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Local Tree Service Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Maintain a valid herbicide application certification or equivalent, as required by Wright Tree Service and applicable local, state, and federal regulations * Ability to obtain eRailSafe certification ...

Maintain a valid herbicide application certification or equivalent, as required by Wright Tree Service and applicable local, state, and federal regulations * Ability to obtain eRailSafe certification ...

Maintain herbicide application certification or equivalent as required by Wright Tree Service and local, state, and federal law. * Keeps informed of new equipment and specifications, standards ...

Maintain herbicide application certification or equivalent as required by Wright Tree Service and local, state, and federal law. * Keeps informed of new equipment and specifications, standards ...

Maintain herbicide application certification or equivalent as required by Wright Tree Service and local, state, and federal law. * Keeps informed of new equipment and specifications, standards ...

Maintain herbicide application certification or equivalent as required by Wright Tree Service and local, state, and federal law. * Keeps informed of new equipment and specifications, standards ...

Showing results 21-40

Local Tree Service information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$19

$29

How much do local tree service jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for local tree service in Iowa is $19.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $21.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a local tree service?

Local tree services are professional companies or individuals in your area who specialize in the care, maintenance, and removal of trees. Their services typically include tree trimming, pruning, removal, stump grinding, and emergency storm damage cleanup. Hiring a local tree service ensures that your trees receive proper care, enhances your property's safety and appearance, and helps maintain the health of your landscape. Additionally, local providers are familiar with regional tree species, local regulations, and environmental considerations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a local tree service professional?

To thrive in a Local Tree Service role, you need a solid understanding of arboriculture, safe tree removal and pruning techniques, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with chainsaws, wood chippers, climbing gear, and sometimes certifications like ISA Certified Arborist are typically required. Physical fitness, attention to detail, and strong teamwork and communication skills help professionals excel in this field. These competencies ensure safe, efficient work practices and high-quality service for clients while minimizing risks on the job.

What are common challenges faced by professionals in a local tree service role, and how can they be managed?

Working in a local tree service often involves unpredictable weather conditions, physically demanding tasks, and the need to operate heavy equipment safely. Professionals must be prepared to address hazards such as falling branches, proximity to power lines, and uneven terrain. To manage these challenges, teams typically prioritize safety training, use specialized protective gear, and practice effective communication on-site. Collaboration with other crew members ensures tasks are completed efficiently and safely, while ongoing training helps workers stay up-to-date with industry best practices.

What is the difference between Local Tree Service vs Arborist?

AspectLocal Tree ServiceArborist
CredentialsMay have certifications like ISA or state-specific licensesTypically holds ISA Certified Arborist credential
Work EnvironmentPerforms tree trimming, removal, and maintenance on residential and commercial propertiesProvides expert tree care, diagnosis, and consulting services
Industry UsageUsed by local homeowners and businesses for routine tree workOften involved in complex tree health assessments and preservation

While both Local Tree Service providers and arborists work in tree care, arborists usually have specialized certifications and focus on expert diagnosis and preservation. Local Tree Services often handle routine maintenance and removals. Choosing between them depends on the complexity of your tree needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tree Service jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Tree Service jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Local Tree Service jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Local Tree Service job openings:

Infographic showing various Local Tree Service job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,214 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Tree Service Laborer : Des Moines, IA

Des Moines, IA

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform work from the ground such as clearing brush and trees, and performing clean-up on job sites.

  • Load and unload trucks with logs, brush, and debris, and operate equipment like pole saws, pruners, and gas-powered chain saws to cut brush and trees.

  • Set up and break down road signs, flag traffic, and drive trucks or operate other equipment as assigned.


Job description

The Groundsperson supports the crew by performing work from the ground including clearing brush and trees as directed, and performing clean-up on each job site.

 ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Always follow and help enforce safe practices and rules
  • Keep work area clear of debris
  • Work from the ground and clear undergrowth from right-of-way by using handsaws, pole saws and pruners, hand pruners, loppers and gas-powered chain saws to cut brush and trees
  • Load and unload trucks with logs, brush and debris; feed brush into brush chipper
  • Use hand lines to lower limbs and equipment
  • Perform general clean-up of job sites following completion of work
  • Carry, prepare, and store materials, tools and equipment at work site
  • Set up and break down road signs as directed
  • Flag traffic to protect employees and the public from potential harm or injury
  • Drive truck or operate other equipment as assigned
  • Perform basic maintenance service on trucks and equipment; keep trucks and other assigned equipment in neat and orderly fashion; report the need for major repairs to truck and equipment to Foreperson
  • Safeguard employees and public from hazards in and around the work area by enforcing safe job practices, keeping work area clean and orderly, and staying in frequent voice communication with co-workers
  • Perform duties for storm work as needed

 SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

 Groundspersons have no direct reports.

 EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

 Prior experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries preferred

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

 High School diploma or education equivalent preferred

 KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Must possess physical strength and balance to drag heavy limbs, use chain saw and pruners in uneven terrain
  • Must be able to work outdoors under varying and sometimes adverse weather conditions
  • Must be able to hear verbal instructions from a distance
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain first-aid certification and CPR
  • Must be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Must have and maintain a Driver’s License if hired for a driving position
  • Must be able to comprehend verbal job instructions/information
  • Must be able to maintain balance over uneven terrain
  • Must be able to communicate with others
  • Must have endurance necessary to perform duties throughout a standard eight or ten hour day
  • Must be able to operate and service all required tools and equipment
  • Must be able to travel out of town for storm restoration work when needed 

Position requires employee to be able to pass a background check and drug screen as required for this job.

Position requires employee to be able to pass a background check and drug screen as required for this job.

Work authorization requirements:

Must meet I-9 requirements.

Affirmative Action/EEO statement: Xylem Tree Experts and Kendall Vegetation Services provide equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, obligations, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

XKIG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws, including the ADA. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at 877-418-2999.

Benefits Offered:

This is a full-time position that offers health insurance benefits for medical, vision, and dental, as well as the option for enrollment in a 401K.

Paid Time Off (PTO)
Eligibility and accrual timelines vary by position with some roles gaining PTO immediately and others becoming eligible after a set period of employment. Details are provided during the hiring process and may vary for Union hires.

AI Usage Disclaimer:

As part of our commitment to efficiency and innovation, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools during the recruiting and onboarding processes. These tools assist with tasks such as resume screening, interview scheduling, and communication. All decisions regarding hiring and employment are ultimately made by our human team. If you have questions or concerns about this process, please contact our HR department.