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Remote Tree Climber Jobs in Northbrook, IL (NOW HIRING)

Routesetter - Chicago

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18.50 - $22.50/hr

First Ascent Climbing & Fitness is on a mission to share our love of climbing with everyone, connect people through movement, and create welcoming, uplifting spaces that strengthen minds, bodies, and ...

Routesetter - Chicago

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18.50 - $22.50/hr

First Ascent Climbing & Fitness is on a mission to share our love of climbing with everyone, connect people through movement, and create welcoming, uplifting spaces that strengthen minds, bodies, and ...

Remote Tree Climber information

See Northbrook, IL salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do remote tree climber jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote tree climber in Northbrook, IL is $25.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.72 and $28.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a remote tree climber?

Remote tree climbers are skilled professionals who climb trees in locations that may be difficult to access, often using specialized climbing equipment and techniques. They typically work in forestry, arboriculture, or environmental conservation, performing tasks such as tree pruning, removal, health assessments, and sometimes conducting scientific research. Remote tree climbers often work in isolated or wild areas, requiring not only climbing expertise but also knowledge of safety, navigation, and sometimes survival skills. This job can be physically demanding and requires proper training and certification to ensure both the climber's safety and the health of the trees.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a remote tree climber?

To thrive as a Remote Tree Climber, you need expertise in arboriculture, tree climbing techniques, and physical fitness, often supported by certifications such as ISA Certified Arborist or Tree Climbing certifications. Familiarity with climbing gear, chainsaws, rigging systems, and safety equipment is crucial for safe and efficient work. Strong problem-solving, communication, and situational awareness help climbers adapt to challenging environments and work effectively with remote teams. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring safety, maintaining tree health, and delivering high-quality arborist services in diverse, often isolated locations.

What are some unique challenges faced by a remote tree climber and how can they be addressed?

Remote Tree Climbers often work in isolated or difficult-to-access environments, which can present challenges related to communication, safety, and equipment transport. It’s important to have reliable communication tools, such as two-way radios or satellite phones, and to conduct thorough risk assessments before starting a climb. Many teams use detailed planning, checklists, and regular safety check-ins to ensure climbers are supported and can respond quickly to emergencies. Being physically prepared and maintaining a strong attention to detail also helps in navigating the unique demands of remote locations.

What is the difference between Remote Tree Climber vs Ground Worker?

AspectRemote Tree ClimberGround Worker
CertificationsArborist certification, Climbing safety trainingBasic safety training, Equipment operation
Work EnvironmentHigh elevations, tree canopies, outdoorGround level, outdoor, near trees
Job ResponsibilitiesClimbing, pruning, removing treesAssisting with equipment, debris cleanup

The Remote Tree Climber primarily works at heights in trees, focusing on pruning and removal, requiring climbing certifications. The Ground Worker supports the climbing team from the ground, handling equipment and cleanup. Both roles are essential in tree care, but differ mainly in work environment and responsibilities.

How to get into remote tree climbing for work?

To become a remote tree climber, gain experience in arboriculture through relevant training or certifications such as ISA Tree Worker or Climber Specialist. Develop climbing skills using ropes, harnesses, and safety equipment, and seek employment with tree care companies or environmental organizations that offer remote or outdoor work opportunities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tree Climber jobs in Northbrook, IL?

The most popular types of Tree Climber jobs in Northbrook, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Remote Tree Climber jobs in Northbrook, IL?

For Remote Tree Climber jobs in Northbrook, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Tree Climber jobs in Northbrook, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Tree Climber jobs in Northbrook, IL are:

Infographic showing various Remote Tree Climber job openings in Northbrook, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,385 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Routesetter - Chicago

First Ascent LLC

Chicago, IL • Remote

$18.50 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

First Ascent Climbing & Fitness is on a mission to share our love of climbing with everyone, connect people through movement, and create welcoming, uplifting spaces that strengthen minds, bodies, and communities. We are looking to grow our Routesetting team with proactive, friendly, and psyched individuals who will help us continually get better at what we do as we discover how to best serve our members and guests.

ROLE SUMMARY

As a Routesetter at First Ascent, you play a critical role in creating engaging, thoughtful, and inspiring climbing experiences for climbers of all abilities. You’ll work closely with the Head Setter and setting team to set routes that align with gym goals, challenge and inspire climbers, and reflect a wide range of styles and movement.

We’re committed to building a diverse routesetting team and encourage individuals with different backgrounds, experiences, strengths, and perspectives to apply. Previous routesetting experience is not required — we value a strong work ethic, openness to feedback, and enthusiasm for learning.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Set routes or boulder problems at productivity, quality, and safety standards set by the Head Setter

  • Collaborate with the routesetting team to meet wall turnover schedules and grade distribution goals

  • Forerun routes and make adjustments to improve movement quality, safety, and accessibility

  • Assist with routesetting-related tasks such as hold stripping and washing, wall maintenance, and workspace organization

  • Work at height using ladders and other equipment while following all routesetting and risk-management protocols

  • Follow and help uphold FA’s routesetting and work-at-height safety practices

  • Minimum of two rope setting days per week

  • Receive and incorporate constructive feedback with a growth-oriented mindset

  • Conduct yourself with professionalism, respect, and a collaborative attitude

  • Pitch in on other tasks as needed to support gym operations and team success

JOB DETAILS

  • Hourly, full-time position (approximately 32–40 hours per week)

  • Health, Dental, Vision & Disability Insurance Offered

  • 401(k) Plan Offered

  • Typical schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

  • Occasional evenings or weekends may be required for competitions or special events

  • Starting hourly pay commensurate with experience

  • Ongoing training and professional development opportunities, including risk-management training

  • Free membership to all First Ascent locations

  • Access to industry pro deals

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

  • Minimum 1 year of setting experience

  • Ability to climb 5.12 on lead and V7 bouldering

  • Lead climbing experience preferred

  • Strong work ethic with the ability to work independently and as part of a small team

  • Comfort working in a fast-paced, highly variable environment

  • Enthusiasm for learning, sharing knowledge, and contributing to a positive team culture

  • Commitment to safety, communication, and continuous improvement

  • Love of climbing and excitement about shaping others’ climbing experiences

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & ENVIRONMENT

  • Ability to lift 50 lbs or more and perform strenuous physical labor regularly

  • Ability to work at height and on ladders

  • Ability to stand, reach, bend, climb, and move throughout the facility for extended periods

  • Indoor, climate-controlled environment with moderate to loud noise levels

  • Ability to focus and communicate effectively amid distractions


EEO STATEMENT
First Ascent is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. First Ascent does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, protective order status, military status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information, ancestry, pregnancy or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law. First Ascent prohibits harassment of any individual on any of the protected characteristics listed above.


ABOUT FIRST ASCENT CLIMBING & FITNESS
Since 2015, First Ascent Climbing & Fitness has been sharing our love of climbing, yoga and fitness with everyone that walks through our doors. With 8 gyms in the First Ascent family, we’re excited to keep serving and growing the climbing community, one climber at a time.


Learn more about us at faclimbing.com/about.