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Tree Care Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tree Care Crew Leader

Addison, TX · On-site

$32 - $38/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 ...

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 ...

Tree Care Crew Leader

Houston, TX · On-site

$30 - $38/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 ...

Tree Care Crew Leader

Alexander, AR · On-site

$28 - $35/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 ...

Tree Care Crew Leader

Fort Mill, SC · On-site

$32 - $38/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 ...

Tree Care Crew Leader

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$30 - $40/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 ...

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 ...

Tree Care Crew Leader

Richmond, VA · On-site

$32 - $38/hr

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

Tree Care Crew Leader

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$33 - $39/hr

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

Tree Care Crew Leader

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$32 - $38/hr

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

Tree Care Crew Leader

Fort Mill, SC · On-site

$32 - $38/hr

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

Tree Care Crew Leader

Alexander, AR · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

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

Tree Care Crew Leader

Houston, TX · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

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

Showing results 41-60

Tree Care Equipment Operator information

See salary details

$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.

Tree Care Crew Leader

Houston, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Would you enjoy working for a growing company?

Joshua Tree Experts, the leader in outdoor home services in Houston, is seeking a Tree Care Crew Leader to join our safety-first, and fast growing team.

As a Crew Leader, you will be an essential and valued member of the Tree Crew with the primary responsibility of performing all tree and shrub care services on residential and commercial properties. Crew Leaders with Joshua Tree Experts enjoy working for a company that is focused on safety and positive company culture.

Crew Leaders oversee daily job-site execution while working alongside their crew. This is a customer-facing role that requires clear communication, professionalism, and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of personalities - including homeowners, property managers, sales arborists, and crew members.

You'll be trusted to represent Joshua Tree Experts on job sites and ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and in a way that reflects the culture in Houston.

What You'll Do:
  • Working with the Tree Crew, perform and delegate tree care operations to residential and commercial properties
  • Operate Spyder lifts, bucket lifts, loaders, and various saws safely to prune, remove, or manage growth of trees and shrubs
  • Monitor and maintain assigned equipment
  • Communicate with clients while completing services to ensure satisfaction
  • Conduct all aspects of arboriculture related to tree risk assessment, pruning, removing, and cabling and bracing
  • Learn, understand, and implement company safety rules and regulations
What We're Looking For:
  • Excellent understanding of tree care operations and safe tree care practices
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in tree care, including pruning, trimming, and removals
  • Strong ability to climb and navigate a tree safely and efficiently
  • Extensive knowledge of tree species, diseases, and proper care techniques
  • 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 on the job
  • Ability communicate effectively with team members, clients, and supervisors
  • Valid Drivers License and clean driving record (CDL-B is preferred)
  • ISA Certified Arborist is preferred

What can Joshua Tree Experts do for YOU:

  • A culture focused on SAFETY
  • Career advancement opportunities!
  • Company that values a great WORK/LIFE balance
  • Full time, YEAR ROUND employment with benefits (Medical, Dental, and Vision)
  • Paid Vacation, Holidays, and PTO Days

Apply now to start your new career with Joshua Tree Experts!