Operations Manager & Lead Arborist
Leadership Opportunity | Arboriculture | Potential Future Ownership Path
We're not looking for someone to simply manage crews.
We're looking for a leader who can help build an exceptional arboriculture company.
Our company has established a reputation for quality work, professionalism, and doing what's right for our clients. As we continue to grow, we're seeking an experienced Certified Arborist to lead operations, develop our team, oversee production, and serve as a trusted advisor to our customers.
This is a unique opportunity for an individual who wants to make a significant impact, help shape the future of a growing company, and potentially pursue a path toward profit sharing, partnership, or ownership in the years ahead.
The Opportunity
As Operations Manager & Lead Arborist, you will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the company while ensuring every project is completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standard.
You will work closely with ownership to lead our crews, improve systems and processes, maintain quality control, and help drive the continued growth of the business.
This role combines leadership, operations management, arboricultural expertise, sales, customer service, and occasional field production.
Key ResponsibilitiesOperations & Leadership
- Lead, mentor, and develop field crews
- Manage daily scheduling, logistics, and workflow
- Ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and professionally
- Maintain accountability and high performance standards
- Conduct quality control inspections and job site audits
- Identify and implement operational improvements
- Foster a positive, professional, and safety-focused culture
Client Relations & Sales
- Meet with residential and commercial clients
- Assess trees and provide professional recommendations
- Prepare detailed estimates and proposals
- Educate property owners on tree health, risk management, pruning, removals, and long-term tree care
- Build trust and long-term client relationships
- Support company growth through exceptional customer service and professionalism
Production Support
While this is primarily a leadership role, the successful candidate must be capable of stepping into production when needed.
This includes:
- Climbing and rigging
- Technical pruning and removals
- Bucket truck operation
- Crew leadership in the field
- Assisting with complex or high-value projects
QualificationsRequired
- ISA Certified Arborist designation
- Minimum 5+ years of professional arboriculture experience
- Strong climbing and rigging experience
- Bucket truck operation experience
- Experience leading and developing crews
- Excellent understanding of modern arboricultural practices and industry standards
- Strong communication and customer service skills
- Valid driver's license with clean abstract
- Physically capable of performing arboricultural work when required
Preferred
- Previous operations management experience
- Experience with estimating and sales
- Air brake endorsement and/or commercial driver's license
- Additional ISA credentials
- Plant health care knowledge
- Experience managing multiple crews
Who You Are
You are someone who:
- Leads by example
- Holds yourself and others to a high standard
- Takes ownership and responsibility
- Is highly organized and detail-oriented
- Communicates clearly and professionally
- Values quality over shortcuts
- Enjoys developing people and building strong teams
- Strives for excellence in everything you do
What Success Looks Like
Within your first 12 months, you will:
- Build strong relationships with our team and clients
- Improve operational efficiency and accountability
- Maintain exceptional safety and quality standards
- Help develop crew leaders and strengthen our workforce
- Contribute to sustainable company growth
- Establish yourself as a trusted leader within the organization
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Performance-based bonus opportunities
- Company vehicle or vehicle allowance (if applicable)
- Ongoing professional development and training
- Leadership role with significant autonomy and influence
- Long-term growth opportunities
Future Growth Opportunity
We believe exceptional people should have exceptional opportunities.
For the right individual who demonstrates leadership, commitment, and alignment with our values, there may be future opportunities for profit sharing, partnership, or ownership.
Why Join Us?
We're building a company known for professionalism, craftsmanship, safety, and outstanding customer service.
If you're an experienced arborist who wants more than just another job—if you're looking for a leadership role where you can help shape the future of a growing business—we'd like to hear from you.
To Apply
Please submit your resume along with a brief introduction answering the following:
- How many years of arboriculture experience do you have?
- What certifications and licenses do you currently hold?
- Describe your leadership experience.
- What interests you about this opportunity?
- Where would you like your career to be in the next 5 years?
Pay: $50,000.00-$80,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
