Asplundh Reviews: Should You Join Their Tree Crew? (Insider Insights)

Let’s talk about future-proofing. In the ever-changing landscape of the tree care industry, making informed career choices is more critical than ever. The intent here is to explore a career with Asplundh Tree Expert Co., a major player in vegetation management. Should you consider joining their tree crew? We’ll delve into the realities of working for Asplundh, offering insider insights to help you make the right decision for your future. I’ll share my experiences and knowledge to guide you.

Asplundh Reviews: Should You Join Their Tree Crew? (Insider Insights)

Deciding whether to join a tree crew, especially one as large as Asplundh, involves weighing several factors. These include job stability, pay, work conditions, training opportunities, and career advancement prospects. My aim here is to provide a balanced perspective, drawing on my experiences in the field and research into what others are saying about working for Asplundh. I’ll break down the pros and cons, offering a realistic view of what you can expect.

Understanding Asplundh Tree Expert Co.

Asplundh is a massive corporation specializing in utility line clearing and vegetation management. They operate across the United States and internationally. Their primary work involves trimming and removing trees and vegetation around power lines to prevent outages. This work is crucial for maintaining reliable electricity service.

For over a decade, I’ve worked in the forestry and arboriculture sector. I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact companies like Asplundh have on the industry. They provide numerous jobs, but the nature of the work can be demanding.

The Appeal of Joining Asplundh

There are several reasons why someone might consider joining Asplundh.

The Work Environment

Demanding Physical Labor: Tree work is inherently physically demanding. Expect long hours, heavy lifting, and working in all types of weather. It’s not a desk job!
High-Risk Environment: Working around power lines is dangerous. Safety is paramount, but accidents can and do happen.
Travel and Time Away from Home: Depending on the location and the contract, you may be required to travel and work away from home for extended periods. This can be tough on personal life.
Pressure to Meet Deadlines: Utility companies demand efficiency, and Asplundh crews are often under pressure to meet tight deadlines. This can lead to stress and potential shortcuts.

Pay and Compensation

Starting Pay: Starting pay for ground workers is often entry-level and may not be commensurate with the physical demands and risks of the job.
Potential for Overtime: The long hours can translate into significant overtime pay, which can be a major draw for some.
Union Representation: In some areas, Asplundh crews are unionized, which can provide better pay, benefits, and working conditions. Check if the local crew is unionized.

Training and Safety

Initial Training: Asplundh provides initial training, which typically includes safety procedures, equipment operation, and basic tree care techniques.
Ongoing Training: Ongoing training is essential, but the quality and frequency can vary depending on the location and supervisor.
Safety Culture: While safety is emphasized, the pressure to meet deadlines can sometimes compromise safety practices. It’s crucial to prioritize safety and speak up if you feel unsafe.

Career Advancement

Opportunities for Advancement: As I mentioned earlier, there are opportunities for advancement. However, competition can be fierce.
Requirements for Advancement: Advancing typically requires demonstrating competence, obtaining certifications (such as ISA Certified Arborist), and gaining experience.
Time Commitment: Climbing the ladder takes time and dedication. You’ll need to invest in your skills and knowledge.

Asplundh Reviews: What Others Are Saying

To get a more complete picture, I researched what current and former Asplundh employees say about their experiences. Here’s a summary of common themes:

Positive Reviews:
- Good training programs
- Opportunity to learn the trade
- Stable employment
- Good benefits
- Potential for overtime pay
Negative Reviews:
- Long hours
- Demanding physical labor
- Dangerous work environment
- Pressure to meet deadlines
- Low starting pay
- Travel requirements

It’s important to note that experiences can vary depending on the location, supervisor, and specific crew.

Asplundh vs. Other Tree Care Companies

When considering a career in tree care, it’s worth comparing Asplundh to other options.

Smaller Tree Care Companies: These companies often offer a more personalized work environment, with closer relationships between employees and management. However, they may offer less job security and fewer benefits.
Municipal Tree Care Departments: Working for a city or town can provide more stable hours and better work-life balance. However, the pay may be lower than in the private sector.
Utility Companies Directly: Some utility companies have their own in-house tree care crews. This can offer good benefits and job security, but competition for these positions can be high.

Case Study: A Day in the Life of an Asplundh Ground Worker

Let’s paint a picture of what a typical day might look like for a ground worker on an Asplundh crew.

