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Tree Climber Trainee Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Tree Climber Trainee information

What is a tree climber trainee?

Tree Climber Trainees are entry-level professionals who learn to safely climb and work in trees as part of arboriculture or tree care teams. Under the supervision of experienced climbers or arborists, trainees develop skills in using ropes, harnesses, and climbing equipment to prune, trim, or remove trees. Their training also covers safety protocols, tree biology, and the use of specialized tools. As they gain experience, trainees can progress to more advanced roles within the field.

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

To thrive as a Tree Climber Trainee, you need a basic understanding of tree biology, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with climbing gear, chainsaws, ropes, and safety harnesses is important, and some employers may require first aid or arborist certifications. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safety, efficiency, and the proper care of trees while working at heights.

What are some common challenges faced by tree climber trainees during their initial training period?

Tree Climber Trainees often encounter challenges such as developing the physical strength and endurance needed for climbing and handling heavy equipment at heights. Learning to use climbing gear safely, understanding tree biology, and mastering pruning techniques can also be demanding at first. Additionally, adapting to working outdoors in varying weather conditions and coordinating closely with ground crews requires strong communication and teamwork skills. Overcoming these challenges with support from experienced mentors is an important part of the learning process.

What is the difference between Tree Climber Trainee vs Tree Climber?

AspectTree Climber TraineeTree Climber
CertificationsOSHA safety training, climbing certifications often in progressComplete certifications, including aerial lift and climbing safety
Work EnvironmentUnder supervision, learning climbing and safety techniquesPerforms tree climbing, pruning, and removal independently
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with tasks, gaining experience in climbing and safetyExecuting tree work, climbing, and rigging tasks

The main difference between a Tree Climber Trainee and a Tree Climber is experience level and certification status. Trainees are in training, gaining skills and certifications, while Tree Climbers are experienced professionals performing independent work. Both roles are essential in the tree care industry, with trainees progressing toward full certification and responsibility.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tree Climber jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Tree Climber jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Tree Climber Trainee jobs in Illinois?

For Tree Climber Trainee jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tree Climber Trainee jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Tree Climber Trainee jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Tree Climber Trainee jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Tree Climber Trainee job openings:

Tree Climber Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tree Climber Trainee job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Arborist Climber Trainee

Bartlett Tree Experts

Lake Barrington, IL

$16 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Bartlett Tree Experts rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 36 rated gardening and landscaping

Job description

If you enjoy working outdoors in a professional and safe environment, consider a career with Bartlett Tree Experts! At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development.

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, 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 shrub care on commercial and residential properties. This is a unique entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on, on-the-job training.


  • $16.00 - $25.00 per hour
  • A safety-first culture and professional workplace
  • Advancement opportunities - we promote from within
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Industry credential/license pay increases - we encourage and invest in your professional development
  • Company provided uniforms, PPE, gear, and equipment
  • Boot reimbursement up to $150
  • Employee referral bonus program
  • Access to training, continuing education programs, and a variety of resources provided by the Bartlett Tree Experts Research Laboratories in Charlotte, NC

To find out more about what life is like at Bartlett, check us out on Instagram @LifeatBartlett. 


As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will play an important role in:

  • Learning through on-the-job training to safely perform all aspects of arboriculture, including:
    • Tree climbing
    • Pruning
    • Rigging
    • Cabling and bracing
    • Removal of hazardous trees
    • Tree identification
    • Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts)
    • Implementing work zone safety procedures
    • Assisting Arborist Climbers and Arborist Crew Leaders working on the ground and aloft
    • Assisting with driving, backing, dumping, and parking duties
  • Learning, understanding, and adhering to all safety rules and company safety policies

  • A passion for nature, the environment, and the outdoors
  • Interest in working outdoors year-round in all weather conditions
  • Valid driver's license
  • A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to work on a multi-disciplinary team
  • Prior tree care, landscaping, forestry, turf care, or horticulture experience is preferred but not required
  • Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Turfgrass, Environmental Science, Plant Science, Outdoor Recreation, Agriculture or a related field is preferred but not required

The F. A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.


Lake Barrington
IL
Production Arborist
7/29/2026
Regular Full-Time

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