Arborist Apprentice

Role overview

Arboricultural work

• Read work orders and assist climbers with rigging and removing limbs and tree sections.
• Take down trees and prune small trees and shrubs under supervision; limb and buck trees on the ground.
• Install and transplant trees, perform root pruning, and install root barriers.
• Support integrated pest management, invasive species control, and storm cleanup.
• Operate chippers and specialized equipment such as stump grinders, skid steers, hi-ab equipment, and airspades.

Equipment and safety

• Select and load daily equipment; inspect vehicles and equipment and maintain tools and machinery.
• Drive vehicles, including lift and chipper trucks, with or without trailers.
• Safely operate chainsaws, blowers, and other power tools; refuel and sharpen tools as needed.
• Set up and take down worksites, inspect for risks, select and inspect PPE, direct traffic, and clean up sites.
• Complete aerial rescue and lift-truck rescue training.

Qualifications

• WHMIS 2015 and First Aid certifications are mandatory.
• A Class 5 driver's licence is requested, or the candidate may pursue it shortly after hire.
• A high school diploma is listed; post-secondary education is an asset.
• Experience in arboriculture, horticulture, landscaping, or hardscaping is preferred.
• Physical fitness and ability to work outdoors are required.

Knowledge and attributes

• The role calls for attention to detail, safety awareness, collaboration, flexibility, communication, time management, and a results-focused work ethic.

Compensation

• Pay is $21.00–$27.00 per hour, depending on experience.
• A $1,000 sign-on bonus is offered to candidates with at least two years of arboriculture and tree-care experience.

Benefits

• Benefits include a self-directed benefits package, dental and insurance options, supplied PPE, safety and professional-development allowances, paid birthday off, vacation, holidays, sick days, and an employee carpool program.
• A relocation bonus may be available depending on location.