Arborist Foreman/Woman Position at Silverback Treeworks Ltd. – Join Our Team in Beautiful British Columbia
Visa Note
International candidates are welcome to apply for this position! Silverback Treeworks Ltd. is open to hiring candidates with or without a valid Canadian work permit. However, applicants must confirm their visa/work permit eligibility directly with the employer before proceeding with the application process. This is an excellent opportunity for skilled arborists looking to relocate to Canada and build a career in one of the most beautiful regions of North America.
About Silverback Treeworks Ltd.
Silverback Treeworks Ltd. is a respected tree service company operating in British Columbia, Canada. We specialize in professional arboriculture services, including tree removal, pruning, health assessments, and environmental consultation. Our company is known for its commitment to safety, quality workmanship, and environmental stewardship. We are currently seeking an experienced Arborist Foreman/Woman to join our team and help us continue providing exceptional service to our clients across the Lower Mainland region.
Location and Work Environment
This position is based in Burnaby, British Columbia, with work locations extending throughout the region including Squamish, BC. The successful candidate will be working primarily outdoors in various environments, from urban settings to natural forested areas. British Columbia offers a stunning natural environment with mountains, forests, and coastlines that provide an unparalleled quality of life for residents. The region experiences a mild climate with four distinct seasons, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Position Overview
We are seeking a qualified Arborist Foreman/Woman to lead our tree service operations. This is a permanent, full-time position offering competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits. The successful candidate will be responsible for supervising crews, ensuring safety protocols are followed, providing technical expertise, and maintaining high standards of work quality. This role is ideal for experienced arborists looking to advance their career in a leadership position within a growing company.
Compensation Package
We offer a competitive hourly wage ranging from $37.00 to $45.00 per hour, with room for negotiation based on experience and qualifications. This position is based on a 40-hour work week, with opportunities for overtime pay, particularly during busy seasons and weekend work. Our compensation package is designed to reward skilled professionals and provide financial stability in one of Canada’s most desirable regions to live and work.
Benefits and Perks
Silverback Treeworks Ltd. provides an excellent benefits package to all full-time employees. This includes comprehensive dental and health care plans, paramedical services coverage, and group insurance benefits. We believe in investing in our employees’ well-being and professional development, which is why we offer learning and training opportunities paid by the employer. Additionally, we provide team-building activities to foster a positive work environment and a sense of community among our staff.
Additional Benefits
As part of our commitment to our employees, we offer transportation to and from work sites, parking availability, and travel insurance. We understand the importance of work-life balance and offer flexible scheduling options including variable or compressed work weeks. These benefits are designed to make employment with Silverback Treeworks Ltd. not just rewarding financially, but also sustainable in the long term.
Key Responsibilities
The Arborist Foreman/Woman will be responsible for hiring, supervising, and scheduling staff to ensure efficient operations. You will resolve work problems by providing technical advice to increase the value and functionality of client properties. Maintaining accurate work records and logs is essential for project tracking and quality assurance. The role requires the ability to read blueprints and drawings to understand project specifications and requirements accurately.
Technical Leadership
In this position, you will provide technical expertise and guidance to crew members, ensuring that all work is performed to the highest standards. You will identify and resolve work problems as they arise, recommending measures to improve productivity and product quality. Your technical knowledge will be critical in making informed decisions about tree care, safety protocols, and equipment usage. This leadership role requires strong communication skills and the ability to train and mentor less experienced team members.
Safety and Compliance
Safety is our top priority in all operations. The Arborist Foreman/Woman will be responsible for enforcing safety protocols, conducting regular safety inspections, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and industry standards. You will conduct toolbox meetings, maintain safety records, and respond to any incidents or near misses according to company policy. Your commitment to safety will help create a culture where everyone can work confidently and securely.
Required Experience and Skills
Candidates must have extensive experience with chain saw operation, including various types and sizes of saws for different cutting applications. Experience operating a pick-up truck for equipment transport is essential. Proficiency with small engine equipment such as chippers, stump grinders, and other arboricultural tools is required. Skidsteer operation experience is necessary for site preparation and cleanup tasks.
