Bratt Tree Service is a family-owned and operated business with deep roots in the Twin Cities community. Founded in 1991 and proudly transitioned to the second generation in 2019, Bratt Tree has built a reputation for excellence, safety, and professional tree care across the entire metro area. Leading the team is Connor Walsh, a Certified Tree Professional with over 25 years of hands-on field experience — and you'll still find him working side by side with the crew every single day.
Our comprehensive fleet includes our own 20-ton, 40-ton, and Grapple Saw cranes — giving our team the tools and capabilities to tackle any job, big or small. When you join Bratt Tree, you're not just getting a job. You're joining a team that takes pride in their craft, looks out for each other, and delivers results that homeowners and property managers across the Twin Cities trust.
Position Overview
We're looking for a skilled, motivated Tree Climber to join the Bratt Tree crew. This is a hands-on, outdoors-every-day role for someone who loves working at height, takes safety seriously, and wants to grow their career with a company that invests in its people. You'll work alongside an experienced team performing tree removals, pruning, rigging, and more across residential and commercial properties throughout the Twin Cities metro.
Key Responsibilities
Perform technical tree climbing using proper rope and saddle techniques — safely ascending and descending trees of all sizes
Execute tree removals of all sizes and complexity levels, incorporating various rigging systems as needed
Perform pruning operations including deadwood removal, crown thinning, crown reduction, crown raising, and clearance pruning in accordance with ANSI A300 standards
Operate and maintain chainsaws, hand saws, pole pruners, and other tree care equipment safely and efficiently
Set up and manage rigging systems to safely lower branches and sections of trees
Assist with cabling, bracing, and staking trees to support structural integrity
Operate chipping equipment and assist with debris loading and cleanup
Perform ground crew duties as needed, including chipping, brush dragging, log chunking, and running rope
Assess tree health and identify signs of disease, pest infestation, or structural hazards
Maintain a clean, safe, and organized jobsite — including proper setup of traffic control and pedestrian safety zones
Operate company vehicles and equipment in compliance with DOT and company standards
Communicate professionally with clients on-site and uphold Bratt Tree's reputation for quality service
Follow all ANSI, OSHA, and company safety guidelines without exception
Qualifications
Required
Demonstrated experience in tree climbing using rope and saddle (no spikes for pruning)
Working knowledge of proper rigging techniques and climbing gear
Ability to safely operate chainsaws and other power tools
Strong physical stamina — this role requires working at heights and performing strenuous labor in all weather conditions
Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening
Strong communication skills and a team-first attitude
Preferred
ISA Certified Arborist credential (or actively working toward certification)
CDL Class B license or ability to obtain
Experience with crane-assisted removals
Knowledge of tree biology, tree identification, and ANSI A300 pruning standards
Experience leading or mentoring ground crew members
Work Environment
This is a full-time, year-round outdoor position servicing the Twin Cities metro area. Work is performed in all weather conditions — from warm summer days to cold Minnesota winters. The role involves physically demanding tasks including heavy lifting, climbing, and the use of power tools and heavy equipment. Our team is well-equipped and well-supported: Bratt Tree provides top-of-the-line gear, cranes, and company-provided tools so you can focus on doing your best work safely.
Benefits
At Bratt Tree Service, we take care of our team. Here's what we offer:
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
401(k) with Company Match
MN Paid Family & Medical Leave
Paid Holidays, PTO, and Safe & Sick Time
Company-provided training and ongoing professional development
Company uniforms
Tool loan program — get set up with the best climbing gear available
Company-provided chainsaws with sharp chains
Company-provided PPE: gloves, helmets, ear protection, eye protection, hand and body warmers