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Contract Arborist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Kissimmee

ARBORIST

Kissimmee, FL · On-site

Perform arboriculture work in the care and maintenance of the City of Kissimmee's public trees and ... Keeps records of time and material, requisition of supplies, and preparing contract documents and ...

Bratt Tree

Sales Arborist

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$55K - $120K/yr

Ensure jobs are completed based on the signed contract and to the client's satisfaction * Set up ... ISA Arborist Certification is a plus (We will help you earn this if you do not have it) If you are ...

Bratt Tree

Sales Arborist

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$55K - $120K/yr

Ensure jobs are completed based on the signed contract and to the client's satisfaction * Set up ... ISA Arborist Certification is a plus (We will help you earn this if you do not have it) If you are ...

Joshua Tree Experts

Sales Arborist

Houston, TX · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

The Sales Arborist Account Manager position is not just a job; it's a year-round adventure filled ... Negotiating contracts and collaborating with office staff to schedule work * Creating work orders ...

Joshua Tree Experts

Sales Arborist

Houston, TX

The Sales Arborist Account Manager position is not just a job; it's a year-round adventure filled ... Negotiating contracts and collaborating with office staff to schedule work * Creating work orders ...

Joshua Tree Experts

Sales Arborist

Houston, TX · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

The Sales Arborist Account Manager position is not just a job; it's a year-round adventure filled ... Negotiating contracts and collaborating with office staff to schedule work * Creating work orders ...

Joshua Tree Experts

Sales Arborist

Houston, TX · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

The Sales Arborist Account Manager position is not just a job; it's a year-round adventure filled ... Negotiating contracts and collaborating with office staff to schedule work * Creating work orders ...

Joshua Tree Experts

Sales Arborist

Houston, TX · On-site

The Sales Arborist Account Manager position is not just a job; it's a year-round adventure filled ... Negotiating contracts and collaborating with office staff to schedule work * Creating work orders ...

Joshua Tree Experts

Sales Arborist

Houston, TX · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

The Sales Arborist Account Manager position is not just a job; it's a year-round adventure filled ... Negotiating contracts and collaborating with office staff to schedule work * Creating work orders ...

Arcadis

Arborist

Manhattan, NY

$26.45 - $39.67/hr

Join our dynamic team of Engineers and Arborists as we work together to improve the green ... Capital Contract Supervision Oversight * Woody Plant and Construction/Restoration Oversight and ...

City of El Paso

Arborist

El Paso, TX

$51K - $64K/yr

International Society of Arborists (ISA) certification and Texas Pesticide Applicators License ... Review contract documents for competitive bidding and procurement of services. Monitor contractors ...

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Contract Arborist information

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$15

$29

$50

How much do contract arborist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract arborist in the United States is $29.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are contract arborists?

Contract arborists are tree care professionals who are hired on a contractual basis to provide services such as tree pruning, removal, health assessments, and planting for clients like municipalities, companies, or private landowners. Unlike full-time employees, contract arborists typically work independently or as part of a specialized company, taking on specific projects or ongoing maintenance tasks as needed. They are trained in arboriculture and often hold certifications to ensure the safe and effective management of trees and woody plants. Contract arborists play a crucial role in maintaining healthy urban and rural landscapes by ensuring trees are properly cared for and risks are minimized.

What is the difference between Contract Arborist vs Tree Trimmer?

AspectContract ArboristTree Trimmer
CertificationsCertified Arborist (ISA), Climbing & Safety certificationsTypically no formal certifications required
Work EnvironmentConsulting, project planning, specialized tree carePruning, trimming, and removal tasks
Employer & Industry UsageContract basis, consulting firms, landscaping companiesTree service companies, landscaping firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Contract Arborist and a Tree Trimmer lies in their scope of work and qualifications. Contract Arborists often hold certifications like ISA Certified Arborist and perform specialized tree care, consulting, and project planning. Tree Trimmers typically focus on pruning and trimming tasks without requiring formal certifications. While both roles work in the tree care industry, Contract Arborists usually operate on a contractual basis offering expert advice, whereas Tree Trimmers are employed for routine maintenance tasks.

What are some of the key challenges a Contract Arborist may face when working with multiple clients or properties?

