Tree Crew Foreman/Apprentice

International Society of Arboriculture
Petoskey, MI

Tree Crew Foreman/Apprentice

Location: Petoskey, MI
Salary: $25-$34 (Depending on experience)

  • Would you love working outdoors in beautiful locations?
  • Would you love to work with an ambitious team that values trust, excellence, hard work, and cares about each other?
  • Do you love learning new things all the time?
  • Would you like to operate some really cool equipment?

Join a team where hard work meets adventure. At Firman Irrigation and Tree Service, we don't just work- we grow, climb, and lead together. Whether you're starting out or ready to lead, your future starts here. Enjoy competitive pay and benefits, hands-on training, paid certifications, and a close-knit team.

Why Firman Irrigation and Tree Service?

At Firman, we believe in investing in our team. Here are some things that make working with us rewarding:

  • 90% Paid Health Insurance: Priority Health coverage for employees and 50% for dependents.
  • Dental Insurance Available: Comprehensive dental plans to support your health.
  • IRA Matching: Up to 3% company match after 30 days.
  • Large Bonus Potential: High achievers can earn significant bonuses.
  • Rapid Pay Increases: Competitive pay grows quickly for high performers and those earning certifications.
  • Paid Holidays and birthdays: Enjoy well-deserved time off with paid holidays and birthdays.
  • Free Winter Gym Memberships: Stay active and healthy during the off-season.
  • Company Vehicle Potential: Opportunities for a company vehicle based on role and performance.
  • Career Growth: Fast-track promotions with hands-on learning and leadership opportunities.
  • Supportive Team Culture: Work alongside a close-knit crew in a positive environment.
  • Cutting-Edge Equipment: Access to the latest tools and machinery to excel on the job.
  • Paid time off
  • Drug-free workplace

Career Paths/ Pay:

Level 1: "Groundie" - $20-$22/hr

  • Requirements: Driver's license, great attitude, physical strength, and stamina to work long hours in all weather conditions.
  • Basic Duties: Support aerial workers with rope operations, assist in trimming trees, dragging brush, hauling wood, maintaining clean job sites, planting trees and operating equipment like chippers.
  • Training Provided: Basic knots, job safety, communication skills, company software, tree identification, chainsaw operation, equipment handling, trailer backing, and proper loading technique. Advancement: 3-6 months to Level 2.

Level 2: "Advanced Groundie"-$22-$26/hr

  • Requirements: Solid equipment and driving skills (with trailers), basic pruning, and tree-felling knowledge.
  • Basic Duties: Advanced equipment operation, rigging support, and stump grinding as well as everything listed in level 1.
  • Training Provided: Advanced knots, tree felling, rigging techniques, jobsite setup, and lift operation basics. Advancement: 3-6 months to Level 3.

Level 3: Aerial Lift Operator/Climber - $26-$30/hr

  • Requirements: Class A CDL, experience with spider lifts, intermediate rigging, and pruning skills. Climbing roles are selective. We will provide CDL training.
  • Basic Duties: Intermediate lift operation, rigging, and pruning. Some aerial workers will become climbers.
  • Training Provided: Advanced rigging, pruning, leadership development, and preparation for arborist certification. Advancement: 6-12 months to Level 4.

Level 4: Certified Arborist - Foreman/Sales - $30-$34/hr

  • Requirements: Class A CDL, certified arborist credential, and excellent leadership abilities.
  • Basic Duties: Lead a crew, ensure safety and productivity, inspire, and develop team members.
  • Continuous Learning: Rigging, climbing, pruning, cabling. Leadership growth is limitless

Our Core Values:

T rust - We build relationships and trust with our customers, vendors, and team.

E xcellence - We have high standards in our work and professionalism.

A ccountability - We take ownership of our work, safety, and actions.

M ission - We strive to help others and leave the world a better place.

Attributes of an Ideal Firman Tree Service Team Member:

  • Trustworthy: Shows integrity and honesty
  • Ambitious: High energy and hungry for growth
  • Responsible: Takes ownership
  • Values Excellence: Laser focuses on a few things and does them very well
  • Voracious learner: Intelligent and loves to learn new things
  • Courageous: Not afraid to take risks and do what is hard
  • Can do attitude: Looks for ways to accomplish the mission even when conditions are less than ideal
  • Caring: compassionate, caring about others' needs
  • Battery charger: Keeps a good attitude even when times are tough 
  • Self-discipline: Has good habits that will propel them to a successful career

Thinking about living and working in Northern Michigan

Discover the unique charm of living and working in the beautiful Petoskey area of Northern Michigan. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, freshwater lakes, and a welcoming community, this picturesque region offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town warmth. Petoskey itself boasts a charming downtown with local shops, restaurants, and a rich cultural scene. With an abundance of recreational opportunities like hiking, boating, and skiing, Petoskey is an ideal place to build a career and enjoy the best of both work and leisure. Join us in caring for Northern Michigan while enjoying a fulfilling career. We understand that relocating to a new job can be a big decision, and we are here to help make the transition easier! If a move is necessary to accept the position, we will help new candidates find housing and settle in Northern Michigan.

Learn More about Our Team!

*** Ready to grow your future with us? Apply today! Call Rachel at 231-347-7499 ***

Where Hard Work Meets High Rewards. Start Your Climb Now!

Posted 2025-12-16

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