Tree-MEK Crane Operator — CDL Required

NCCCO Crane Operator Certification Preferred

Who We Are

Alpine Tree Service is a family-run, rapidly growing, full-service tree care company serving residential and commercial clients across New Jersey.

We are building a team of professionals who share our commitment to teamwork, professionalism, reliability, honesty, and safety. At Alpine, you become part of a team that supports each other, shares ideas, and celebrates success together.

We invest in our people, equipment, and training to deliver safe, efficient tree care and a professional customer experience.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking an experienced Tree-MEK Crane Operator with a current, valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate our knuckle boom crane for technical tree removals.

This is a hands-on production role for an operator who takes ownership of equipment readiness, plans ahead, and works closely with climbers and Crew Leads to complete complex jobs safely and efficiently.

A CDL and at least three years of tree care industry operator experience are required. NCCCO Crane Operator Certification is preferred.

You should be comfortable adapting to changing site conditions, communicating clearly with your crew, and using a tablet or mobile app to review work orders and complete job reports.

Your Responsibilities

Operate the Tree-MEK knuckle boom crane for technical tree removals in accordance with manufacturer instructions, equipment limits, and Alpine’s safety protocols.
Coordinate with climbers and Crew Leads on job planning, crane setup, rigging, and removal sequences.
Assess site access, ground conditions, overhead hazards, and weather before and during operations.
Perform daily vehicle and equipment inspections, routine maintenance, and readiness checks.
Report equipment concerns promptly and address unsafe conditions before proceeding.
Drive company commercial vehicles within your CDL qualifications and maintain required DOT documentation and reporting.
Follow ANSI Z133 safety standards and established job-site procedures.
Review and execute work orders using tablet or mobile systems.
Communicate clearly with the crew, Sales, Office, and customers.
Complete accurate job reports on time.
Prepare trucks, equipment, and tools for the following day.
Anticipate problems and adjust job plans as conditions change while maintaining safety.
Participate in safety meetings, training, and ongoing professional development.

Qualifications We Require

At least three years of tree care industry operator experience in active production work.
Current, valid CDL appropriate for the company vehicles you will operate.
Clean, insurable driving record.
Knowledge of safe crane operation, equipment limitations, and tree removal procedures.
Knowledge of ANSI Z133 safety standards for tree care work.
Ability to inspect equipment, recognize hazards, and make sound decisions in changing conditions.
Strong communication skills with crews and customers.
Ability to use digital tools for work orders, documentation, and reporting.
English proficiency.
Authorization to work in the United States.
A reliable, accountable approach and a commitment to teamwork and continuous improvement.

Qualifications We Prefer

NCCCO Crane Operator Certification.
Direct experience operating a Tree-MEK or similar knuckle boom crane in tree removal operations.
Experience with complex removals, rigging, and coordinating crane operations with climbers and ground crews.

What We Offer

Competitive pay based on experience and performance.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
401(k) with a 3% company match.
Paid time off, holidays, and sick time.
On-the-job training and ongoing professional development.
Company-paid training and certifications relevant to your role.
A clear advancement path with priority given to internal promotions.
Industry-leading equipment, including the Tree-MEK crane.
Full safety equipment provided.
Company phone.
A collaborative team that values professionalism, respect, and integrity.

Work Location: In person - Morristown, NJ; serving job sites throughout Northern New Jersey.

When applying, please include your tree care and crane operating experience, CDL class and any endorsements or restrictions, and relevant certifications.

Pay: $30.00 - $50.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 40.0 per week

Benefits:

Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Referral program
Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Alpine Tree Service

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