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Pruning Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

You'll apply your expertise in climbing, pruning, and safety to ensure the health and beauty of our clients' landscapes. The Crew Lead position offers additional responsibilities for those who ...

Groundman

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Learn proper pruning and tree removal techniques and safe equipment operation. * Understand and follow all company safety requirements. * Assist in cutting, chipping, and loading brush and wood.

The Tree Care team applies expertise in climbing, pruning, and safety to ensure the health and well-being of each client's landscape. What a day is like : Daily focus is working together on a General ...

Experienced Landscapers

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

You'll follow the instructions of the crew leader to take care of our customer's landscaping needs including mowing, raking, mulching, edging, fertilizing, pruning, and overall lawn care and ...

New

Adapts tree pruning practices as needed to optimize resource use. Consultation- * Advises region engineering with capital job vegetation clearance needs and problems. * Represents PGE's Forestry ...

Climber II (41/II)

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform intermediate tree care operations such as pruning and limb removal on the ground and in small to large-sized trees (up to 100 feet in height) * Access a tree safely according to company ...

Climber II (41/II)

Tualatin, OR

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform intermediate tree care operations such as pruning and limb removal on the ground and in small to large-sized trees (up to 100 feet in height) * Access a tree safely according to company ...

Climber III (41/III)

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform advanced tree care operations such as pruning and limb removal on the ground and in small to large-sized trees (up to 150 feet in height) * Access a tree safely according to company protocols ...

Climber III (41/III)

Tualatin, OR

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform advanced tree care operations such as pruning and limb removal on the ground and in small to large-sized trees (up to 150 feet in height) * Access a tree safely according to company protocols ...

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Showing results 1-20

Pruning information

See Portland, OR salary details

$16

$30

$53

How much do pruning jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for pruning in Portland, OR is $30.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $35.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is pruning?

Pruning is the process of selectively removing branches, buds, or roots from trees, shrubs, or plants to improve their health, appearance, and growth. A pruning job typically involves assessing plants for dead, diseased, or overgrown parts and using tools like shears or saws to carefully cut them away. Proper pruning encourages healthy growth, improves air circulation, and can help prevent disease. People who do pruning work may be employed in landscaping, horticulture, or agriculture and often work outdoors.

What is the difference between Pruning vs Tree Trimming?

AspectPruningTree Trimming
PurposeSelective removal of branches to improve tree health, structure, and safetyShaping and aesthetic enhancement of trees, often for appearance
TechniquesPrecise cuts targeting specific branches or areasGeneral cutting for shape and size
Work EnvironmentOften performed by certified arborists or trained professionalsPerformed by landscapers or general maintenance workers
CertificationsArborist certifications often requiredLess formal certification typically needed

Pruning focuses on maintaining tree health and safety through precise cuts, often requiring specialized skills and certifications. Tree trimming is mainly for aesthetic purposes and shaping, usually performed by general landscapers. Understanding these differences helps ensure proper care and safety for trees.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in pruning roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals working in pruning often encounter challenges such as identifying the correct timing for pruning specific plants, managing physical fatigue from repetitive tasks, and ensuring the use of proper techniques to avoid damaging plants. These challenges can be addressed by staying informed about plant species’ growth cycles, using ergonomic tools, and participating in ongoing training to refine pruning skills. Additionally, effective communication with team members and supervisors helps coordinate tasks, ensuring that work is completed efficiently and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pruner?

To thrive as a Pruner, you need knowledge of plant biology, pruning techniques, and experience with landscaping or horticulture, often supported by on-the-job training or a relevant certificate. Familiarity with pruning tools such as shears, saws, and safety equipment is necessary, and some roles may require knowledge of specific tree management software or equipment. Attention to detail, physical stamina, and good communication with team members are valuable soft skills in this position. These skills ensure healthy plant growth, safety, and efficient maintenance of landscapes or orchards.
What are popular job titles related to Pruning jobs in Portland, OR? For Pruning jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pruning jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Pruning jobs in Portland, OR are:
Infographic showing various Pruning job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,347 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Tree Climber-Crew Lead

