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Contract Climber Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Title : Trimmer/Climber Trainee Type : Full-Time/Non-Exempt Reports to : Foreperson/General ... Has a valid driver's license (dependent on Division and utility/contract requirements) and be able ...

Machine Builder

Lake Orion, MI · On-site

$33 - $34/hr

Contract About the Role We're seeking experienced Machine Builders to join the Automation team in ... Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks (bending, kneeling, climbing) * Valid or ...

... contract specifications. Previous experience as a Foreperson/Crew Leader in a similar role is ... Trim and/or remove trees by climbing with the aid of a ladder, safety belt, climbing line, powered ...

... contract specifications. Previous experience as a Foreperson/Crew Leader in a similar role is ... Trim and/or remove trees by climbing with the aid of a ladder, safety belt, climbing line, powered ...

PT Level II Tech

Detroit, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ohio/Michigan Employment Type: Full-Time - Contract (1 year) Reports To: Operations Manager ... May involve climbing, bending, and working at heights * Use of PPE required at all times ...

... dune climbing opportunities to historic sites such as Mackinac Island State Park where ... Contract

Concrete Inspector

Dearborn Heights, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ensure the Construction Contractor's work complies with contract specifications and drawings in ... climbing ladders, working around heavy equipment, and lifting testing materials and equipment.

Concrete Inspector

Petoskey, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ensure the Construction Contractor's work complies with contract specifications and drawings in ... climbing ladders, working around heavy equipment, and lifting testing materials and equipment.

Concrete Inspector

Petoskey, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ensure the Construction Contractor's work complies with contract specifications and drawings in ... climbing ladders, working around heavy equipment, and lifting testing materials and equipment.

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Contract Climber information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$22

$33

How much do contract climber jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract climber in Michigan is $22.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $25.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract climber?

Contract climbers are skilled arborists who are hired on a temporary or per-job basis to climb and work on trees, often for tree care companies that need additional expertise or labor for specific projects. They perform tasks such as pruning, removal, and maintenance of trees, typically using specialized climbing and rigging techniques. Unlike full-time employees, contract climbers work independently and may take on assignments from multiple companies, providing flexibility for both the climber and the hiring business.

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

To thrive as a Contract Climber, you need proficiency in tree climbing, chainsaw operation, arboriculture knowledge, and typically certifications such as ISA Certified Arborist or relevant climbing credentials. Familiarity with technical climbing gear, rigging systems, and safety equipment is essential for efficient and safe work at height. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you adapt to different sites and collaborate effectively with crew members. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring safety, productivity, and the successful completion of various tree care projects in diverse environments.

How do contract climbers typically collaborate with arborists and landscaping teams on job sites?

Contract climbers often work closely with certified arborists and landscaping crews to safely and efficiently complete tree care tasks such as pruning, removal, or cabling. Communication is key, as climbers must coordinate with ground staff to ensure proper rigging, debris management, and adherence to safety protocols. It's common for contract climbers to adapt quickly to different teams and job site dynamics, as each project may involve new personnel, equipment, and client requirements. Building strong working relationships and maintaining clear communication are essential for a smooth workflow and successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Contract Climber vs Rope Access Technician?

AspectContract ClimberRope Access Technician
CertificationsOSHA, fall protection, climbing certificationsIRATA, SPRAT, fall protection
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, maintenance, industrial projectsInspection, maintenance, industrial, and rescue operations
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, oil & gas, utilitiesIndustrial inspection, maintenance, rescue

Both Contract Climbers and Rope Access Technicians perform work at heights using ropes, requiring similar certifications like IRATA or OSHA. However, Contract Climbers often focus on construction and general maintenance, while Rope Access Technicians are more involved in inspection, industrial maintenance, and rescue operations. The roles overlap in skills and environment but differ slightly in industry focus and specific certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Climber jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Climber jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Climber jobs in Michigan?

For Contract Climber jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Climber jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Climber jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Contract Climber jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Contract Climber job openings:

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Wright Tree Service rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 36 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

Title: Trimmer/Climber Trainee
Type: Full-Time/Non-Exempt
Reports to: Foreperson/General Foreperson

Essential Functions:

  • Trims and/or removes trees by climbing with the aid of a ladder, safety belt, climbing line, powered trimmer lift truck, or works from the ground using saws/pruners. Will cut branches or trunk sections and drops or lowers them to the ground with lines.

  • Uses appropriate tools, will fell trees or trimmed trunks and split them into manageable pieces.

  • Sprays stumps and brush with hand-spraying equipment to prevent further growth.

  • Loads and unloads trucks with logs, stumps, brush, and debris and/or feeds brush into a wood chipper.

  • Repairs slight damage to lawns, fences, and walks caused by tree trimming.

  • Relays hand-signals, directs traffic, drives and operates trucks and equipment as assigned, and keeps trucks and work area clear and orderly.

  • Trains new employees on proper procedures.

  • Safeguards employees and public from hazards in and around work area. Cooperates with customer, police, and fire departments when blocking street or driveways. Sets up barriers, warning signs, flags, etc. to protect employees as well as the public. Trained to perform tree and bucket rescue.

  • Assumes responsibility for the inspection and proper working conditions of tools, trucks, and other work equipment. Requests repair or replacement of equipment when necessary.

  • Works around hazardous equipment and in close proximity to energized power lines.

  • Works around excessive noise from machines, chainsaws, wood chipper and must wear proper personal protective equipment.

  • Is exposed to all temperatures and weather; will be exposed to nature, i.e., irritating plants, biting or stinging insects, dust, etc.

  • May work on rough terrain.

  • Helps enforce on-the-job safety practices for crew members.

  • Services truck, chipper and equipment, maintaining them in a neat, clean, and specified mechanical order. Reports the need for equipment and truck maintenance to crew lead.

  • Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Has a minimum of 3 months experience working on tree trimming or clearing crews and/or has successfully completed applicable performance reviews.

  • Enforces on-the-job safety practices.

  • Must be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.

  • Needs to be able to enter and exit a vehicle numerous times per day.

  • Must be able to withstand exposure to all kinds of weather while completing work tasks such as rain, heat, sun, cold, snow.

  • Must be able to write, read, and comprehend written and verbal job instructions/information.

  • Must be able to communicate with others and represent Wright Tree Service in a professional manner.

  • Possess the ability to lift, move, and maneuver up to 50 pounds on an infrequent basis and up to 30 pounds on a frequent basis.

  • Ability to work long hours and overtime during emergencies (including holidays, weekends, storm work) and will be subject to call-out work.

  • Ability to operate and service all required tools and equipment.

  • Has a valid driver's license (dependent on Division and utility/contract requirements) and be able to pass a pre-employment drug test.

  • Maintains a herbicide applicator or operators certification and license as required by Wright Tree Service and local, state, and federal law.

  • Must have valid First-Aid and CPR cards.

  • Must complete and pass a Climber Trainee Performance Review.

Wright Tree Service employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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