Stump Grinder Operator

Gray’s Tree Service, a trusted leader in professional tree care for over 25 years in Central Alabama, is seeking a dedicated Stump Grinder Operator to join its growing team. As a year-round operation with a large fleet of specialized equipment and a team of certified arborists, Gray’s Tree Service offers stable employment, opportunities for advancement, and a supportive, safety-focused work environment. The Stump Grinder Operator plays a vital role in delivering expert tree care services, ensuring customer satisfaction, and upholding the company’s reputation for quality and professionalism.

Responsibilities

• Operate stump grinding equipment safely and efficiently to remove tree stumps at or below ground level, including in tight or challenging spaces (training provided for motivated candidates).
• Drive company vehicles with trailers to and from job sites each day.
• Perform pre- and post-operation inspections and routine maintenance on equipment, including cleaning, lubricating, and checking for defects.
• Prepare and secure work sites by identifying underground utilities, setting up safety zones and signage, and coordinating with team members.
• Dispose of or backfill mulch and debris as required; assist with seeding or grading for lawn restoration when needed.
• Communicate effectively with crew members and supervisors; participate in job-site safety briefings.
• Follow all company and OSHA safety policies and use required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Be available for flexible hours and respond to emergency or storm-related call-outs as part of a 24/7 emergency service team.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license; CDL preferred or may be required depending on equipment needs.
• Experience operating heavy or specialized landscaping machinery, especially stump grinders, is preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to perform minor preventive maintenance.
• Attention to detail, spatial awareness, and ability to work safely in tight or uneven environments.
• Physical ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. regularly, stand for extended periods, and work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Team-oriented with strong communication skills.
• Ability to arrive at the office by 7am and work Monday through Friday, with a rotating Saturday schedule.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and respond to emergency work as needed.

Benefits

• Competitive pay with opportunities for 40+ hours per week
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays for work-life balance
• Overtime opportunities during storm cleanup and peak seasons
• Long-term disability insurance (employer paid)
• Short-term disability insurance (employer paid)
• Basic life & AD&D insurance (employer paid)
• 401(k) retirement plan with up to 4% company match
• Flexible insurance options : Choose from health, dental, and vision plans to fit your needs and budget
• Health Insurance (Cigna Plans): Multiple plan options, including OAP (Open Access Plus), OAP IN, and HDHP (High-Deductible Health Plan) with HSA compatibility
• Dental Insurance (Cigna Plans): PPO Low and PPO High plan options
• Vision Insurance (Cigna Plan): Comprehensive coverage for exams, lenses, and frames
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with $250 employer contribution (for HDHP participants) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
• Pre-tax commuter benefits (parking, transit, vanpool)
• Legal assistance plan
• Supplemental coverage options: critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance