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Climbing Arborist Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rainbow Companies

Climbing Arborist

Burnsville, MN · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

... arborists to further your skills in tree climbing and pruning ... You will have the opportunity to mentor trainees, work on a wide variety of job sizes, and hone ...

Rainbow Companies

Climbing Arborist

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

... arborists to further your skills in tree climbing and pruning ... You will have the opportunity to mentor trainees, work on a wide variety of job sizes, and hone ...

Rainbow Companies

Climbing Arborist

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

... arborists to further your skills in tree climbing and pruning ... You will have the opportunity to mentor trainees, work on a wide variety of job sizes, and hone ...

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Climbing Arborist Trainee information

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How much do climbing arborist trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for climbing arborist trainee in the United States is $20.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a climbing arborist trainee?

To thrive as a Climbing Arborist Trainee, you need a basic understanding of tree biology, safe climbing techniques, and physical fitness, often with a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum qualification. Familiarity with climbing gear, chainsaws, and safety harnesses, as well as certifications like CPR/First Aid and basic arboriculture training, are typically required. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and attention to detail help trainees excel in dynamic outdoor environments. These competencies are essential for ensuring safety, effective tree care, and successful collaboration with experienced arborists.

What are common challenges faced by climbing arborist trainees during their first year?

Climbing Arborist Trainees often encounter challenges such as building physical endurance for working at heights, learning to safely operate specialized climbing and cutting equipment, and adapting to changing outdoor conditions. It can also be challenging to quickly identify different tree species and assess their health under the guidance of senior arborists. However, most teams provide thorough on-the-job training and mentorship, which helps trainees develop these skills and build confidence over time.

What is the difference between Climbing Arborist Trainee vs Climbing Arborist?

AspectClimbing Arborist TraineeClimbing Arborist
CertificationsOften requires basic safety and climbing certificationsTypically holds advanced certifications like ISA Certified Arborist
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, job sites under supervisionIndependent work on trees, client sites
Job RoleLearning and assisting with tree climbing and pruningPerforming tree pruning, removal, and maintenance

The Climbing Arborist Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining experience under supervision, while the Climbing Arborist is a more experienced role responsible for executing tree care tasks independently. The trainee typically has fewer certifications and works closely with experienced arborists, whereas the climber has advanced skills and certifications to perform complex tree work.

What is a climbing arborist trainee?

Climbing Arborist Trainees are entry-level professionals who are learning how to safely climb and work in trees to perform tasks such as pruning, removal, and maintenance. Under the guidance of experienced arborists, trainees gain hands-on experience in tree climbing techniques, equipment use, and arboriculture best practices. Their training prepares them for a career focused on tree health, safety, and proper care in a variety of environments.
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Climbing Arborist Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Climbing Arborist Trainee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,814 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Climbing Arborist Trainee | Gurnee, IL

The Davey Tree Expert Company

Lake Bluff, IL

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Davey Tree rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Davey Tree

Based on 101 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6.7

Company rating compared to similar companies: 6.7 out of 10

Gardening and landscaping average

Based on 1,042 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Company: The Davey Tree Expert Company  
Locations: Lake Bluff, IL, Gurnee, IL  
Additional Locations: Gurnee, IL 
Work Site: On Site   
Req ID: 226820 

Position Overview

Trim and remove trees, remove unwanted, diseased or dying limbs on trees, or to affect the health and safety of trees or surrounding areas by performing the following duties. 

Job Duties

What You’ll Do: 

  • Learn to climb trees! (Yes, we will pay you to do that.)  
  • Operate as a member of a tree crew while progressively learning new skills 
  • Learn to perform all aspects of tree pruning and removal services safely and skillfully for clients. Including but not limited to:  
  • Tree identification and industry pruning guidelines 
  • Prune, thin, and remove deadwood throughout the tree canopy 
  • Learn how to install cables, bracing, and lightning protection systems  
  • Assist in removal of hazardous trees 
  • Properly maintain, prepare and operate all tools and equipment including chainsaws, chippers, aerial lifts, and more.  
  • How high you grow depends on you! 
Qualifications

What We’re Looking For: 

  • Love of the outdoors 
  • Preferred: Background in Forestry, Horticulture, Landscaping, or working at heights 
  • 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   
  • Preferred: Relevant pesticide and related licenses and certificates, if required by state law  
Additional Information

What We Offer: * 

  • Paid time off and paid holidays 
  • Opportunities for advancement 
  • All job specific equipment and safety gear provided 
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match 
  • Employee-owned company & discounted stock purchase options 
  • Group Health Plan 
  • Employee referral bonus program 
  • Locations throughout US in major cities and desirable areas 
  • Career Development Program supported by Industry Expert Safety Specialists & Skills Trainers 
  • Scholarship Program for Children of Employees 
  • Charitable matching gift program 
  • Starting pay rate: $20-$23 per hour

*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 exchange of ideas, community partnerships, 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 Climbing Arborist Trainee to our passionate team of tree care 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 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 Recruiting@davey.com.

Employment Type: Permanent 
Job Type: Full Time 
Travel Expectations: Up to 25% 

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