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Tree Care Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Earthborne Inc.

$125 - $150/hr

TREE CARE EQUIPMENT SALES SPECIALIST Earthborne Trucks and Equipment Southeastern PA Six-Figure ... Family owned and operated since day one, we've built our reputation on relationships -- treating ...

Tree Masters

Tree Foreman

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

Certification as an Arborist or Tree Care Professional * Experience operating heavy equipment such as bucket trucks and chippers * Experience with tree inventory and mapping software Responsibilities:

TREE MASTERS

Tree Foreman

San Rafael, CA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Certification as an Arborist or Tree Care Professional * Experience operating heavy equipment such as bucket trucks and chippers * Experience with tree inventory and mapping software Responsibilities:

Elite Tree Care LLC

Be Seen First

Tree Climber

Coatesville, PA · On-site

$33 - $45/hr

Maintaining climbing gear and tree care equipment to be sure that all equipment and tools are safe ... Medical and 401K Company Description Elite Tree Care, LLC is family owned and operated. A close ...

Joshua Tree Experts

Tree Care Crew Leader

Houston, TX · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

We're focused on investing in YOU with paid education and top-tier equipment to get the job done. Your Role: * Lead and perform all residential/commercial tree & shrub care. * Daily climbing required ...

Joshua Tree Experts

Tree Care Crew Lead/Foreman

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Proficient in operating and maintaining various tree care equipment, such as chainsaws, chippers, and stump grinders * Excellent problem solving abilities and the capacity to make informed decisions ...

One Two Tree

Tree Climber - One Two Tree

Miami, FL · On-site

$20.25 - $28/hr

... operating climbing equipment, rigging systems, chainsaws, and aerial lift equipment. The ideal candidate is a dependable team player with strong tree care knowledge and a commitment to safety.

Cowboy Cuts Tree Service

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Tree Climber - Bucket Operator

Hartford, WI · On-site

$300 - $600/day

Safely operate chainsaws, chippers, stump grinders, and other tree-care equipment. * Set up and use ... Experience operating aerial lifts or bucket trucks. * Knowledge of proper pruning and tree-removal ...

Joshua Tree Experts

Tree Climber

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Proficient in operating and maintaining various tree care equipment, such as chainsaws, chippers, and stump grinders * Excellent problem solving abilities and the capacity to make informed decisions ...

Joshua Tree Experts

Tree Care Crew Lead/Foreman

Duluth, GA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.50/hr

We're focused on investing in YOU with paid education and top-tier equipment to get the job done. Your Role: * Lead and perform all residential/commercial tree & shrub care. * Daily climbing required ...

Collins tree experts

Tree Care Foreman

Ridgely, MD · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Quality Equipment: We invest in the tools you need to do the job safely and efficiently ... Manage daily operations for a tree care crew, ensuring safety and efficiency on every job site.

LandGraphics

Tree Climber

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Operate chainsaws, pole saws, woodchippers, stump grinders, and other tree care equipment. * Inspect trees for hazards, disease, and structural concerns. * Maintain climbing gear, tools, and ...

LandGraphics

Tree Climber

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Operate chainsaws, pole saws, woodchippers, stump grinders, and other tree care equipment. * Inspect trees for hazards, disease, and structural concerns. * Maintain climbing gear, tools, and ...

Joshua Tree Experts

Tree Care Crew Leader

Houston, TX · On-site

We're focused on investing in YOU with paid education and top-tier equipment to get the job done. Your Role: * Lead and perform all residential/commercial tree & shrub care. * Safely operate lifts ...

Joshua Tree Experts

Tree Care Crew Leader

Raleigh, NC · On-site

We're focused on investing in YOU with paid education and top-tier equipment to get the job done. Your Role: * Lead and perform all residential/commercial tree & shrub care. * Daily climbing required ...

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Tree Care Equipment Operator information

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$14

$23

$33

How much do tree care equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree care equipment operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tree care equipment operator?

Tree Care Equipment Operators are professionals trained to operate specialized machinery and tools used in the maintenance, removal, and care of trees. Their responsibilities include handling equipment such as chainsaws, wood chippers, stump grinders, and aerial lifts to prune, trim, or remove trees safely and efficiently. They often work alongside arborists and landscaping crews, ensuring that all operations adhere to safety standards and environmental regulations. Proper training and certification are usually required to operate these machines, given the inherent risks involved.

What are some common challenges faced by tree care equipment operators on the job?

Tree Care Equipment Operators often encounter challenges related to working in various weather conditions, operating heavy machinery safely near power lines or structures, and coordinating with team members to ensure efficient and safe tree removal or trimming. Navigating tight spaces and maintaining equipment are also daily concerns. Effective communication and strong situational awareness are essential to manage these challenges and minimize risks on the job.

