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Apprentice Climber Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Technician Apprentice

Lincoln, CA · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Climbing and carrying a ladder * Stand, walk, reach, balance, climb, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl ... The Technician Apprentice must be able to follow a set of procedures, sustain concentration while ...

Technician Apprentice

Lincoln, CA · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

Climbing and carrying a ladder * Stand, walk, reach, balance, climb, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl ... The Technician Apprentice must be able to follow a set of procedures, sustain concentration while ...

Electrical Apprentice

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Seeking a skilled Electrical Apprentice with 1 - 3 years of experience to join our dynamic team ... Prolonged periods standing, kneeling, bending, and climbing ladders or scaffolding. * Must be ...

We are looking for apprentice(s) to help assist our Sign Service Technicans. * Assist with ... Regular climbing, lifting, kneeling, crawling, and overhead work * Exposure to all weather ...

Seeking a skilled Electrical Apprentice with 1 - 3 years of experience to join our dynamic team ... Prolonged periods standing, kneeling, bending, and climbing ladders or scaffolding. * Must be ...

Seeking a skilled Electrical Apprentice with 1 - 3 years of experience to join our dynamic team ... Prolonged periods standing, kneeling, bending, and climbing ladders or scaffolding. * Must be ...

Electrical Apprentice

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Seeking a skilled Electrical Apprentice with 1 - 3 years of experience to join our dynamic team ... Prolonged periods standing, kneeling, bending, and climbing ladders or scaffolding. * Must be ...

We are looking for apprentice(s) to help assist our Sign Service Technicans. * Assist with ... Regular climbing, lifting, kneeling, crawling, and overhead work * Exposure to all weather ...

We are looking for apprentice(s) to help assist our Sign Service Technicans. * Assist with ... Regular climbing, lifting, kneeling, crawling, and overhead work * Exposure to all weather ...

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Showing results 1-20

Apprentice Climber information

See California salary details

$12

$24

$35

How much do apprentice climber jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice climber in California is $24.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $27.74 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Climber jobs in California? The most popular types of Climber jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Climber jobs in California? For Apprentice Climber jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Climber jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Climber jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Apprentice Climber jobs? Cities in California with the most Apprentice Climber job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Climber job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,935 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Apprentice Climber 1

Apprentice Climber 1

The Davey Tree Expert Company

Arroyo Grande, CA • On-site

$22.25 - $30.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago


Davey Tree rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 101 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 35 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

Apprentice Climber 1
Company: Davey Tree Surgery Co.
Locations: Arroyo Grande, CA
Additional Locations: N/A
Work Site: On Site
Req ID: 227133
Job Duties
What You'll Do:
  • Learn how to climb trees. (Yes, we will pay you to do that.) Davey offers both DdRT/MRS and SRT/SRS climbing systems
  • Perform all aspects of tree pruning and removal services safely and skillfully for major electric utility providers. Including but not limited to:
  • Pruning treetops, repairing damaged trees by trimming or removal
  • Removing broken limbs from utility lines, roofs, and other objects
  • Tree identification and pruning to industry guidelines
  • Properly maintain, prepare and operate all tools and equipment including chainsaws, chippers, aerial lifts and more.
  • Operate as an active crew member with supporting ground crew and foreman.
  • How high you grow depends on you!

Qualifications
What We're Seeking:
  • Love of the outdoors
  • Ability to complete the Davey Tree Trimmer Orientation Program upon hire
  • Ability to complete the Davey Tree First Aid, CPR and defensive driving course upon hire
  • Required: valid driver's license
  • Preferred: Commercial Driver's License-Class A or B with Airbrake Endorsement
  • Preferred: line clearance experience or other related tree work
  • Preferred: relevant pesticide and related licenses and certificates, if required by state law
  • Preferred: ISA Certified Arborist®, ISA Certified Tree Worker®, and/or TCIA Certified Tree Care Safety Professional®
  • Preferably with a full or partial PG&E assessment pass.

Additional Information
What We Offer: *
  • Progressive advancement in job classification and wage
  • Benefits through union agreement including health insurance and pension
  • Opportunity to travel
  • Opportunity for overtime work
  • All job specific equipment and safety gear provided
  • Employee-owned company and discounted stock purchase options
  • Employee referral bonus program
  • Scholarship program for children of employees
  • Charitable matching gift program

*All listed benefits available to eligible employees
Company Overview
Invest in your future. Join one of the largest employee-owned companies in the nation! Davey has a unique culture that focuses on the open exchanging of ideas, community partnership, a commitment to safety, and delivering unrivaled client service while acting as industry leaders in horticultural and environmental services.
We are currently looking to add a dynamic utility apprentice climber to our passionate team of utility line clearance professionals. Your office is outdoors, and you get a new view every day!
Divisional Overview
The Davey Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected class, including race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, marital or familial status, disability, status as a protected veteran, status as an Aboriginal or Indigenous person, or other classification protected by law.
The Davey Tree Surgery Company is based in Livermore, California, and provides a full range of utility tree care and pole test and treat services. The Davey Tree Expert Company provides research-driven tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental consulting for residential, utility, commercial and environmental partners in the U.S. and Canada. We care about our clients, each other and the world around us. We offer the resources, size and stability of a big company while maintaining the culture, entrepreneurial spirit and feel of a small one. We invest in our employees by offering industry-leading training, technology and benefits that lead to a rewarding and safe work experience at all levels. Wherever you want to grow your career, there's a place for you at Davey. To learn more, visit Davey.com.
Accommodations: If requested by employee or otherwise as required by law, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
If you need assistance at any time, please contact us at 1-877-411-7601 or at SurgeryJobs@davey.com.
Employment Type: Permanent
Job Type: Full Time
Travel Expectations: Up to 25%

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