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Tree Arborist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

New Image Landscape Company

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Arborist / Tree Manager

Fremont, CA · On-site

New Image Landscape Company (Fremont, CA) We are seeking a Arborist / Tree Supervisor to become an integral part of our team! New Image Landscape is growing rapidly in all of our seven Northern ...

Tree Masters

Sales Arborist

San Rafael, CA · On-site

As a Sales Arborist, you will be responsible for promoting and selling our tree care services to potential clients. You will be expected to develop and maintain relationships with clients, assess ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Ground Person

Concord, CA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

As an Arborist Ground Person, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working alongside Bartlett's dedicated team of arborists, gaining practical field experience in scientific tree and ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Crew Leader

Concord, CA · On-site

$35 - $53/hr

As an Arborist Crew Leader, you will be an integral member of the team, serving as the leader of a tree care crew with the primary responsibility of performing all tree care services safely and ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Crew Leader

Escondido, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

As an Arborist Crew Leader, you will be an integral member of the team, serving as the leader of a tree care crew with the primary responsibility of performing all tree care services safely and ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Crew Leader

Concord, CA · On-site

$35 - $53/hr

As an Arborist Crew Leader, you will be an integral member of the team, serving as the leader of a tree care crew with the primary responsibility of performing all tree care services safely and ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Crew Leader

Campbell, CA · On-site

$33 - $53/hr

As an Arborist Crew Leader, you will be an integral member of the team, serving as the leader of a tree care crew with the primary responsibility of performing all tree care services safely and ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Crew Leader

Campbell, CA · On-site

$33 - $53/hr

As an Arborist Crew Leader, you will be an integral member of the team, serving as the leader of a tree care crew with the primary responsibility of performing all tree care services safely and ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Crew Leader

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$33 - $53/hr

As an Arborist Crew Leader, you will be an integral member of the team, serving as the leader of a tree care crew with the primary responsibility of performing all tree care services safely and ...

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All JobsTree Arborist JobsTree Arborist Jobs in California

Tree Arborist information

See California salary details

$15

$28

$49

How much do tree arborist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree arborist in California is $28.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $32.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tree arborist?

Tree arborists, also known as arboriculturists, are professionals trained in the care, maintenance, and management of trees and woody plants. They assess tree health, diagnose diseases and pests, perform pruning and removal, and provide advice on proper tree care. Arborists use specialized equipment and knowledge to ensure trees are healthy, safe, and well-integrated into their environment. Their work helps maintain the safety, beauty, and ecological balance of landscapes.

What are the typical safety challenges faced by tree arborists, and how are they managed on the job?

Tree Arborists frequently work at significant heights and use heavy equipment, making safety a top priority. Common challenges include working near power lines, operating chainsaws, and managing falling branches. To address these risks, arborists follow strict safety protocols, wear personal protective equipment (PPE), and may work in teams to ensure constant communication and support. Regular safety training and adherence to industry standards help create a secure work environment.

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

To thrive as a Tree Arborist, you need strong knowledge of tree biology, pruning, and removal techniques, often supported by formal training or ISA certification. Familiarity with chainsaws, climbing gear, aerial lifts, and tree risk assessment tools is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, physical fitness, and communication skills help arborists manage hazards and interact with clients effectively. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safety, maintaining tree health, and delivering professional service in a high-risk environment.

What is the difference between Tree Arborist vs Tree Trimmer?

AspectTree ArboristTree Trimmer
CertificationsCertified Arborist (e.g., ISA)Typically no formal certification required
Work EnvironmentUrban and suburban trees, often involved in health assessmentsPruning and trimming mainly for aesthetics or safety
Job ResponsibilitiesTree health care, disease diagnosis, planting, and removalPruning, shaping, and trimming trees and shrubs

While both roles involve working with trees, a Tree Arborist has specialized training and certifications focused on tree health and safety, often performing complex tasks like diagnosing diseases and planting. A Tree Trimmer primarily focuses on pruning and trimming for appearance and safety. The Arborist's role is broader and more technical, whereas the Trimmer's work is more routine and maintenance-oriented.

Is being a tree arborist a good career?

A tree arborist is a skilled professional who specializes in planting, caring for, and removing trees, often working outdoors with tools like chainsaws and climbing equipment. The career offers opportunities for physical activity, specialization through certifications, and steady demand due to urban forestry needs. Job prospects are generally stable, with potential for advancement into supervisory or consulting roles.

What does it take to be a tree arborist?

A tree arborist typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training in tree care, pruning, and safety procedures. Certification from organizations like the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) is often required or preferred, and physical fitness, climbing skills, and knowledge of tools and equipment are essential for the job.

What is the average pay of a tree arborist?

The average salary of a tree arborist in the United States ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level arborists typically earn lower wages, while those with advanced skills or specialized certifications can earn higher salaries. Many arborists work outdoors and may need to operate climbing and safety equipment.

What type of tree arborist makes the most money?

In the tree arborist profession, those with specialized skills such as aerial lift operators, climbers with advanced certifications, or arborists working in high-risk environments tend to earn higher wages. Certified arborists with extensive experience and additional qualifications like ISA Certified Tree Workers or utility line clearance certifications often command the highest salaries.

What are popular job titles related to Tree Arborist jobs in California?

For Tree Arborist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tree Arborist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Tree Arborist jobs in California are:

Tree Arborist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tree Arborist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,881 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Arborist / Tree Manager

Fremont, CA • On-site

New Image Landscape Company
Facilities Support Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about New Image Landscape Companyexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

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Job description

New Image Landscape Company (Fremont, CA)

We are seeking a Arborist / Tree Supervisor to become an integral part of our team! New Image Landscape is growing rapidly in all of our seven Northern California locations and is currently looking for a leader for our Fremont Branch. New Image is a great company to work since it started in 1996 and continues to provide opportunities to be well paid with great advancement potential in all our locations. Healthcare benefits and performance based incentives are available with this exciting young leader in Tree Care Operations and Commercial Landscape Management.

Job Description
We are looking for a full-time Arborist to take on some combination of the following tasks. This position needs to be filled with someone who is reliable, a fast learner, has a high attention to accuracy and is driven to learn and grow.
Purpose: Support tree care service operations of the company by working with the Operations Manager & Field Supervisors as well as other team members.
Duties (Tree Division)

  • Provide primary POC customer service for tree care client portfolio
  • Arborist and Tree Work Sales / Commission
  • Administrative Paperwork
  • Manage Tree Care Team Schedules
  • Interface with Office Departments

Skills Needed:

  • Commercial Tree Care Arborist Experience
  • High attention to detail/accuracy.
  • Able to work independently on a task, but still ask questions as needed.
  • Organized and able to prioritize in a fast paced environment.
  • Thorough knowledge and experience in the landscape seasons.
  • Knowledge of Excel and Word.
  • Strong communication skills (written and verbal).


Plus:

  • College Degree
  • Able to communicate in Spanish.


Qualified applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to be considered for the position.
Please Note: This is a general job posting. Exact responsibilities and duties will be explained throughout the training process. This post does not constitute a contract, commitment or promise of any kind. We reserve the right to change, add, delete, upgrade or downgrade the position as dictated by business necessity at any time with or without notice.
New Image Landscape Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace.

Company Description

New Image Landscape Company provides high-quality landscape management services to homeowners associations, apartment complexes, commercial buildings, and municipalities all across Northern California. We take pride in delivering exceptional customer service, attention to detail, prompt response to work orders, highly trained employees, and commitment to safety. We believe in building long-lasting partnerships with all our clients by providing a dedicated team that is passionate, engaging, and motivated professionals.