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Apprentice Climber Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Climber

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Prior experience as an Apprentice Climber or equivalent tree work experience required. * Demonstrated proficiency in advanced climbing, rigging, and pruning techniques. Knowledge, Skills, and ...

Climber

Taylors, SC · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Prior experience as an Apprentice Climber or equivalent tree work experience required. * Demonstrated proficiency in advanced climbing, rigging, and pruning techniques. Knowledge, Skills, and ...

Climber

Chalfont, PA · On-site

$20.50 - $28.25/hr

Prior experience as an Apprentice Climber or equivalent tree work experience required. * Demonstrated proficiency in advanced climbing, rigging, and pruning techniques. Knowledge, Skills, and ...

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Apprentice Climber information

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$12

$24

$35

How much do apprentice climber jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice climber in the United States is $24.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship job?

Apprentice climbers in specialized fields such as telecommunications, electrical work, or wind turbine maintenance tend to earn the highest wages among apprenticeship roles. These positions often require technical skills, safety certifications, and working at heights, with wages increasing as experience and certifications grow.

What are Apprentice Climbers?

Apprentice Climbers are entry-level workers who assist experienced climbers, often in industries such as tree care, utility maintenance, or construction. They learn how to safely ascend and descend trees or structures, use climbing equipment, and perform tasks like pruning, cutting, or inspection. Under supervision, Apprentice Climbers gain hands-on experience and training to advance to more independent or specialized roles. This position is ideal for individuals interested in outdoor, physically demanding work and willing to learn proper climbing techniques and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Apprentice Climber vs Tree Worker?

AspectApprentice ClimberTree Worker
CertificationsBasic climbing and safety certifications, on-the-job trainingAdvanced climbing, safety, and arborist certifications
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised climbing tasksFull-time climbing, pruning, and tree removal
Job RoleAssists experienced climbers, learns climbing techniquesPerforms tree maintenance, pruning, and removals

Apprentice Climbers are in training, focusing on learning climbing skills and safety procedures under supervision. Tree Workers are experienced professionals performing tree care tasks independently. The main difference lies in experience level and responsibilities, with Apprentice Climbers still developing skills, while Tree Workers execute full tasks in the industry.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship trade?

Apprentice climbers in trades such as electrical line work, telecommunications, or wind turbine installation often earn higher wages due to the specialized skills and safety certifications required. These trades typically offer higher pay during apprenticeships compared to other fields, reflecting the physical demands and technical expertise involved.

What are some common challenges Apprentice Climbers face during their training period?

Apprentice Climbers often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, learning to use specialized climbing and safety equipment, and developing the necessary technical skills to work efficiently at heights. Additionally, adjusting to outdoor work in varying weather conditions can be difficult for newcomers. However, these challenges are typically addressed through on-the-job training, mentorship from experienced climbers, and adherence to strict safety protocols, helping apprentices gain confidence and proficiency over time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Climber, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Climber, you need a basic understanding of tree biology, climbing techniques, and safe work practices, often supported by a high school diploma and a willingness to pursue industry-recognized certifications. Familiarity with climbing gear, chainsaws, rigging systems, and aerial lift equipment is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and a commitment to safety are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and effective arboricultural operations while minimizing risks.

How much do climbing arborists get paid?

Climbing arborists, or tree climbers, typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000. Pay varies based on experience, certifications, and geographic location, and the job often requires climbing skills and knowledge of safety equipment.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Apprentice climbers can be of various ages, and 27 is not too old to start an apprenticeship in climbing or related trades. Many programs welcome motivated individuals regardless of age, especially if they meet physical requirements and are willing to learn new skills such as working at heights and using climbing equipment. Age is generally not a barrier to entering an apprenticeship in this field.
More about Apprentice Climber jobs
What cities are hiring for Apprentice Climber jobs? Cities with the most Apprentice Climber job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Climber jobs? The most popular types of Climber jobs are:
What states have the most Apprentice Climber jobs? States with the most job openings for Apprentice Climber jobs include:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Climber job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $51,611 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

$48K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Summary Florence Electricity Department (FED) is a municipal utility providing electric service to the Florence, AL/Lauderdale County area. FED offers a customer service-driven environment to provide high quality, low cost, safe, and reliable electric service to our customers The Apprentice Climber works under the direction and supervision of a Tree Foreman. Apprentice Climber is in active training to learn to cut and trim trees at and above ground level and to advance to Climber classification.

Work is performed from a bucket truck or by using a tree-trimming saddle, climbing ropes, rigging ropes, etc. The Apprentice Climber learns to use tools and equipment necessary to do tree trimming work. Essential Duties and Responsibilities and Supervision Required Cut and trim trees at and above ground level.

Operates tree trimming tools and equipment necessary to perform work. Attends and participates in safety meetings and training sessions about tree trimming. Feeds brush and limbs into a chipper.

Applies herbicides. Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications, Experience, Training, & License High school graduate or GED.

Valid Unrestricted Commercial Class A Driver's License or be able to obtain a commercial license within six months of employment. Required Knowledge Skills Abilities Ability to climb, cut, and trim trees above ground level using rope, saddle, and tree climbing spurs. Ability to learn rigging and roping techniques used in trimming and cutting trees.

Ability to use power chain saw, hydraulic saw, and pruners (hydraulic and manual). Ability to drive a chipper truck, tow, and back chipper in close spaces. Ability to withstand extreme heights.

Ability to safely apply herbicides. Be able to work overtime and be available for emergency work. Ability to maintain good public and employee relations and respect customer's property.

Physical Demands (With or Without Accommodations): Must be able to climb, stoop, bend, and lift up to 100 lbs. Must be able to work at extreme heights. Must be able to work in adverse weather conditions.

Must be able to drive vehicles. Equipment/Tools Used: Pickup truck; bucket truck; chipper truck; rope, saddle, and climbing spurs; chain saws; hydraulic saws; hydraulic and manual pruners; two-way radio Additional Note: The above job description is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibility; specific position assignments will vary depending on the Department's business needs and assigned by the Manager. All employees in pursuit of their job duties should demonstrate the behaviors of the FED Mission & Vision.

Applications may be used for up to ninety (90) days for similar job postings. The City of Florence, Alabama is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.