Vegetation Technician

Job Description

New Energy Equity and Energy Support Services is seeking a motivated individual to join our dynamic solar energy vegetation management team. This entry-level position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the clean energy revolution while gaining valuable hands-on experience. As a Vegetation Management Specialist, you will play a crucial role in maintaining the optimal performance of solar energy facilities. Join a growing team, powering a brighter future!

Essential Functions

• Conduct regular inspections of energy infrastructure to identify and address vegetation-related issues.
• Utilize industry-standard vegetation management techniques to ensure compliance with safety regulations and prevent vegetation-related outages.
• Clear vegetation from rights-of-way to maintain required clearances around power lines, transformers, and other critical energy infrastructure.
• Implement environmentally friendly and sustainable vegetation management practices.
• Implement Integrated Vegetation Management strategies to balance effective control of vegetation with environmental stewardship.
• Monitor and assess the impact of vegetation management activities on the local ecosystem.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and guidelines during vegetation management activities.
• Generate reports detailing vegetation management efforts and any issues encountered during site visits.
• Operate and maintain specialized equipment, such as brush cutters, chainsaws, and herbicide application tools.
• Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of mowing equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation.
• Complete basic mechanical maintenance to Equipment.
• Operate power tools and equipment for various landscaping tasks
• Assist with snow plowing and removal during winter months.
• Use hand tools to dig and prepare soil for planting.
• Other Duties as Assigned
• Embracing flexibility to take on additional tasks and responsibilities as needed.
• Adapting to the evolving needs of the team and organization.
• Extensive travel required during growing seasons, including extended stays in various states to complete the seasonal tasks as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; Degree or technical certification in related technical field preferred.
• OSHA 10 certification a bonus.
• Previous experience in vegetation management, preferably in the energy sector.
• Knowledge of environmental regulations and best practices related to vegetation management.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Physical fitness and ability to perform tasks requiring moderate to heavy physical exertion.
• Valid driver’s license and availability to obtain permit to drive official vehicles in the field.
• Must be comfortable operating a truck with 20' trailer.
• Operate zero-turn mowers while not creating ruts.
• Snow plowing experience is a bonus.
• Pass a Criminal Background check.
• Able to walk up to 5 miles per day.
• Can lift 50 lbs. in and out of trucks 50 times per day.
• Pass Pesticide applicators test within 60 days of hire.

Skills

• Ability to work independently and ask for guidance when needed.
• Strong written/verbal communication skills
• Have a strong attention to detail.
• Be a self-starter with strong time management skills.

Physical Requirements

• Be able to drive a vehicle confidently and with a high degree of safety.
• Be able to stand for long periods of time and walk distances up to three miles a day.
• Be able to navigate ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps while maintaining 3 points of contact.
• Have the visual acuity for depth perception, no field of vision issues, and to distinguish between colors.
• Be comfortable working in a variety of climate conditions which may include but are not limited to, extreme heat (temperatures above 100°F) or extreme cold (temperatures below 32°F) for periods of more than one hour.
• Be able to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

The expected annual compensation range for this position is $55,000-65,000 encompassing base pay and potential incentive target opportunity. This range is a good faith estimate based on the position's requirements. Specific compensation offered to the selected candidate may vary depending on factors such as relevant knowledge, skills, training, experience, and market conditions. Additionally, this position may qualify for a comprehensive benefits package, including Retirement Benefits, Medical, Dental & Vision, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, Life Insurance and Disability, Tuition Reimbursement, Voluntary Benefits, Paid Absences, and more.

At New Energy Equity, a proud subsidiary of ALLETE, we’re leading the charge in transforming the energy landscape with innovative solar solutions 🌞. As a top player in the renewable energy sector, we’ve successfully developed over 600MW of solar projects and closed more than $1.2 billion in clean energy investments 💼. Our projects deliver sustainable electricity to a wide range of clients, including commercial, industrial, municipal, and utility customers 🌍. But there’s more to us than just impressive numbers. We pride ourselves on a dynamic and engaging work environment where teamwork, continuous learning, and environmental stewardship are at the core of what we do 🌿. Our inclusive and collaborative culture encourages creativity and innovation, making our office a place where every idea is valued, and growth is a priority 💡. At New Energy Equity, you’ll join a passionate team that not only drives the clean energy future but also enjoys celebrating our successes together 🎉. With over 250 projects across the U.S. 🌎, our supportive atmosphere ensures a balanced work-life dynamic ⚖️ and a fun, fulfilling career path 🌟. Join us and be part of a forward-thinking company where your contributions are celebrated, and your professional development is supported as we work towards a brighter, sustainable future 🌍.

The statements above outline the essential functions, nature, and level of work expected as of the document’s preparation date. They are not exhaustive lists of all duties and responsibilities. New Energy Equity reserves the right to modify this job description at any time, without notice.

New Energy Equity is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.

If you are an individual with disabilities who needs accommodation or you are having difficulty using our website to apply for employment, contact our HR department at [email protected]