TREE TRIMMER I                                                           7016

 

 

 

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The work involves responsibility for performing semi-skilled work involving the trimming, shaping, repairing, pruning and general care and maintenance of trees on municipal property.  An employee in this class performs routine semi-skilled duties involving the pruning and general care of trees and large shrubs on roads, parks and on other municipal properties. The employee often works at considerable heights from vehicle mounted and extension ladders involving some occupational risk.  Work also consists of operating electrical, gas-powered and manual tree cutting and spraying equipment.  Assignments and instructions are given orally by a technical superior who supervises work in progress and upon completion for adherence to work standards and safety precautions.  Does related work as required.

 

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

            Trims trees at various heights using bosun's chair or harness, vehicle mounted and other ladders, clears limbs and branches from overhead wires, road signs, and traffic lights and other obstructed structures; removes fallen trees from roadways;

            Operates tractor, mower or other lawn maintenance equipment;

            Operates manual, electrical and gas-powered shears, chain saws, sprayers and related equipment;

            Sprays trees and shrubbery with insecticides, fertilizers and other chemical substances; does simple tree surgery not requiring previous formal education;

            Does ground maintenance duties in cutting and trimming shrubbery, grass, raking leaves and similar duties;

            May drive a truck, hauling crew, equipment and materials to and from work sites.

 

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Thorough knowledge of climbing and pruning practices and methods; good knowledge of the practices, methods and equipment of tree maintenance work; good knowledge of ropes, knots, tools and the occupational hazards and necessary safety precautions of the work; good knowledge of the operation and care of tree cutting and spraying equipment; good knowledge of common insects and fungi affecting trees and shrubs and the materials and methods of controlling them; skill in the use of chain saws, shears, sprayers and other standard equipment of the work;  ability to make minor repairs and adjustments to power and manually operated tools and equipment; ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Three (3) years of experience in grounds maintenance work.

 

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Candidates must possess the appropriate license issued by the New York State Depart­ment of Motor Vehicles.  Type of license will be determined by the appointing authority with respect to the type of vehicle to be operated.  License must be maintained throughout employment in this position.

 

R 11/24/20

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Non-Competitive