5:00 AM: Wake up, get ready, and grab a quick breakfast. The workday starts early.

5:30 AM: Meet at the yard or designated meeting point. Load equipment into the trucks.

6:00 AM: Drive to the job site. This could be anywhere within the service area.

7:00 AM: Arrive at the job site. Safety briefing and job hazard analysis (JHA).

7:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Ground work. This could involve:

Dragging brush
Feeding the chipper
Raking and cleaning up debris
Setting up traffic control
Assisting the climber

12:00 PM – 12:30 PM: Lunch break.

12:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Continue ground work. The afternoon can be just as demanding as the morning.

4:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Clean up the job site and load equipment back into the trucks.

4:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Drive back to the yard.

5:30 PM: Unload equipment and debrief.

6:00 PM: Head home, exhausted but satisfied with a day’s work.

This is just a sample day, and the specific tasks can vary depending on the job and the crew.

Essential Skills and Qualifications for Joining Asplundh

While Asplundh provides training, having certain skills and qualifications can increase your chances of getting hired and succeeding.

Physical Fitness: Tree work is physically demanding, so you need to be in good shape.
Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is essential, and a commercial driver’s license (CDL) may be required for some positions.
Tree Care Knowledge: Any prior knowledge of tree care techniques is a plus.
Safety Certifications: Having safety certifications, such as OSHA 10 or first aid/CPR, can make you a more attractive candidate.
Mechanical Aptitude: Being able to operate and maintain equipment is a valuable skill.
Teamwork Skills: Tree work is a team effort, so you need to be able to work well with others.

Navigating the Application and Interview Process

If you decide to apply to Asplundh, here are some tips for navigating the application and interview process.

Online Application: Fill out the online application completely and accurately.
Resume: Highlight any relevant experience, skills, and certifications.
Interview: Dress professionally and be prepared to answer questions about your work experience, skills, and safety knowledge.
Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the job, the company, and the training program.
Follow Up: Send a thank-you note after the interview.

Safety First: A Non-Negotiable Priority

I cannot overemphasize the importance of safety in tree work. It’s not just a policy; it’s a way of life. Here are some key safety considerations:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including a hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
Electrical Hazards: Be aware of the dangers of working around power lines and follow all safety protocols.
Equipment Safety: Inspect equipment before each use and report any defects.
Communication: Maintain clear communication with your crew members.
Situational Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards.
Emergency Procedures: Know the emergency procedures and how to respond in case of an accident.

Wood Processing and Firewood Preparation: A Side Hustle?

Many tree care workers supplement their income by processing wood and selling firewood. This can be a great way to make extra money, but it requires additional equipment and knowledge. I’ve done it for years, and here’s what I’ve learned:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Chainsaw: A reliable chainsaw is essential for cutting logs into manageable lengths. I recommend a professional-grade saw with a 20-inch bar.
Log Splitter: A log splitter makes splitting firewood much easier and safer than using an axe. I prefer a hydraulic splitter with at least 20 tons of splitting force.
Wheelbarrow: A wheelbarrow is useful for moving logs and firewood around your property.
Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear when processing wood, including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed boots.

Wood Drying Techniques

Air Drying: The most common method for drying firewood. Stack the wood in a well-ventilated area and allow it to dry for 6-12 months.
Kiln Drying: A faster method for drying firewood, but it requires specialized equipment.
Moisture Meter: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of the wood. Firewood should have a moisture content of 20% or less for optimal burning.

Firewood Sales and Marketing

Pricing: Research the local market and price your firewood competitively.
Advertising: Advertise your firewood for sale online, in local newspapers, and on community bulletin boards.
Delivery: Offer delivery services to attract more customers.
Customer Service: Provide excellent customer service to build a loyal customer base.

The Future of Tree Care: Trends and Opportunities

The tree care industry is constantly evolving. Here are some trends and opportunities to watch:

Technology: New technologies, such as drones and GPS-enabled equipment, are being used to improve efficiency and safety.
Sustainability: There is a growing emphasis on sustainable tree care practices, such as tree preservation and responsible wood utilization.
Urban Forestry: With increasing urbanization, there is a growing need for skilled urban foresters to manage trees in cities and towns.
Climate Change: Climate change is impacting tree health and distribution, creating new challenges and opportunities for tree care professionals.

