ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Contract Tree Climber Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsContract Tree Climber Jobs

Contract Tree Climber information

See salary details

$12

$24

$35

How much do contract tree climber jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract tree climber in the United States is $24.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the fatality rate for tree climbers?

Tree climbers face a higher risk of fatality compared to many other occupations, with industry estimates indicating a fatality rate of approximately 50 to 100 deaths per 100,000 workers annually. This risk is primarily due to falls from heights, often mitigated through the use of safety gear, harnesses, and proper training.

How to become a certified tree climber?

To become a certified tree climber, individuals typically complete a training program in arboriculture and climbing techniques, such as those offered by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or similar organizations. Earning certifications like the ISA Certified Tree Worker or Certified Arborist demonstrates competence and safety knowledge, often requiring hands-on experience and passing written exams. Ongoing education and safety training are also important for maintaining certification and advancing in the field.

What is a contract arborist?

A contract arborist is a professional who is hired on a contractual basis to perform tree care and maintenance tasks, such as pruning, removal, and health assessments. They often work with clients, municipalities, or companies and may require certifications like ISA Arborist Certification and the use of specialized climbing tools. Their work environment typically involves outdoor tree work with safety protocols in place.

What does a typical workday look like for a Contract Tree Climber?

A typical day for a Contract Tree Climber involves traveling to various client sites, assessing tree health and risks, and performing tasks such as pruning, trimming, or removing trees using specialized climbing and safety equipment. You will often collaborate with ground crew members to ensure safe rigging and debris cleanup, and occasionally interact directly with clients to clarify project requirements. The work environment is primarily outdoors and physically demanding, requiring adaptability to changing weather conditions and job sites. Contract Tree Climbers often enjoy a varied schedule, independence, and opportunities to develop advanced climbing and arboricultural skills through diverse projects.

How much do climbing arborists get paid?

Climbing arborists, or contract tree climbers, typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Experienced climbers with specialized skills and safety certifications can earn higher wages, especially when working with complex or hazardous trees. Compensation may also include benefits such as overtime pay and seasonal bonuses.

What is a Contract Tree Climber job?

A Contract Tree Climber is an independent tree care professional hired on a temporary or project basis to perform climbing, pruning, removal, and other arboricultural tasks. They typically work with tree service companies, municipalities, or property owners who require skilled climbers for specific jobs. Unlike full-time employees, contract climbers provide their own gear, may carry insurance, and set their own availability. This role requires strong tree-climbing skills, knowledge of safety standards, and experience with rigging and chainsaw operation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Contract Tree Climber position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Tree Climber, you need expertise in tree climbing, pruning, removal techniques, and a solid understanding of tree biology and safety protocols. Familiarity with climbing gear, chainsaws, rigging equipment, and relevant safety certifications such as OSHA or ISA are typically required. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or within a team are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality tree care while minimizing risks to people and property.

More about Contract Tree Climber jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Tree Climber jobs? Cities with the most Contract Tree Climber job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tree Climber jobs? The most popular types of Tree Climber jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Tree Climber jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Tree Climber jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Tree Climber jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Tree Climber jobs are:
Contract Tree Climber jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Tree Climber job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% Locum Tenens, 8% Internship, 50% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 23% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 21% Physical, and 79% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $51,611 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
Tree Climber/Trimmer

Tree Climber/Trimmer

Penn Line Tree Service, Inc.

Richmond, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Description: A Tree Trimmer's primary responsibility is to perform tree trimming, clearing, & removal of trees along electric power lines and right of ways. A Tree Trimmer climbs trees to reach branches interfering with electric lines while using climbing equipment. A Tree Trimmer must have knowledge of chainsaw safety, and roping & rigging techniques. A Tree Trimmer also operates chain saws, pruners, brush chipper and may be called upon to operate an aerial lift device (bucket truck.) A skilled Tree Climber/Trimmer should have at least 6 months' verifiable experience in a utility line clearance and/or residential tree clearance setting. A Valid Driver License and/or CDL License is Preferred. We also specialize in Vegetation Management so a pesticide license would be beneficial, but it's not mandatory.

Work Schedule: 4 -10 HR days, either; Monday thru Thursday or Tuesday thru Friday with periods of mandatory overtime. Employees are also required to work emergency storm duty as need arises.

Rate of Pay: Varies depending upon Skills and Experience.

Work Area:  Travel required throughout various states including PA, MD,

OH, VA, & WV Candidates must be flexible to travel when called upon since work locations are subject to change upon short notice based on contract demands.

Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Short Term Disability, Life Insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, Retirement Plan, Paid Time Off!! We Pay Weekly!!

Penn Line Tree Service is a multi-state specialty contractor based in Scottdale, PA. Our tree division, which specializes in line clearance work, employs over 1300 employees who work on a year round basis. You can locate more information on our website at www.pennline.com.

We are a Drug-Free Workplace.

We encourage minorities and females to apply.

EOE, including disability/vets


Apply