Employment

We’re Hiring!

Open Positions:

Arborist / Climber / Crew Leader

We are currently seeking an Arborist / Climber / Crew Leader to join our team. This is a full-time field position performed at variable locations near Burnsville, NC. Candidates should have previous experience with tree work and a strong commitment to safety/quality.

About Us

High Lonesome Timber is a small business located at the base of the Black Mountains in the Toe River Valley near Burnsville, NC.  We provide high-quality tree care to Yancey and Mitchell Counties.  We are a safe, professional, and conscientious company using modern methodology to keep our clients’ trees healthy, safe, and beautiful.  On a larger scale, we work with the National Park Service and US Forest Service to protect and maintain the public lands that make our region so special.  We are seeking self-motivated individuals with a strong work ethic, positive attitude, and the ability to perform physical tasks in a team-oriented environment.

Why Work Here

  • Work outdoors every day in beautiful Western North Carolina

  • Competitive pay, commensurate with skills, experience, and certifications.

  • Living Wage Certified employer.

  • Consistent year-round employment.

  • Retirement with company match after one year.

  • Supportive and inclusive team environment that values skill, safety, and integrity.

  • Flexible time off

  • 4/10 schedule

Basic Requirements For All Field Positions

  • Ability to lift heavy objects (50+ lbs) and work in physically demanding conditions.

  • A strong commitment to safety and following OSHA / ANSI standards.

  • Wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.

  • Ability to work collaboratively with a team.

  • Ability to communicate professionally and respectfully with diverse clients and coworkers.

  • Willingness to learn and grow in the tree care industry.

  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions (rain, heat, cold).

  • A valid driver’s license and clean driving record.

  • Ability to reliably commute to work and show up on time.

  • Ability to comply with drug and alcohol free workplace requirements

  • Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.

Responsibilities for Ground Workers

  • Assist tree climbers and arborists in pruning and removing trees safely.

  • Operate and maintain ground-based equipment, including chainsaws, excavators, skid steers, brush chippers, stump grinders, etc.

  • Manage the removal of tree debris, ensuring that work sites are kept clean and safe.

  • Safely load and unload equipment and materials at job sites.

  • Help prepare the work area by setting up safety zones and traffic control measures.

  • Support team members with rigging and climbing operations as needed.

  • Assist in transporting tools and materials to and from job sites, driving trucks towing trailers

  • Maintain and inspect tools and equipment to ensure proper functionality.

  • Provide excellent customer service by ensuring that all job sites are clean and organized at the end of each job.

Preferred Skills/Qualifications

  • Previous experience in landscaping, forestry, or tree care.

  • Experience with chainsaw and/or equipment operation.

  • Arborist certification or an interest in pursuing certification.

  • First Aid/CPR certification.

  • Ability to identify tree species.

  • Experience with ropes and rigging.

  • Ability to back a trailer

Responsibilities for Tree Climbers / Arborists

  • Assist with all ground operations as needed.

  • Perform aerial tree work in accordance with ANSI A300 standards.

  • Climb trees without spikes for pruning according to Best Management Practices.

  • Set up technical rigging.

  • Work with crane operators for removals.

  • Operate aerial equipment.

  • Collaborate with ground crew to ensure efficient and safe worksite operations.

  • Inspect and maintain climbing equipment to ensure safety.

  • Inspect tree defects for safety.

Preferred Skills/Qualifications

  • 1+ year of professional tree climbing experience

  • Forestry degree, ISA Certified Arborist, Certified Treecare Safety Professional, or interest in pursuing certification

Responsibilities for Equipment Operators

  • Safely operate equipment (excavator, skid steer, mini skid steer, chipper, stump grinder, etc.) to facilitate successful completion of projects 

  • Move, load, and haul tree debris

  • Minimize/repair damage to jobsites (and equipment)

  • Perform daily maintenance checks and scheduled maintenance on equipment

  • Transport equipment between jobsites

  • Assist ground crew and climbers as needed

Preferred Skills/Qualifications

  • 1+ years of experience operating construction or forestry equipment

  • Mechanical knowledge of equipment operation, safety, and basic troubleshooting

  • Ability to safely maneuver equipment in tight, residential, or rugged terrain

  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions

  • Strong communication and teamwork skills

Responsibilities for Crew Leaders

  • Supervise and lead field crew on job sites

  • Read and interpret site plans and work orders

  • Ensure safe and proper use of tools, equipment, and personal protective gear

  • Conduct daily job briefings, tailgate safety meetings, and site hazard assessments

  • Coordinate with the scheduler/operations team to ensure timely project completion

  • Train and mentor new crew members in arboriculture techniques and safety standards

  • Maintain equipment and report maintenance needs

  • Communicate clearly and professionally with clients, team members, and supervisors

Preferred Skills/Qualifications

  • 3+ years of professional tree work experience

  • Forestry degree, ISA Certified Arborist, Certified Treecare Safety Professional, or interest in pursuing certification

  • Strong leadership, communication, and organization skills

How to Apply

  • Please submit a resume along with references to: contact@hltimber.com

  • For inquiries call: 828.284.8353