As a Contract Arborist, one of the main challenges is managing diverse client expectations and adhering to varying property guidelines. Each site may present unique tree health issues, landscape restrictions, or safety protocols, requiring adaptability and strong communication skills. Additionally, balancing multiple projects often involves tight schedules and coordinating with property managers, landscapers, and municipal officials. Staying organized and maintaining clear documentation are essential for success in this dynamic role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Arborist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Arborist, you need expertise in tree biology, pruning techniques, disease identification, and generally require relevant certifications such as ISA Certified Arborist or equivalent. Familiarity with arboricultural tools, GIS mapping systems, and safety equipment is also essential. Excellent problem-solving skills, communication, and customer service abilities help you work effectively with clients and teams. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, accurate tree care and foster trust with clients, which is crucial for long-term success in the field.
More about Contract Arborist jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Arborist jobs? Cities with the most Contract Arborist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Arborist jobs? The most popular types of Arborist jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Arborist jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Arborist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Arborist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Arborist jobs are:
Contract Arborist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Arborist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Locum Tenens, 5% Internship, 47% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 38% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,675 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

Conservation Arborist

Forest Park Forever

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description
Position Summary:
The Conservation Arborist is responsible for a wide range of duties that involve both planning and management, including the programming of tree care, selection and planting processes, and the preservation and maintenance of trees, ensuring that all processes are in accordance with the maintenance cooperation agreement between Forest Park Forever and the City of St Louis Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry.
Functions of the Job:
  • Develop and implement plans for tree selections, purchases, and plantings in the park.
  • Direct the pruning and maintenance of trees under the care of Forest Park Forever to promote structural stability, reduce hazards, and enhance the overall health and appearance of the trees.
  • Provide technical information and recommendations on capital and maintenance project design and construction.
  • Provide direction to large event permittees regarding tree protection.
  • Initiate and oversee tree removal and tree care contracts under the direction of Forest Park Forever.
  • Conduct regular tree health assessments to identify diseases, pests, structural issues, or other problems that may affect the longevity and health of the trees under the care of Forest Park Forever.
  • Collaborate with the FPF Development Department on the arboricultural aspect of the tree tribute program.
  • Develop and manage tree budgets and expenditures.
  • Coordinate tree-related efforts with the Horticulture Supervisor, Park Ecologist, and Horticulture Project Manager.
  • Partner with the Forest Park Arboriculture Crew in coordinating the care of trees in the park, including maintaining the Forest Park Tree inventory and implementing the Tree Master Plan and the Emerald Ash Borer plan.
  • Perform supervisory duties, i.e. hiring, promoting, disciplinary actions, performance reviews, etc.
  • Coach and mentor direct reports.
  • Recommend budgetary needs for programs, including personnel, supplies and equipment.
  • Prepare budgets, maintenance records, and reports for tree care.
  • Purchase and maintain inventory of arboriculture supplies and equipment.
  • Coordinate activities and events with other divisions, departments, organizations, City, etc.
  • Generate and present data, metrics, cost estimates and reports.
  • Perform contract management duties, i.e. draft, write, manage and coordinate contracts.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position.
Employees will be required to follow other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties as requested, subject to all applicable state and federal laws.
Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Forestry, or related field. Equivalent job experience will be considered.
  • Minimum 3 years of related experience.
  • Working knowledge of ArcGIS to coordinate and manage tree inventory.
  • Basic knowledge of Microsoft Outlook & Office suite (Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint).
  • Strong knowledge of arboriculture methods, inventory system management, urban forest ecosystems, and tree protection techniques.
  • Strong knowledge of tools, materials, and practices of arboriculture.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

License(s) Required:
  • Valid driver's license.
  • International Society of Arborist certification or the ability to obtain within 6 months.

Physical Work Requirements / Work Conditions:
  • Constantly required to traverse the park over uneven terrain.
  • Ability to hear, understand, and follow oral instructions over radio, telephone, or in-person.
  • Frequently communicates critical information to varying audiences.
  • Frequently works in outdoor environments, including varying, inclement weather conditions.
  • Frequently operates computers and other office equipment.
  • Frequently moves materials weighing up to fifty (50) pounds; occasionally moves materials and equipment weighing more than eighty (80) pounds.

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