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Climber Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Tree Climber - Full Time Department: Homer Tree Care, Inc. Job Summary: The Tree Climber is responsible for trimming, pruning and tree removal. This may include using various climbing techniques and ...

Arborist Climber

Barrington, IL · On-site

$19 - $30/hr

As an Arborist Climber, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew with the primary responsibility of tree climbing and assisting Arborist Crew Leaders in performing all tree and shrub care ...

As an Arborist Climber, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew with the primary responsibility of tree climbing and assisting Arborist Crew Leaders in performing all tree and shrub care ...

As an Arborist Climber, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew with the primary responsibility of tree climbing and assisting Arborist Crew Leaders in performing all tree and shrub care ...

Arborist Climber

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$19 - $30/hr

As an Arborist Climber, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew with the primary responsibility of tree climbing and assisting Arborist Crew Leaders in performing all tree and shrub care ...

Arborist Climber

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19 - $30/hr

As an Arborist Climber, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew with the primary responsibility of tree climbing and assisting Arborist Crew Leaders in performing all tree and shrub care ...

Tree Climber

Evanston, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

The Tree Climber applies expertise in climbing, pruning, and safety to ensure the health and well-being of each client's landscape. This position pays a range of $25 - $35 an hr depending on ...

The Tree Climber applies expertise in climbing, pruning, and safety to ensure the health and well-being of each client's landscape. This position pays a range of $25 - $35 an hr depending on ...

The Tree Climber applies expertise in climbing, pruning, and safety to ensure the health and well-being of each client's landscape. This position pays a range of $25 - $35 an hr depending on ...

Climbing: 1 year (Rock Climbing, Rope Access is preferred) Required License or Certification: Driver's License (Preferably clean driving record, no DUI's) Job Type: Full-time #hc256601

Tree Climber

Long Grove, IL · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Climber II is an intermediate level climber position responsible for working in trees to perform general tree care including pruning, cabling, bracing, lightning protection, and tree removals.

Tree Climber

Long Grove, IL · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Climber II is an intermediate level climber position responsible for working in trees to perform general tree care including pruning, cabling, bracing, lightning protection, and tree removals.

Crew Leader (Tree Climber)- Full Time Department: Homer Tree Care, Inc. Job Summary: The Crew Leader is a tree climber that is responsible for managing and supervising the tree crew and ensuring all ...

Tree Climber-Tree Care

Warrenville, IL

$22 - $30.25/hr

Tree Climber What We Offer · * Compensation: Competitive pay based on experience, skill level, and responsibilities * Benefits: Health and dental insurance, paid time off, 401(k) Savings Plan, and ...

Tree Climber What We Offer · * Competitive pay up to $38hr based on experience, skill level, and responsibilities * Benefits: Health and dental insurance, paid time off, 401(k) Savings Plan, and ...

Tree Climber-Tree Care

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$22 - $30.25/hr

Tree Climber What We Offer · * Compensation: Competitive pay based on experience, skill level, and responsibilities * Benefits: Health and dental insurance, paid time off, 401(k) Savings Plan, and ...

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Climber information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$28

$43

How much do climber jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for climber in Chicago, IL is $28.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $41.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a climber?

A climber, sometimes referred to as a tower climber, scales radio, cellular, and other communication towers to perform repairs and maintenance duties. As a climber, you use climbing equipment, specialized shoes, and harnesses to reach towers, which are often 100 feet or higher. Climbers perform both electrical and mechanical repairs using hand or power tools, as well as installation and routine inspection work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a climber?

To thrive as a Climber, you need excellent physical fitness, technical climbing skills, and knowledge of safety procedures, often supported by training or certification from organizations like the American Mountain Guides Association. Familiarity with climbing equipment such as ropes, harnesses, belay devices, and safety systems is crucial. Strong problem-solving, risk assessment, teamwork, and communication skills help climbers navigate challenging environments and collaborate with partners. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring safety, efficiency, and success in demanding climbing situations.

What are some common challenges climbers face when working on outdoor job sites, and how are they addressed?

Climbers working on outdoor job sites, such as tree care, construction, or telecommunications, often encounter challenges like unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and safety risks at height. To address these, climbers follow strict safety protocols, use specialized equipment, and participate in regular safety training. Teamwork is essential, as climbers often rely on ground crew and communication devices to coordinate tasks and ensure everyone’s safety. Adapting quickly to changing conditions and staying physically fit are also key to managing these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Climber vs Rope Access Technician?

AspectClimberRope Access Technician
CertificationsOSHA, fall protection, basic climbingIRATA, SPRAT, advanced fall protection
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, towers, treesIndustrial, maintenance, inspection
Industry UsageConstruction, telecommunications, forestryIndustrial maintenance, inspection, rescue

Climbers and Rope Access Technicians both work at heights, but Rope Access Technicians typically hold specialized certifications like IRATA or SPRAT and perform more technical, industrial tasks. Climbers often work in construction or forestry with basic climbing skills. While both roles involve height work, Rope Access Technicians are trained for complex, safety-critical environments, making them more specialized in industrial settings.

What jobs do climbers have?

Climbers work in various roles such as tree climbers, window washers, construction workers, and rock climbing instructors. These jobs often require physical strength, climbing skills, safety training, and sometimes specialized equipment like harnesses and ropes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Climber jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Climber jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Climber jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Climber jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Climber jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Climber jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Climber job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,836 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

$23 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Position: Tree Climber – Full Time
Department: Homer Tree Care, Inc.
Job Summary: The Tree Climber is responsible for trimming, pruning and tree removal. This may include using various climbing techniques and using equipment such as: chainsaws, stump grinders, woodchippers, and other heavy machinery using safety practices. The Tree Climber is under direct supervision of the Crew Leader. THIS POSITION IS PHYSICALLY DEMANDING.
Duties amp; Responsibilities
  • Ensures proper use of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
  • Identification and use of climbing equipment
  • Performs routine pre-climb and equipment inspections
  • Perform climbing and rigging knots
  • Follow climbing work plan
  • Identifying electrical hazards
  • Utilizes methods of ascending amp; descending trees
  • Identification and use of climbing spurs
  • Performs “tying-in” with roper lanyard and climbing rope
  • Performs a hazard assessment for rigging
  • Demonstrates lowering techniques with and without mechanical
  • Utilizes lowering devices
  • Performs pre-work operational check on all equipment
  • Performs routine vehicle inspections
  • Operates the aerial bucket using lower controls
  • Performs aerial lift maintenance
  • Positions the vehicle and operating outriggers
Qualifications:
  • CDL Class-A, is a plus- potential to earn higher compensation
  • OSHA familiarity/training
  • Valid Driver’s License and clean driving record with no violations
  • Physically Demanding- requires considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials. Must demonstrate flexibility and endurance
  • Able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Able to bend, stand, or sit for long periods of time
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment
  • Effective Communication with supervisors and coworkers
  • Working conditions sometimes include both high heat and cold temperatures
  • Familiarity with safe climbing techniques; ascending, descending, limb walking, work positioning, double crotching, recrotching, use of flip-line, etc
Benefits:
  • Starting pay is $23-28/hr
  • Pay is determined by experience, skill, education, and other factors
  • Able to enroll in benefits after 60-day new hire probation period
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan and employer matching (up to a certain amount) and 100% vesting as soon as contributions are made
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays (6)
Homer Companies is a second-generation, family-owned, full-service tree care company that provides unparalleled services throughout the Midwest. Homer is an EEO Employer, committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation or any other protected characteristic. A great work atmosphere with top pay!
Please direct questions regarding the Tree Climber position to hr@homertree.com.