Agroforestry Crew Lead

Position Summary

Trees For Graziers (TFG) is an agroforestry company specializing in working with farmers to integrate trees into their grazing systems. We aim to make silvopasture adoption as simple as possible for farmers by offering consulting services, connecting farmers with funding, growing silvopasture-specific nursery stock, implementing projects as well as the post-planting care of trees. Our core operations are in Lancaster county, PA, where we have significantly increased the adoption of silvopasture since 2020.

TFG is seeking an experienced and dedicated Crew Lead to help ensure the success of implementing agroforestry projects predominantly in Lancaster and surrounding counties. The Crew Leader will supervise, lead and manage the installation crew comprised of full-time and seasonal employees under the direct guidance of the Project Manager. Throughout the planting seasons (Spring/Fall), the Crew Lead will ensure the safety of their crews, guide and supervise project work, delineate tasks, organize schedules, facilitate team-building, oversee consistent work quality, maintain professional communication with staff, partners and landowners, drive a company truck and trailer, and complete associated administrative and reporting duties related to the position. During maintenance seasons (Summer/Winter), the Crew Lead responsibilities can shift to completing tasks on their own while continuing to manage and supervise others work schedules.

Position Details

Location: Lancaster County, PA

Dates: Beginning February 23.

Layoff period: Approximately July 3rd-August 17

Weekly schedule: M-Th 8-4:30 ( Fridays when required. Flexes with site location, tasks and job duration.)

Compensation: $27-31/hr depending on experience (paid bi-weekly)

• Lodging and per diem on jobs requiring overnight stays
• Mileage reimbursement and time payment for travel over normal commute

Hours: 32-40+ hrs per week (depending on season, weather and weekly tasks) • In the event of rare inclement and/or other severe weather, the crew may be called off for an unpaid day or day/s to ensure the safety of all participants until the threat passes; therefore, due to the nature of the work, 40 hours is not guaranteed.

Required qualifications:

• Age 21+ before the start of the position
• Must have reliable transportation.
• Must have a current driver’s License with a minimum of 3 years driving experience, and be able to pass Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check
• Must have the ability to model safe and professional behavior at all times
• Ability to perform manual, physical labor for up to 10 hours per day, exposed to the elements in outdoor settings
• Tree planting, farming and/or landscape experience
• Team workplace, intern and/or volunteer management experience
• Experience driving a truck with trailer
• Experience with tractor and/or skid steer operation
• Positive attitude and dependable work ethic
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Ability to work well with a group and independently
• Ability to follow orders and directions
• Ability to problem solve
• Understanding of agricultural systems and confidence working near livestock
• Strong interest in agroforestry and desire to be a part of the growing field
• Willingness to apply herbicides as part of summer tasks
• Herbicide applicators certification is preferable but not required
• CPR/First aid certification is preferable but not required

Duties and responsibilities:

• Act as a Crew Supervisor by facilitating teamwork, managing field-based tasks, ensuring and maintaining safety standards, teaching and monitoring project tasks, proper tool use, and body mechanics
• Serve as a Role Model by cultivating a safe and respectful workplace environment, modeling professional behavior and work ethics, encouraging personal development, facilitating team building, guiding crew dynamics and morale, and facilitating conflict resolution
• Work collaboratively with the TFG team
• Work with and report directly to the Project Manager
• Fully supervise crew members and participate in project work
• Maintain professional communication with clients, landowners, project partners, and staff
• Safely operate company vehicles and trailers
• Safely operate, maintain and return machinery and tools including side-by-side, tractor, skid-steer, auger, brush cutters and chainsaws

Projects may include:

• Agroforestry systems: Silvopastures, riparian buffers, alley-cropping, windbreaks, and others
• Implementation: including planting trees, prepping and distributing material, setting up protection systems, mulching, and project layout
• Maintenance: including weeding, pruning, making repairs, replanting, mowing, brush cutting, herbicide application, and data collection
• Nursery: including assisting Nursery Manager, maintenance, harvest, processing, and shipping

Working conditions:

• Work schedules and projects may change on short notice or due to weather
• Work settings require the ability to interact with people of varying cultures and perspectives positively.
• Work settings require the ability to safely interact with livestock on pasture
• Inclement weather conditions, including rain, gusty winds, foggy or decreased visibility.
• Potential of decreased or inclement air quality conditions due to wildfire smoke or smog.
• Warm temperatures and adverse heat conditions could include temperatures up to 90°F. We do adjust working conditions in hot weather to reduce chances of heat stress.
• Cold temperatures and adverse winter weather.
• Exposure to natural and environmental hazards such as poison ivy, tick and mosquito-borne illnesses, snakes, and potential for other wildlife encounters.

General physical requirements:

• Able to understand, adhere to, and communicate with others regarding hazards, procedures, and safety policies.
• Able to perform outside, physically demanding work, which includes carrying heavy loads, bending repeatedly, and walking distances over uneven terrain.
• Able to stay alert and engaged for extended periods of time.
• Able to independently manage known medical conditions with the resources available.
• Able to wear all required personal protective equipment, including internal or external safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, chaps, and appropriate footwear.
• Able to refrain from behaviors and actions that disrupt the work and safety of others.
• Able to cooperate with others to complete daily group tasks, responsibilities, and project work under potentially difficult conditions, variable daily routines, and limited personal time.
• Able to self-regulate or co-regulate emotions and actions when distressed or uncomfortable, with or without the support of others.
• Able to self-manage outdoor and environmental exposure (e.g., temperature, wind, sun, etc.) in a variety of weather conditions.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Trees For Graziers is an equal opportunity employer. Employment is based entirely on an individuals qualifications related to the scope of work. Trees For Graziers does not discriminate against race, creed, religion, gender, citizenship, ethnic or national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military status or personal beliefs protected by federal, state, or local law.