Tree Crew Forman

Job Description

Job Description

Job description:

Position: Tree Crew Forman

Company: Eastern Landscape Contractors, Inc.
Location: NYC Metro Area (projects across NJ, NYC, and NYS)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Schedule: Typically Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM, with flexibility required for night work or weekend shifts depending on project needs.
Compensation: Prevailing Wage (rates vary by project location and trade schedules)

About Eastern Landscape Contractors

Eastern Landscape Contractors, Inc. is a union-signatory, WBE-certified public works contractor specializing in large-scale landscape construction, tree removal, vegetation management, and environmental restoration. Our team is trusted by state agencies, municipalities, and major infrastructure clients across the Northeast.

We bring expertise to some of the region’s most challenging projects, from regulated tree removals on public rights-of-way to mission-critical tree operations that keep major infrastructure projects moving forward. Our crews work under the guidance of ISA-certified arborists and seasoned industry experts, delivering safe, compliant, and high-quality results.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Lead Tree Operator to join our field team. This is a hands-on, senior-level role for a professional with strong operating skills and the ability to take a lead role in complex tree operations. The Lead Tree Operator will handle bucket truck operations, removals, pruning, and vegetation management while supporting the broader landscape construction scope.

This position offers stable, year-round employment with consistent income through prevailing wage projects, and provides an excellent pathway to earning hours toward union membership while learning directly from experts in this highly specialized field.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain a bucket truck and related heavy equipment for tree work.
• Perform tree removals, stump grinding, structural pruning, and canopy management .
• Support site clearing, grubbing, and vegetation control as part of landscape construction projects.
• Work under supervision of arborists and project managers to execute complex tree work scopes .
• Safely rig and remove large-caliper trees in urban and infrastructure environments.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, and union safety standards on all jobsites.
• Provide guidance to crew members and help maintain safe, efficient workflows.
• Contribute to jobsite coordination with other subcontractors and GC partners.

Requirements

• 5+ years professional tree work experience (removals, pruning, rigging, vegetation management).
• Valid CDL-A license (required).
• Demonstrated experience with bucket truck operation and other tree equipment.
• Familiarity with landscape construction and public works projects preferred.
• Ability to read site plans and follow safety procedures.
• Strong work ethic and reliability—must be able to work outdoors year-round .
• Flexibility to work nights or weekends when project schedules require.
• Willingness to travel to jobsites across NJ, NYC, and NYS.

What We Offer

• Stable, consistent work tied to large-scale public contracts.
• Prevailing wage compensation , with rates adjusted to project location.
• Standard schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM , with potential for night or weekend work as required by projects.
• A clear pathway to gain union hours and benefits .
• Hands-on training and mentorship from ISA-certified arborists and experienced operators.
• Exposure to diverse, high-profile projects that will expand your skill set.
• Opportunities for advancement into foreman and leadership roles as the team grows.
• A supportive, safety-first team culture that values professionalism and growth.

Equal Opportunity Employer & Disclaimer

Eastern Landscape Contractors, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) . We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals in this position. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties as necessary to meet business needs. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings, including verification of qualifications and eligibility to work in the U.S.

Eastern Landscape Contractors, Inc. is a heavy highway landscape construction company, specializing in all aspects of public/private landscaping work in the Tri-State Area. We possess a unique and competitive skill set that sets us apart from others in the public landscaping industry. With our specialized knowledge, dedicated employees, & extensive resources Eastern Landscape Contractors, Inc. can handle projects of any diversity or size.

Company Description

Eastern Landscape Contractors, Inc. is a heavy highway landscape construction company, specializing in all aspects of public/private landscaping work in the Tri-State Area. We possess a unique and competitive skill set that sets us apart from others in the public landscaping industry. With our specialized knowledge, dedicated employees, & extensive resources Eastern Landscape Contractors, Inc. can handle projects of any diversity or size.