Operations Manager- MidWest

About ArborWorks LLC:

ArborWorks LLC is a nationwide leader in professional vegetation management, specializing in utility line clearance, fire remediation, and large-scale environmental projects. Established in 2003, we have built a reputation for quality and safety by leveraging advanced mechanized equipment and a skilled team of dedicated professionals. We prioritize innovation, safety, and exceptional service while fostering an outstanding safety culture recognized through industry-leading third-party ratings.

Whether you are starting your career or have years of experience in tree climbing, ArborWorks offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

Position Overview

As an Operations Manager at ArborWorks, you will be the driving force behind one of our core lines of business, leading people, shaping strategy, and ensuring operational excellence in the field. This role goes beyond day-to-day oversight; it’s about inspiring teams, strengthening client partnerships, and positioning ArborWorks as the trusted leader in vegetation management.

You’ll partner closely with Safety, Human Resources, and Business Development to align operations with company goals, deliver outstanding service, and support growth opportunities with utilities, municipalities, and public agencies. The right candidate brings proven leadership in vegetation management, a sharp eye for operational efficiency, and the ability to balance hands-on field support with big-picture strategy.

This is an opportunity for a results-driven leader who thrives in dynamic environments, values safety and innovation, and wants to make a measurable impact on both people and performance.

Key Responsibilities

Field Leadership & Operations

• Lead, coach, and develop General Forepersons and field crews to achieve operational excellence and maintain a strong safety culture.
• Oversee work assignments and ensure the right personnel, equipment, and resources are in place for efficient, safe, and high-quality execution.
• Monitor field production and reporting, analyzing performance metrics and driving corrective actions to meet or exceed company and client expectations.
• Conduct job walks and pre-/post-audits to confirm safety, compliance, and quality standards are consistently upheld.
• Resolve operational challenges in the field quickly and effectively, serving as a trusted point of escalation.

Client & Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong, professional relationships with clients, utilities, municipalities, and community stakeholders.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for client schedules, communications, and project performance.
• Act as liaison with homeowners and local stakeholders to address concerns and protect ArborWorks’ reputation.

Business Development & Growth

• Partner with Business Development, Sales, and Operations teams to identify opportunities for growth and expansion.
• Review RFPs, specifications, and contracts to evaluate project risks, opportunities, and requirements.
• Participate in bid walks and prepare accurate cost models by determining proper crew structures, production rates, and equipment needs.
• Support estimating, pricing, and final bid assembly for new and existing clients.
• Represent ArborWorks at industry events and client meetings, contributing to long-term relationship building and market presence.

Compliance, Culture & Collaboration

• Partner with the Safety team to ensure all operations meet or exceed compliance standards.
• Promote and uphold ArborWorks’ Core Values, creating a positive and high-performance culture across crews and teams.
• Support Human Resources with recruiting, onboarding, and workforce planning as needed.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience as an Operations Manager or in a similar leadership role within the vegetation management industry.
• Valid Driver’s License with clean driving record (Commercial Driver’s License a plus).
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Ability to manage P&L and analyze financial and production metrics.
• Ability to read and interpret maps, specifications, and bid documents.
• Familiarity with various bid formats (negotiated, hard bid, unit price).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for client and internal interactions.
• Demonstrated alignment with ArborWorks’ Core Values.
• Willingness to travel as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual (Spanish/English).
• ISA Certified Arborist.
• Experience with outreach, client development, and industry networking.

EEO Statement:

ArborWorks, LLC is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.