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

To thrive as a Tree Care Equipment Operator, you need knowledge of arboriculture practices, experience with heavy machinery, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with chainsaws, wood chippers, aerial lifts, and safety certifications such as OSHA or ISA credentials is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and situational awareness are valuable soft skills for working safely in dynamic outdoor environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and professional tree care operations.

What is the difference between Tree Care Equipment Operator vs Tree Trimmer?

AspectTree Care Equipment OperatorTree Trimmer
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsClimbing and pruning certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, working with heavy machinery and equipmentOutdoor, focusing on pruning and trimming trees
Employer & IndustryTree care companies, municipal parks, landscaping firmsTree service companies, landscaping businesses

Tree Care Equipment Operators primarily handle heavy machinery like bucket trucks and chippers, requiring safety and equipment operation certifications. Tree Trimmers focus on pruning and trimming trees, often with climbing gear. Both roles work outdoors in similar environments and are essential in tree maintenance services, but their responsibilities and required skills differ.

What are popular job titles related to Tree Care Equipment Operator jobs?

For Tree Care Equipment Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Tree Care Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Aerial Platform Operator Tree Care

Pensacola, FL • On-site

Tri-State Tree Service
1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Tri-State Tree Serviceexternal

$50K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate bucket trucks, aerial lifts, chippers, and specialized equipment for tree care tasks.

  • Perform tree trimming, pruning, removal, and rigging from aerial platforms.

  • Assist with ground-based tree care activities, debris handling, and support rigging and material handling.

Job description

Aerial Platform Operator - Tree Care

JOB OVERVIEW

The Equipment Operator at Tri-State Tree Service operates specialized tree care equipment while performing ground work and aerial operations from bucket trucks and lifts. This skilled position combines equipment operation with hands-on tree care, including cutting, roping, and rigging from aerial platforms. Support all tree care operations except traditional rope climbing, with excellent advancement opportunities toward crew leadership.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Equipment & Aerial Operations

  • Operate bucket trucks, aerial lifts, chippers, and specialized equipment
  • Perform tree trimming, pruning, and removal from aerial platforms
  • Cut, rope, and rig branches from bucket truck and lift platforms
  • Conduct equipment inspections and routine maintenance
  • Coordinate with ground crew for safe debris management and rigging
Ground Operations & Safety

  • Assist with ground-based tree care activities and debris handling
  • Operate chainsaws, pole saws, and hand tools for ground-level cutting
  • Support climbers with rigging, rope work, and material handling
  • Follow ANSI/OSHA safety protocols and company procedures
  • Report safety hazards and equipment issues immediately
Customer Relations & Site Management

  • Interact professionally with clients and address concerns
  • Maintain clean, organized job sites and professional appearance
  • Manage job site organization and thorough cleanup
  • Ensure customer satisfaction through quality workmanship
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Required

  • 2+ years tree service experience with equipment operation background
  • Proficiency operating bucket trucks, aerial lifts, and tree care equipment
  • Experience with chainsaws, cutting techniques, and rigging operations
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record
  • Ability to work confidently from aerial platforms at heights
Essential Skills

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and equipment troubleshooting abilities
  • Knowledge of tree biology, pruning techniques, and cutting methods
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness for aerial work
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills
  • Problem-solving abilities for equipment and operational challenges
Physical Requirements

  • Lift 30-50+ pounds regularly and work in aerial platforms
  • Comfortable working at heights from bucket trucks and lifts
  • Good vision, hearing, and coordination for safe equipment operation
  • Stamina for full days of physical outdoor work in various weather
  • Excellent balance and depth perception for aerial operations
Preferred

  • Crane operation experience
  • Basic mechanical repair and maintenance skills
  • Bucket truck or aerial lift certification
  • Advanced rigging and cutting technique knowledge
Pre-Employment Requirements: This position requires successful completion of pre-employment screening, including but not limited to: background verification, and motor vehicle record review. Employment is contingent upon satisfactory results of all required screenings. Candidates unable to meet these requirements should not apply.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

Schedule: M-F with occasional weekend emergency work Benefits: 401(k) matching, health/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, PTO, professional development
WORK ENVIRONMENT

Outdoor work across residential and commercial sites. Work from ground level and aerial platforms using specialized equipment. Physical demands include equipment operation, cutting, and debris management in various weather conditions.
ABOUT TRI-STATE TREE SERVICE

For 30+ years, Tri-State Tree Service has been excellence in tree care, serving Pensacola, FL. As a TCIA accredited company, we're among less than 1% with this prestigious certification. We invest in cutting-edge equipment and provide professional growth opportunities.
Job Type: Full-time | Advancement: Crew Leader opportunities available
Ready to operate specialized equipment while advancing your tree care career? Apply today!