Grapple Truck Operator

About the Role

We need an experienced grapple truck operator to run debris removal and log loading across our 9-county service area. You'll be behind the wheel and on the controls daily - hauling storm debris, loading logs off removals, and keeping job sites moving so the crew isn't waiting on the truck.

This is a year-round, full-time position. Not seasonal. Not 1099. You're a W-2 employee with workers comp, liability coverage, and commercial auto insurance on every job.

What You'll Do

• Operate a grapple truck for debris removal, log loading, and hauling
• Position the truck and work the loader safely around crews, structures, and power lines
• Haul loads between job sites and disposal or mill locations
• Perform DOT pre-trip and post-trip inspections, daily greasing, and fluid checks to keep the truck road-ready
• Support the ground crew when the truck is idle - we all pull in the same direction

What We're Looking For

• Class A CDL - required, with a clean driving record
• 2+ years grapple truck experience - you've run a knuckleboom loader on real jobs, not just moved a truck around a yard
• Any grapple background welcome - tree service, logging, scrap, or storm contract work. Tree and storm debris experience is highly desirable
• Current DOT medical card - required
• Operator-level maintenance - daily greasing, fluid checks, and pre/post-trip inspections are part of the job. Real wrench skills are a plus, not required
• Load securement knowledge - you know how to chain down and tarp a legal load
• Reliable transportation - ability to get to the shop or job site
• Safety-first mindset - we don't cut corners

Compensation & Benefits

• $24-$30/hour based on experience
• Production bonus on top of base hourly rate
• 401(k) with employer match
• Full-time, year-round employment
• Workers compensation and full liability coverage
• Professional equipment - grapple trucks, Takeuchi forestry mulcher, excavators, Bobcat skid steers
• Room to grow as we expand crews and territory

Physical Requirements

• Ability to climb in and out of the truck and loader seat repeatedly throughout the workday
• Ability to lift and carry 50+ lbs repeatedly
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain)
• Ability to secure loads with chains, binders, and tarps
• Comfortable operating near power lines, structures, and crews with proper training and PPE

Additional Information

• Employment with DC Tree Cutting and Land Service LLC is at-will
• Must be authorized to work in the United States
• DC Tree Cutting maintains a drug-free workplace. Pre-employment, DOT, and random testing may apply
• Class A CDL and current DOT medical card required

DC Tree Cutting and Land Service LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.