WHAT IS AN arborist ground person jobs
An arborist ground person is an essential member of a tree care team. They work alongside arborists, also known as tree surgeons, and are responsible for providing support and assistance during tree maintenance and removal operations. This role requires physical strength, agility, and a deep understanding of tree care practices. The arborist ground person plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of tree care operations.
WHAT USUALLY DO IN THIS POSITION
In the position of an arborist ground person, there are various tasks and responsibilities that need to be carried out. These include:
1. Assisting in tree climbing operations: Arborists often need to climb trees to perform pruning, trimming, or removal tasks. The ground person helps by securing ropes, providing support, and ensuring the safety of the climber.
2. Operating equipment: The ground person is responsible for operating and maintaining various types of equipment, such as chainsaws, wood chippers, and aerial lifts. They need to have a good understanding of how these tools work and ensure they are in proper working condition.
3. Clearing debris: After tree removal or pruning, there is often a significant amount of debris that needs to be cleared. The ground person helps in cleaning up the site, removing branches, and disposing of the waste material.
4. Assisting in tree felling: In certain cases, trees need to be completely removed. The ground person assists in the process by ensuring the safety of the surrounding area, providing guidance to the arborist, and helping with the removal of the tree.
5. Providing general support: The arborist ground person is expected to provide general support to the rest of the tree care team. This may include preparing the work area, providing tools and equipment, and assisting in any other tasks as required.
TOP 5 SKILLS FOR POSITION
To excel in the role of an arborist ground person, certain skills are crucial. Here are the top 5 skills required for this position:
1. Physical fitness and strength: The role of an arborist ground person involves a significant amount of physical labor, including lifting heavy objects, climbing ladders, and operating equipment. Good physical fitness and strength are essential to perform these tasks effectively.
2. Knowledge of tree care practices: A solid understanding of tree care practices, including pruning techniques, tree identification, and safety protocols, is essential. This knowledge ensures the ground person can assist the arborist effectively and contribute to the overall success of tree care operations.
3. Communication skills: Effective communication is vital in any team-based job. The arborist ground person needs to be able to communicate clearly with the rest of the team, follow instructions accurately, and provide updates on the progress of tasks.
4. Attention to detail: Tree care operations require precision and attention to detail. The ground person must be meticulous in their work, ensuring that all safety measures are followed, equipment is properly maintained, and debris is cleared efficiently.
5. Problem-solving abilities: Tree care can present unexpected challenges and obstacles. The ground person should have good problem-solving skills to assess situations, make quick decisions, and adapt to changing circumstances.
HOW TO BECOME THIS TYPE OF SPECIALIST
Becoming an arborist ground person requires a combination of education, training, and hands-on experience. Here are the steps to become a specialist in this field:
1. Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent: A high school education is typically the minimum requirement for entering the field of arboriculture. It provides a foundation of knowledge and skills that are beneficial for this profession.
2. Pursue relevant certifications and training: There are various certifications available in arboriculture that can enhance your skills and improve job prospects. The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) offers certifications such as Certified Arborist and Certified Tree Worker, which demonstrate expertise in tree care practices.
3. Gain practical experience: Practical experience is invaluable in the field of arboriculture. Seek opportunities to work as a ground person under the guidance of experienced arborists. This will allow you to learn on the job, develop essential skills, and familiarize yourself with the tools and equipment used in tree care operations.
4. Continuously update knowledge and skills: Arboriculture is a constantly evolving field, with new techniques and technologies emerging. Stay updated with the latest industry trends, attend workshops and seminars, and seek opportunities for professional development. This will ensure you remain a skilled and sought-after arborist ground person.
AVERAGE SALARY
The salary of an arborist ground person can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the size of the company. On average, an arborist ground person in the United States can expect to earn between $30,000 and $45,000 per year. However, it is important to note that salaries may differ significantly based on the specific employer and geographical region.
ROLES AND TYPES
Arborist ground person jobs can be found in various settings, including private tree care companies, municipal departments, and landscaping firms. Some common roles and types of arborist ground person jobs include:
1. Residential tree care: Many arborist ground persons work for companies that specialize in residential tree care. They assist in tree maintenance, pruning, and removal operations for homeowners and property managers.
2. Commercial tree care: Some arborist ground persons work for companies that provide tree care services to commercial clients, such as shopping centers, office complexes, and parks. They may be involved in large-scale tree maintenance and removal projects.
3. Municipal tree care: Municipalities often employ arborist ground persons to maintain and care for trees in public spaces, including parks, streets, and greenbelts. They may work alongside arborists in tree preservation, pest management, and planting initiatives.
4. Utility line clearance: Arborists are crucial in ensuring that trees do not interfere with utility lines. Ground persons working in utility line clearance assist arborists in trimming and removing trees to maintain safe clearance around power lines.
LOCATIONS WITH THE MOST POPULAR JOBS IN USA
Arborist ground person jobs can be found across the United States, but certain locations have a higher demand for these professionals. Some of the locations with the most popular arborist ground person jobs in the USA include:
1. California: With its diverse landscapes and large population, California offers numerous job opportunities for arborist ground persons. Cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego have a high demand for tree care services.
2. Texas: Texas is known for its vast urban areas and extensive tree cover. Cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin have a constant need for arborist ground persons to maintain and care for trees in residential and commercial settings.
3. Florida: With its warm climate and abundance of trees, Florida provides ample job opportunities for arborist ground persons. Cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa have a thriving tree care industry.
4. New York: The state of New York, particularly the New York City metropolitan area, offers numerous arborist ground person jobs. The urban environment requires regular tree maintenance and care to ensure the safety and aesthetics of public spaces.
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL TOOLS
Arborist ground persons use a variety of tools and equipment to carry out their tasks effectively. Some typical tools used in this profession include:
1. Chainsaw: A chainsaw is essential for cutting through branches and felling trees. Ground persons must be trained in chainsaw operation and safety protocols.
2. Wood chipper: Wood chippers are used to process tree branches and other green waste into wood chips. This equipment helps in efficient disposal and recycling of tree debris.
3. Climbing gear: Ground persons assist arborists in tree climbing operations by providing and maintaining climbing gear such as ropes, harnesses, and carabiners.
4. Hand tools: Various hand tools like pruning shears, loppers, and handsaws are used for smaller tree maintenance tasks, such as pruning branches or removing small limbs.
5. Aerial lifts: Aerial lifts, such as cherry pickers or bucket trucks, are used to access tree canopies for pruning or removal operations. Ground persons may operate and assist in the safe use of these lifts.
IN CONCLUSION
The role of an arborist ground person is crucial in the field of tree care. They provide support and assistance to arborists, ensuring the safe and efficient completion of tree maintenance and removal operations. This position requires physical strength, knowledge of tree care practices, and the ability to operate various tools and equipment. By gaining relevant certifications, practical experience, and continuously updating their skills, individuals can pursue a successful career as an arborist ground person. With the demand for tree care services on the rise, this profession offers opportunities for growth and job satisfaction.