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Pruning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Climber & Pruner

Arkville, NY

$22.50 - $31/hr

Specifically, this position will be focused on all types of work required for the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees and large shrubs, by climbing, pruning, cutting, and felling, along DEP ...

Climber & Pruner

Flushing, NY · On-site

$22.25 - $30.75/hr

... pruning, bracing, cutting and felling trees and large shrubs and operating manual, power driven and motorized equipment required for the performance of these duties. Experience as a ground person is ...

Climber & Pruner

Arkville, NY

$22.50 - $31/hr

Specifically, this position will be focused on all types of work required for the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees and large shrubs, by climbing, pruning, cutting, and felling, along DEP ...

Climber & Pruner

Arkville, NY

$22.50 - $31/hr

Specifically, this position will be focused on all types of work required for the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees and large shrubs, by climbing, pruning, cutting, and felling, along DEP ...

Climber & Pruner

Flushing, NY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

... pruning, bracing, cutting and felling trees and large shrubs and operating manual, power driven and motorized equipment required for the performance of these duties. Experience as a ground person is ...

Climber & Pruner

Arkville, NY · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Specifically, this position will be focused on all types of work required for the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees and large shrubs, by climbing, pruning, cutting, and felling, along DEP ...

Ability to gain proficiency and knowledge of different climbing systems is required Pruning: * Must be able to prune young and mature trees using ISA and ANSI Z133.1 pruning standards, as well as ...

Climber & Pruner

Flushing, NY · On-site

$22.25 - $30.75/hr

... pruning, bracing, cutting and felling trees and large shrubs and operating manual, power driven and motorized equipment required for the performance of these duties. Experience as a ground person is ...

Landscaping Pruner

Koloa, HI · On-site

$29.10/hr

The Pruner/Tree Trimmer operates an array of landscaping equipment to remove and dispose of unwanted branches, shrubs and trees and often operates and performs on lifts at the tree top levels or ...

Tree Pruner

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$27.93/hr

Performs tree care maintenance such as pruning, removal, planting, mulching, staking, fertilizing and watering. * Operates heavy equipment (e.g., aerial portion of the bucket truck, chipper truck ...

Landscaping Pruner

Koloa, HI · On-site

$29.10/hr

The Pruner/Tree Trimmer operates an array of landscaping equipment to remove and dispose of unwanted branches, shrubs and trees and often operates and performs on lifts at the tree top levels or ...

Tree Pruner

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$27.93/hr

POSITION DUTIES Performs tree care maintenance such as pruning, removal, planting, mulching, staking, fertilizing and watering. Operates heavy equipment (e.g., aerial portion of the bucket truck ...

Landscaping Pruner

Koloa, HI · On-site

$29.10/hr

The Pruner/Tree Trimmer operates an array of landscaping equipment to remove and dispose of unwanted branches, shrubs and trees and often operates and performs on lifts at the tree top levels or ...

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Pruning information

See salary details

$15

$29

$50

How much do pruning jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for pruning 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 is pruning and what does a pruning job involve?

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.

Can you make a career out of gardening?

A career in gardening, including pruning, involves working as a horticulturist, landscaper, or arborist, often requiring knowledge of plant care, pruning techniques, and environmental conditions. Many roles require physical stamina, attention to detail, and sometimes certifications or training in horticulture or arboriculture. Opportunities exist in landscaping companies, nurseries, parks, and private estates.

What is the role of pruning?

Pruning is a key task in horticulture and landscaping jobs that involves selectively removing parts of plants, such as branches or stems, to improve health, shape, and productivity. It requires knowledge of plant biology and often involves using tools like shears or saws to ensure proper cuts and plant care.

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 is the job called when you cut down trees?

The job of cutting down trees is called tree felling or logging. It involves using tools like chainsaws and requires knowledge of safety procedures and environmental regulations. Tree workers may also perform pruning and removal of branches as part of their duties.

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, and why are they important?

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.

Is an arborist a hard job?