Weighing the Pros and Cons: Is Asplundh Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision of whether to join Asplundh is a personal one. Consider the following:

Your Physical Condition: Are you physically fit and able to handle demanding labor?
Your Tolerance for Risk: Are you comfortable working in a high-risk environment?
Your Career Goals: What are your long-term career goals? Does Asplundh offer opportunities to achieve them?
Your Personal Life: Are you willing to travel and work away from home?
Your Financial Needs: Does the pay and benefits meet your financial needs?

If you’re looking for a stable job with good training opportunities and the potential for advancement, Asplundh may be a good fit. However, be prepared for long hours, demanding labor, and a potentially dangerous work environment.

Alternatives to Asplundh: Exploring Other Paths in Arboriculture

If Asplundh doesn’t seem like the right fit, don’t be discouraged. The field of arboriculture offers a wide range of career paths.

Arborist: An arborist specializes in the care of individual trees. They diagnose and treat tree diseases, prune trees, and provide other tree care services.
Urban Forester: An urban forester manages trees in urban environments. They develop and implement urban forestry plans, plant trees, and educate the public about the benefits of trees.
Landscape Architect: A landscape architect designs outdoor spaces, including parks, gardens, and residential landscapes. They often work with trees and other plants.
Horticulturist: A horticulturist studies the science of growing plants. They work in a variety of settings, including nurseries, greenhouses, and botanical gardens.
Researcher: A researcher studies trees and other plants to improve our understanding of their biology and ecology. They work in universities, government agencies, and private companies.

The Importance of Continued Learning and Certification

Regardless of which career path you choose, continued learning and certification are essential for success in the arboriculture industry.

ISA Certified Arborist: The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) offers a Certified Arborist credential, which is widely recognized and respected in the industry.
Tree Care Academy: Tree Care Academy, Inc. offers specialized training in aerial rescue, chainsaw safety, chipper safety, electrical hazards awareness, and more.
TCIA Accreditation: The Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) offers accreditation for tree care companies that meet certain standards of safety and professionalism.
Online Courses: Many online courses are available on topics such as tree identification, pruning techniques, and tree disease diagnosis.
Workshops and Seminars: Attend workshops and seminars to learn from experts and network with other professionals.

The Ethical Considerations of Tree Care

As tree care professionals, we have a responsibility to protect and preserve trees. This includes:

Proper Pruning Techniques: Prune trees properly to maintain their health and structural integrity.
Disease and Pest Management: Diagnose and treat tree diseases and pests in a responsible manner.
Tree Preservation: Protect trees during construction and other development projects.
Responsible Wood Utilization: Utilize wood resources in a sustainable manner.
Education: Educate the public about the benefits of trees and the importance of tree care.

My Personal Journey in the Tree Care Industry

I’ve been involved in the tree care industry for over a decade, and it’s been a rewarding but challenging journey. I started as a ground worker, just like many others, and worked my way up to become a certified arborist and tree care business owner.

I’ve learned a lot along the way, both from my own experiences and from the mentors who have guided me. I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the ugly of the industry, and I’m passionate about sharing my knowledge and helping others succeed.

My advice to anyone considering a career in tree care is to be prepared for hard work, prioritize safety, and never stop learning. It’s a field that requires dedication and resilience, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.

The Takeaway: Making an Informed Decision

Deciding whether to join Asplundh’s tree crew is a significant decision. You need to weigh the potential benefits (job security, training, career advancement) against the realities of the job (demanding labor, high-risk environment, potential for travel). By researching, talking to current and former employees, and considering your personal circumstances, you can make an informed decision that’s right for you.

Next Steps: Research and Networking

Here are some actionable steps you can take:

Research Asplundh: Visit Asplundh’s website and read reviews from current and former employees.
Network: Talk to people who work or have worked for Asplundh.
Consider Alternatives: Explore other tree care companies or career paths in arboriculture.
Get Certified: Obtain relevant certifications, such as ISA Certified Arborist.
Prioritize Safety: Always prioritize safety in everything you do.

The tree care industry offers a rewarding career for those who are passionate about trees and willing to work hard. With the right skills, knowledge, and attitude, you can build a successful and fulfilling career in this field. Good luck!

Asplundh Reviews: Should You Join Their Tree Crew? (Insider Insights)