Environmental Knowledge
Specialized environmental skills and knowledge are critical for this role, including understanding local tree species, diseases, pest management, and environmental regulations. You should be familiar with sustainable arboriculture practices and how to balance tree care with environmental preservation. This knowledge is particularly important in British Columbia, where environmental considerations are often paramount in tree care decisions.
Tree Service Expertise
Comprehensive experience in tree service operations is required, including pruning techniques, tree removal methods, cabling and bracing, and diagnostic assessment of tree health. You should be able to identify structural defects, disease symptoms, and environmental stressors in trees. Your expertise will be essential in providing accurate assessments and recommendations to clients regarding tree care options and potential risks.
Qualifications and Requirements
While specific educational requirements are not listed, candidates should possess certification in arboriculture (such as ISA Certified Arborist) or equivalent experience. A valid driver’s license with a clean record is required due to the nature of the work. Physical fitness is essential, as the job involves climbing trees, operating heavy equipment, and working in various weather conditions. Candidates must be comfortable working at heights and in physically demanding situations.
Language Requirements
Language requirements are not specified for this position. However, effective communication skills in English are necessary for safety reasons, client interactions, and team coordination. If English is not your first language, you should be able to communicate effectively with crew members and clients. Additional language skills may be beneficial in serving diverse communities in the Lower Mainland region.
Work Schedule and Availability
This is a full-time, permanent position requiring flexibility in scheduling. Weekend work may be required during busy periods or for emergency services. Overtime is available and may be necessary to meet project deadlines and client expectations. The position starts as soon as possible, so we encourage interested candidates to apply promptly. The ability to adapt to changing schedules and weather conditions is essential for success in this role.
Application Process
To apply for this position, interested candidates should submit their application directly to Silverback Treeworks Ltd. The employer accepts applications from Canadian citizens and permanent or temporary residents of Canada, as well as other candidates with or without a valid Canadian work permit. When applying, please include a detailed resume highlighting your experience with chain saws, pick-up trucks, small engine equipment, skidsteer operation, and specialized environmental skills and knowledge in tree service.
What to Include in Your Application
Your application should demonstrate your leadership abilities and experience supervising crews. Include examples of how you’ve resolved work problems and provided technical advice in previous positions. Detail your experience reading blueprints and drawings, maintaining work records, and implementing measures to improve productivity and product quality. Certifications in arboriculture or related fields should be clearly listed.
Interview Process
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview that may include both technical and behavioral questions. The interview process may involve a practical assessment of your arboriculture skills and equipment operation abilities. Be prepared to discuss your approach to safety, crew management, and technical problem-solving. References from previous employers will be requested, so ensure you have professional contacts who can speak to your qualifications and work ethic.
Life in British Columbia
Living and working in British Columbia offers an exceptional quality of life. The region boasts world-class outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, skiing, fishing, and kayaking. The Lower Mainland has a diverse and multicultural population, with excellent healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Vancouver and surrounding areas offer a vibrant arts scene, diverse culinary options, and a mild climate that allows for year-round outdoor activities.
Immigration Support
While this employer is open to international candidates, it’s important to research Canadian immigration pathways and requirements. British Columbia has specific immigration programs for skilled workers, and there may be provincial nomination opportunities for qualified arborists. Consider connecting with settlement services in the area that can help with the transition to life in Canada, including language training, credential recognition, and community integration.
Housing and Cost of Living
The cost of living in the Lower Mainland varies by location, with Burnaby offering a balance between urban amenities and more affordable housing compared to Vancouver proper. Consider factors like commute times, access to public transportation, and proximity to work sites when choosing housing. Many arborists find success in communities along transit lines or with easy access to major highways for commuting between work sites throughout the region.
Why Choose Silverback Treeworks Ltd.?
Silverback Treeworks Ltd. offers more than just a job – we provide a career path in a growing industry with opportunities for advancement. Our commitment to employee development, safety, and quality work creates a positive work environment where skilled professionals can thrive. Joining our team means becoming part of a company that values your expertise, invests in your growth, and contributes to maintaining the natural beauty of British Columbia for generations to come.