Arborists perform physically demanding work that involves climbing, pruning, and removing trees, often in challenging outdoor environments. The job requires strength, technical skills, and safety awareness, and may involve working at heights and handling heavy equipment. Certification and training are important for safety and efficiency.
More about Pruning jobs
What cities are hiring for Pruning jobs? Cities with the most Pruning job openings:
What states have the most Pruning jobs? States with the most job openings for Pruning jobs include:
Climber & Pruner

$22.50 - $31/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


City Of New York rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

465th of 673 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Description

The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) enriches the environment and protects public health for all New Yorkers by providing 1.1 billion gallons of high quality drinking water, managing wastewater and stormwater, and reducing air, noise, and hazardous materials pollution. DEP is the largest combined municipal water and wastewater utility in the country, with nearly 6,000 employees. DEP's water supply system is comprised of 19 reservoirs and 3 controlled lakes throughout the system's 2,000 square mile watershed that extends 125 miles north and west of the City.
The Bureau of Water Supply seeks to hire a Climber & Pruner with the West of Hudson Tree Task Force within the Drinking Water Operations Directorate, for a position located in Arkville, New York.
Under supervision, of the Supervisor (Watershed Maintenance) II, the Climber & Pruner will use computerized, electronic, and mechanical equipment, to perform duties related to the operation, maintenance, repair and inspection of dams, aqueducts, facilities, vehicles, equipment, roads, bridges, land and related systems of the City of New York in accordance with Department Rules and Regulations. Specifically, this position will be focused on all types of work required for the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees and large shrubs, by climbing, pruning, cutting, and felling, along DEP's roads, property borders, aqueducts, boat launches, dams, and operating facilities. Specific duties include:
- Operating manual and power-driven equipment, operating cars and trucks; and operating other motorized equipment incidental to the performance of duties.
- Operating chainsaws, hooks, handsaws, shears, shredding and chipping equipment.
- Climbing, pruning, bracing, cutting and felling trees and large shrubs.
- Cleaning, sharpening, lubricating tools and equipment, and inspecting trees for existence of disease or pests.
- Cutting away dead and excess branches from trees, clearing branches and brush.
- Performing tasks related to general forestry work.
- Maintaining and keeping clean marginal areas around reservoirs, facilities and locations throughout the Watershed.
License Requirements:
- All candidates must have a Motor Vehicle Driver License valid in the State of New York. This license must be maintained for the duration of employment.
- Within one year of appointment, employee must possess a Class B Commercial Driver License, with Air Brake Endorsement, valid in the State of New York. The Class B Commercial Driver License must be maintained for the duration of this employment.
- Within one year of appointment, employee must possess a NYSDEC Pesticide Applicator Certification. The certification must be maintained for the duration of this employment.
(This is a brief description of what a Watershed Maintainer might do in this position and does not include all the duties of this position)
Some of the physical activities performed by Climber and Pruners and environmental conditions experienced are: climbing in and out of an aerial lift device (bucket truck); climbing up in a tree using rope and harness or bucket; operating a chainsaw; operating heavy motorized equipment such as bucket truck, chipper, loader, and stump grinder; lifting and moving heavy objects; standing for extended periods of time; and working outdoors in a restricted space in an urban environment in all kinds of weather, including severe weather conditions.
Special Working Conditions: Climber and Pruners may be required to work various shifts including nights, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
Preferred Skills:
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel and Outlook
- Ability to navigate CityTime; a timekeeping application
- Good working knowledge of safe climbing techniques and use of hand and power tools
- Ability to correctly use various powered equipment
- Ability to work orderly and safe.
- Ability to work efficiently.
- Ability to complete assignments with a minimum of direct supervision.
- Ability to cooperate and follow orders.
- Communication Skills
- Time Management Skills
Hours and Shift:
40 Hours per week. Shift work including nights, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.
Work Location:
669 County Road 38
Arkville, NY 12406
Arkville is a hamlet in the Town of Middletown, Delaware County, New York approximately 145 miles northwest of New York City.
CLIMBER & PRUNER - 81303

Qualifications

Six months of satisfactory, full-time experience as a climber and pruner or arborist performing all types of tree work required for the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees and large shrubs including climbing, pruning, bracing, cutting and felling trees and large shrubs and operating manual, power driven and motorized equipment required for the performance of these duties.
Experience as a ground person is not acceptable towards meeting this requirement.
Driver License Requirement: At the time of appointment, eligibles must possess a motor vehicle driver license valid in the State of New York, and a Class B Commercial Driver License valid in the State of New York within one year of being appointed to this position. Serious moving violations, license suspension or accident record may disqualify you. This Class B Commercial Driver License must be maintained for the duration of your employment. Such license must not include any restrictions which would preclude the performance of Climber and Pruner work.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.


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