Journeyman Tree Trimmer

Responsible for safely performing line clearance tree trimming activities for the District, utilizing commonly accepted and/or prescribed techniques, equipment and utility work practices.  Incumbents will use some independent judgment, referring unusual or policy level decisions to the appropriate Foreman and/or supervisor if time and circumstances permit.  Work actions and decisions are generally carried out pursuant to tailboard sessions, with final instructions and work authorizations having been provided by the Foreman in charge.

Reporting Relationships

Reports to: The Director of Operations will provide management oversight with regard to overall work performance and adherence to District policies, work methods and procedures. 

Directed by: The assigned crew Foreman will provide daily guidance and direction regarding work assignments and task completion, according to established work practices, safety protocols, and other systematic processes.

Assignments are generally given orally, along with selected written direction/instructions by task.  Work is reviewed by either direct observance in accomplishing the assigned task and/or by inspection of the finished task or assignment.

Cooperates and coordinates with all individuals or organizations as required.  This position requires occasional contact with the public and the frequent, effective use of two-way radios and cell phone devices.

Essential Functions:

·         Responsible for performing all work on District projects in compliance with work specification and to District, WISHA, and OSHA safety standards.

·         Maintains proper clearance of the District’s transmission and distribution system by removal, trimming and other treatment of encroaching trees and vegetation.

·         Operate District equipment including rigging, chain saws, hand saws, insulated pole saws, bucket trucks and man lifts, excavators and skid steers using multiple attachments including mulching heads, etc.

·         Will be required to climb trees continuously throughout the work shift.

·         Communicate all aspects of each assignment with the individual making the assignment, and when necessary, with property owners affected by the assignment.

·         Performs general operations maintenance and housekeeping activities.

·         Attends and actively participates in District sponsored training activities related to safety, tailboards, equipment maintenance, technology/technique updates, etc.

Other Duties:

·         Must work directly or indirectly with District customers on a regular, ongoing basis. Must provide a high level of professional, prompt, efficient, accurate, courteous, and reliable service in such a manner as to reflect favorably on the District and to ensure high quality service to District customers.

·         Respond appropriately to stressful and/or difficult interactions.

·         Understand and demonstrate a commitment to the P. U. D.’s mission, vision, core values, and strategic plan.

·         Comply with all company policies and work rules.

·         Adhere to all safety policies and procedures.  Promote a safe work environment for all employees, contractors, and customers, in order to ensure a reliable workforce and an educated community.

·         Be respectful of all employees and customers, listening to their requests and understanding their needs.

·         Act as a responsible steward of public assets and trust. Foster open and honest communications, listen, and understand other perspectives.

·         Foster teamwork and promote unity of the District and its departments.

·         Must present personal appearance suitable to this position.

May perform other duties for which the employee is qualified and can be performed safely (alone or under the direct supervision of a qualified and trained individual).

Requirements

Education, Experience, & Training Required

·         High school graduate or equivalent. Must be knowledgeable in the removal, trimming and other treatment of encroaching trees and vegetation.

·         Must have successfully completed a recognized apprenticeship program, and passed a Journeyman Tree Trimmer exam which meets the requirements CFR 1910.269 and Chapter 296-45 WAC.

·         Must annually demonstrate job proficiency as required by OSHA CFR 1910.269 and Chapter 296-45 WAC.

Skills & Abilities

·         Skilled in trimming and tree removal techniques.

·         Skilled in climbing trees utilizing proper and approved equipment.

·         Skilled in proper use and operation of tools, rigging, vehicles, and equipment associated with tree removal and maintenance of transmission and distribution right-of-way.

·         Ability to read, understand, and use maps, manuals and work-related reference materials.

·         Ability to apply common sense and rational thinking to solve practical problems and to comprehend instructions.

·         Ability to mathematically add, subtract, multiply and divide, work with decimals and fractions, and understand and calculate measurements.

·         Ability to read and comprehend relevant instruction manuals and maps.

·         Ability to properly prepare required forms and reports, i.e., accident forms, damage reports, leave slips, etc.

·         Ability to clearly communicate verbally and in writing.

·         Ability to receive guidance and supervision, follow work rules, safety practices, work procedures, and meet punctuality and attendance standards.  Complete assignments in an appropriate time period.

·         All performance standards must be completed at a Journeyman level.  

·         Ability to perform under stress when confronted with emergency, critical, unusual or dangerous situations, or in situations when sustained attention is a critical aspect of the job.

Physical Requirements:

·         Most work activities are performed outside under a wide variety of conditions. 

·         Potential hazards include mechanical parts and equipment, electrical currents, high voltage, working at heights and dangerous tree conditions. 

·         Potential exposure to chemicals, fumes, odors, dusts, mist, gases and/or poor ventilation.

·         Ability to exert in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

·         Lifting and exertion of some force may be required with body in twisted and/or extended positions in accordance with proper safety techniques and training, such as when working on a pole or tree or from a bucket truck.

·         Ability to work in extreme weather conditions including exposed terrain, high winds, hot/cold temperatures, rainy/snowy conditions, etc.

·         Ability to traverse over rough, uneven terrain.  Occasional use of snowshoes, snow machines and other equipment may be necessary to reach remote, rural locations.

·         Ability to tactfully handle and perform under stressful and emergency situations.

·         Eyes must be in general good health, corrected visual acuity sufficient to meet the essential functions of this position.

·         Corrected hearing must be within 75 percent of the normal range with not less than 90 percent speech discrimination at the time of initial hire.

·         Under regular pressure to meet deadlines, perform tasks with a high degree of accuracy, process a large volume of work and resolve issues related to the business needs of the District.

Other requirements

• Valid driver license
• CDL Endorsement – Class A
• Post-offer drug test
• Post-offer background check
• Apprenticeship or other education/training required as a condition of employment, progression or advancement
• CPR/First Aid Card
• Flagging Card

Benefits

The District offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, FSA for medical and dependent care, HRA VEBA, a variety of life insurance and AD&D options; deferred compensation (401(a) & 457(b)), PERS, short- & long-term disability, and a generous personal leave bank.

This is a union position with starting hourly rate of $50.86.