from job sites (based on experience and approvals)
• Keep work area orderly; clean and inspect tools/equipment; report maintenance needs promptly (truck, chipper, saws, PPE)
• Follow all company safety expectations and ANSI Z133 standards; help protect crew, customers, and the public through proper barriers/signage and hazard awareness
• Participate in training to build skills in knots, rigging, pruning fundamentals, and advancement toward climber responsibilities

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record (ability to tow a trailer is a strong plus)
• Tree care, landscaping, or outdoor labor experience preferred
• Familiarity with chainsaws/chippers and safe jobsite practices
• Basic knowledge of knots, rigging, and pruning concepts
• Ability to perform strenuous outdoor work in all weather conditions; comfortable working around loud/heavy equipment and uneven terrain
• Able to lift 50 lbs and safely handle repetitive physical tasks (dragging brush, loading debris, feeding chipper, etc.)
• Reliable, safety-first, team-oriented, and coachable

Schedule & Work Conditions

• Full-time role; hours vary based on workload, weather, and seasonal demand
• Overtime and occasional weekend work may be required during peak season or storm response
• Outdoor exposure includes heat, cold, rain/snow, insects, dust, and noisy equipment—PPE is required

Pay and Benefits

• Competitive pay based on experience
• Training and advancement opportunities (clear pathway toward Climber and Crew Leader)
• Bonus potential based on performance
• Health/Vision/Dental insurance options
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and paid holidays