1

Summer Tree Planting Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Summer Tree Planting information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$16

$22

How much do summer tree planting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer tree planting in Iowa is $16.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced during a summer tree planting job, and how can they be managed?

Summer tree planting can be physically demanding due to long hours outdoors, variable weather conditions, and the repetitive nature of the work. Workers often face challenges like fatigue, heat exposure, and adapting to uneven or remote terrain. Staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing, and following safety protocols are essential for managing these challenges. Teamwork and open communication with supervisors also help maintain productivity and address issues promptly. Being proactive in self-care and time management can make the season both rewarding and manageable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a summer tree planter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Summer Tree Planter, you need physical stamina, basic knowledge of tree species or planting techniques, and the ability to work outdoors for extended periods, often without formal qualifications. Familiarity with hand tools like shovels or planting bars, and adherence to safety guidelines are typically required. Strong teamwork, self-motivation, and resilience help individuals excel in variable weather and remote work environments. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality tree planting, which is vital for meeting environmental goals and project deadlines.

What is summer tree planting?

Summer tree planting is a seasonal job where workers plant young trees, typically in recently logged or deforested areas, to help restore forests and promote environmental sustainability. The work usually takes place outdoors during the summer months and involves physically demanding tasks such as digging holes, carrying seedlings, and ensuring proper planting techniques. It is often done in remote locations and can be physically challenging but rewarding for those who enjoy working in nature and making a positive environmental impact.

What is the difference between Summer Tree Planting vs Tree Care Worker?

AspectSummer Tree PlantingTree Care Worker
CertificationsNone typically required, some may have landscaping or horticulture experienceOften requires horticulture or arborist certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, seasonal, planting new trees in various locationsOutdoor, ongoing maintenance, pruning, and health assessment of trees
Job FocusPlanting and establishing new trees during summerMaintaining and caring for existing trees

Summer Tree Planting involves planting new trees during the summer season, focusing on establishing young trees. Tree Care Workers primarily maintain and care for existing trees, including pruning and health assessments. While both roles are outdoor and may require similar physical skills, Summer Tree Planting emphasizes planting activities, whereas Tree Care Workers focus on ongoing maintenance.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tree Planting jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Tree Planting jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Summer Tree Planting jobs in Iowa? For Summer Tree Planting jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Summer Tree Planting jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Summer Tree Planting jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Summer Tree Planting jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Summer Tree Planting job openings:
Infographic showing various Summer Tree Planting job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $34,438 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Landscaping/snow removal

Healthy Turf Landscaping INC

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Come work for Healthy Turf Landscaping here in Des Moines Iowa! Our shop is located in Ankeny IA.

**If you know how to push snow and mow apply here!

We are looking for a full time employee, the employee must be a self-starter, able to safely, quickly and efficiently plow snow, shovel/snowblow sidewalks, lay salt and possibly run a salt and sand truck. Work during the fall/winter can consist of equipment maintenance, fall cleanups at properties, snow removal when it snows, installation of christmas lights, planting trees in early/late fall, small tree trimming etc.

For Spring and Summer work, employee should also know how to mow/trim multiple locations in a day and have an eye for quality work. Work in a typical day includes - picking up trash, mowing, trimming, blowing off grass trimmings, pulling weeds, small landscaping work, tree trimming and driving a truck and trailer.

It is beneficial if you have experience plowing snow with either a straight blade or v-blade. You will need to have some knowledge with zero turn mowers, we run John Deere 60” and 72” mowers with Stihl weed eaters.