SavATree LLC

Hillsboro, OR • On-site

$38 - $43/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


SavATree rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 36 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

Crew Lead Tree Climber

Must reside in or near Vancouver, OR

What We Offer

At SavATree, your success is our priority. Here’s how we invest in you:

  • Compensation: Competitive pay based on experience, skill level, and responsibilities.
  • Benefits: Health and dental insurance, paid time off, 401(k) Savings Plan, Flexible Spending Plan, and an Equipment Account.
  • Time Off: Time-off to support your work/life balance
  • Training & Development: Extensive training opportunities, including leadership development and continuing education support in the industry.
  • Tools for Success: Access to industry-leading equipment, climbing gear, and safety-focused crews.
  • Team Environment: Our Tree Care Team works alongside some of the best trained and equipped teams in the industry, with an emphasis on quality and safety.
  • Pay range for this position will be $38-$43/hr based on experience

About SavATree

SavATree was founded 45 years ago with a mission to preserve trees and protect the natural landscapes we all enjoy. Since then, we've grown into a nationwide leader in tree, shrub, and lawn care services.

We're a values-driven organization built on teamwork, integrity, respect, and a shared commitment to the environment. We pride ourselves on offering a collaborative and supportive work culture where your expertise is valued, and your career path is clear. As we like to say: When you work here, you thrive here.

About the Role

As a Tree Climber with SavATree, you’ll be a key member of our General Tree Care Team. This team works on a variety of tree care tasks, including pruning, removals, and cabling. You’ll apply your expertise in climbing, pruning, and safety to ensure the health and beauty of our clients’ landscapes. The Crew Lead position offers additional responsibilities for those who demonstrate leadership qualities and want to guide a team.

In this role, you will:

  • Perform high-quality tree care services, including pruning, removals, and cabling for trees and shrubs
  • Climb trees safely using proper techniques, ropes, saddle, and ladders
  • Operate chainsaws, aerial lifts (bucket trucks), and other tree care equipment effectively
  • Apply ANSI A300 Pruning Standards and ANSI Z safety practices in all tasks
  • Ensure proper pruning cuts and techniques, preserving the health and structure of trees
  • Assist in tree removals and utilize ropes, spikes, and other equipment as needed for safe takedowns
  • Identify hazards and perform safety checks after, during, and after each job
  • Perform aerial rescues if necessary, ensuring safety in high-risk situations
  • Maintain strong communication with team members and clients, ensuring excellent service and safety at all times
  • Take ownership of your role, contributing to a positive, safety-focused team culture

What We’re Looking For

What is Essential:

  • Valid U.S. driver’s license (CDL is a plus)
  • Authorization to work legally in the U.S.
  • Passion for working outdoors and commitment to environmental stewardship

Experience:

  • Proficient in proper pruning techniques for large shade trees and ornamentals
  • Strong knowledge of tree and shrub species, including their characteristics
  • Comfortable climbing without spurs
  • Skilled in adhering to tree care safety standards
  • Experienced with chainsaws, aerial lifts (bucket trucks), and other essential tree care equipment

Technical Knowledge:

  • Expertise in proper pruning cuts, branch collars, and chainsaw operations (for trees up to 50 feet)
  • Familiarity with ANSI A300 Pruning Standards and ANSI Z safety guidelines
  • Ability to perform aerial rescues and apply various climbing techniques
  • Comfortable working with a diverse range of tree species, including Oaks, Maples, Hemlocks, Pines, and more

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to lift and move up to 50 pounds frequently
  • Ability to safely perform climbing and aerial work in varying conditions
  • Experience with tree removal, including knowing when to use ropes or spikes for safe takedown

· This job requires physical stamina to meet the demands of climbing, lifting, and performing tasks outdoors. You’ll frequently lift and move heavy equipment and must be comfortable working in a variety of weather conditions.

Equal OpportunityAt SavATree, we believe in fostering a supportive environment where you can grow and succeed. We offer you the opportunity to advance your career and become an industry expert while working with a team that values both individual and collective success.

SavATree is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace.


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