Tree Surgery Careers: Full-Time and Part-Time Opportunities

Have you noticed a tree in your yard that looks unhealthy or out of place? Tree surgeons play a key role in maintaining tree health and ensuring safety. Whether it's pruning, diagnosing diseases, or removing dangerous limbs, tree surgeons help keep your property safe and your trees thriving. If you love working outdoors and making a difference in your community, this career could be the right fit.

1. The Growing Need for Tree Surgeons

As urban areas expand and more people care about their landscapes, the demand for skilled tree surgeons is rising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for tree trimmers and pruners is expected to grow 9% from 2019 to 2029, indicating steady job availability in this field. Tree surgeons help with storm damage prevention, power-line maintenance, and tree health.

2. What Does a Tree Surgeon Do?

Tree surgeons do more than just trim trees. Their tasks include:

• Pruning: Removing dead or diseased branches.
• Tree health assessment: Diagnosing and treating diseases or infestations.
• Emergency tree removal: Taking down hazardous trees, especially after storms.

This work requires climbing skills, a deep understanding of tree biology, and physical strength.

3. Career Pathways for Tree Surgeons

Tree surgery offers a clear path to advancement. Positions include:

• Ground Crew Member: Assist with site cleanup and basic pruning.
• Climber/Trimmer: Perform aerial pruning and limb removal.
• Crew Leader: Manage team schedules, safety, and operations.
• Arborist Specialist: Perform tree health assessments and mentor other staff.

As you gain experience, you’ll move up in the industry with more responsibility and higher pay.

4. Entry-Level Opportunities and No Prior Experience Required

Good news: You don’t need prior experience to get started! Many employers offer on-the-job training, covering essential skills like using a chainsaw, climbing with safety equipment, and understanding tree care protocols.

Part-Time and Full-Time Roles

• Part-Time: 15–30 hours/week during peak seasons, with pay typically between $20–$25/hour.
• Full-Time: 35–40 hours/week year-round, with an average hourly pay of $25.41. Overtime pay is often available during storms or emergencies.

5. Where to Find Tree Surgeon Jobs

Tree surgeons can find jobs with a variety of employers. Some notable companies currently hiring for these roles include:

• Bartlett Tree Experts: A leading tree care company with openings for tree surgeons and arborists.
• Davey Tree: A well-known company offering positions for tree trimmers and climbers across the U.S.
• SavATree: Another major player in the tree care industry hiring tree surgeons for various locations.
• ArborPro: A staffing agency specializing in landscaping and tree care jobs.

You can find these listings on job boards or the companies' career pages.

6. Salary and Benefits for Tree Surgeons

• Part-Time: Around $20–$25/hour during peak seasons.
• Full-Time: Average hourly wage of $25.41, which is about $52,850 annually. Overtime pay is available for emergency work during storms.

Most employers also offer benefits like:

• Health and dental plans to cover medical and family needs.
• Retirement savings options, including employer contributions.
• Paid leave for recovery after busy seasons.
• Support for certification in tree care, including funding for ISA Arborist exams.

These benefits ensure long-term security and career growth.

7. The Rewards of Tree Surgery

Tree surgery isn’t just about cutting down trees. It's about maintaining public safety, preserving green spaces, and improving property value. Tree surgeons see immediate results in their work, often noticing the difference after a job is completed. It’s a rewarding field where you directly improve your community’s landscape and safety.

8. How to Start Your Tree Surgery Career

To get started as a tree surgeon:

1. Research job openings on company websites or job boards.
2. Submit an application highlighting any outdoor or tool-handling experience.
3. Prepare for an interview, discussing your physical readiness and willingness to learn.
4. Complete on-the-job training once hired, working alongside experienced teams.

Tree surgery offers hands-on experience and the opportunity to grow professionally while making a meaningful impact.

📌 Reference Links

• https://work.chron.com/salary-tree-trimmer-4604.html
• https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/statistics/tree-trimmer-job-and-pay-stats/
• https://www.indeed.com/q-Tree-Surgeon-jobs.html
• https://jobs.davey.com/job/Trimmer-Trainee/207156-en_US/
• https://www.savatreecareers.com/jobs/general-tree-care/