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Tree Climber Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

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 ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Stamford, CT · On-site

$19.25 - $25/hr

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 ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

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 ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

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 ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Irwin, PA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

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 ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Auburn, MA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

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 ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Auburn, MA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

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 ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Irwin, PA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

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 ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Simsbury, CT · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

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 ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Monroe, CT · On-site

$18 - $23.25/hr

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 ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Dover, NH · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

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 ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

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 ...

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Tree Climber Trainee information

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How much do tree climber trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree climber trainee in the United States is $20.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tree Climber Trainee, and why are they important?

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.

How much do climbing arborists get paid?

Climbing arborists, including tree climber trainees, typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Pay varies based on experience, certifications, and geographic location, and often increases with skills in climbing, pruning, and safety procedures.

What are Tree Climber Trainees?

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 is the fatality rate for tree climbers?

Tree climbers face a higher risk of fatality compared to many other occupations, with industry estimates suggesting a fatality rate of approximately 50 to 100 deaths per 100,000 workers annually. Safety training, proper use of personal protective equipment, and adherence to safety protocols are essential to reduce risks in this physically demanding job that involves working at heights and using chainsaws and climbing gear.

What is a trainee arborist?

A trainee arborist is someone learning to care for and maintain trees, often working under supervision to develop skills in pruning, climbing, and safety procedures. The role typically involves hands-on training with tools like ropes, harnesses, and chainsaws, and may require certification or safety training as part of the apprenticeship process.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A Tree Climber Trainee can potentially earn around $4,000 a week with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand environments such as utility or commercial tree services. These roles often require physical fitness, safety certifications, and knowledge of climbing techniques, but they typically do not require a college degree. Earnings vary based on location, workload, and certification level.

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 cities are hiring for Tree Climber Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Tree Climber Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tree Climber jobs? The most popular types of Tree Climber jobs are:
What states have the most Tree Climber Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Tree Climber Trainee jobs include:
Tree Climber Trainee jobs near you
Arborist Climber Trainee

Arborist Climber Trainee

Bartlett Tree Experts

Cleveland, OH • On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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 33 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.


We offer competitive compensation, as well as:

  • 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.


Cleveland
OH
Production Arborist
6/15/2026
Regular Full-Time

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