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Tree Cutter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Tree Trimmer

Hayward, CA · On-site

$110K - $128K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... cutters and stump removers. 11. Performs related duties as assigned. Link to full Class Specifications | Tree Trimmer | Class Spec Details (governmentjobs.com) CORE COMPETENCIES Knowledge of:

Tree Trimmer

Hayward, CA · On-site

$110K - $128K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Tree Trimmer performs skilled and semi-skilled work in maintaining trees on public grounds and ... root cutters and stump removers. 11. Performs related duties as assigned. Link to full CORE ...

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Tree Climber and Crew Leader

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$32 - $53/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Be a part of a cutting-edge tree specialist family and work in an exciting, innovative, fast-growing company. About the Role We are looking for an experienced Climber and Crew Leader to support our ...

Tree Trimmer/Hardscape Worker I

Lakewood, CA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... before cutting limbs Tie and stake trees Perform the grinding of hardscape displacement, which ... Use tree trimming, fall protection and other related safety tools and equipment; provide training ...

Groundman

Livermore, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Learn proper pruning and tree removal techniques and safe equipment operation. * Understand and follow all company safety requirements. * Assist in cutting, chipping, and loading brush and wood.

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Tree Cutter information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do tree cutter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree cutter in California is $17.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tree cutter?

Tree cutters, also known as tree fellers or arborists, are professionals who specialize in cutting down, trimming, and removing trees. They use specialized equipment to ensure trees are removed safely and efficiently, often working in both residential and commercial settings. Tree cutters may also assess tree health, remove hazardous limbs, and clear debris after storms. Their work is essential for maintaining safety, property value, and environmental health.

What is the difference between Tree Cutter vs Tree Trimmer?

AspectTree CutterTree Trimmer
CertificationsChainsaw safety, OSHA certificationsChainsaw safety, OSHA certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, forestry, urban treesOutdoor, landscaping, residential and commercial trees
Job FocusRemoving or felling treesPruning and shaping trees
Tools UsedChainsaws, axes, ropesPruning shears, chainsaws, ladders

Tree Cutter and Tree Trimmer both work outdoors with trees, often requiring similar safety certifications. However, Tree Cutters focus on removing or felling trees, while Tree Trimmers specialize in pruning and shaping. Their tools overlap but are used for different purposes, and their work environments are similar, typically in urban or residential settings.

What safety protocols are typically followed by tree cutters during daily operations?

Tree cutters are required to adhere to strict safety protocols to minimize risk, including wearing personal protective equipment such as helmets, gloves, and chainsaw-resistant clothing. They conduct thorough site assessments to identify hazards like power lines or unstable trees and use safe cutting techniques to prevent accidents. Team communication is essential, with crew members coordinating closely to ensure everyone is clear of danger zones. Regular training and adherence to industry standards set by organizations like OSHA help maintain a safe work environment.

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

Tree Cutters require expertise in tree identification, safe cutting techniques, and physical stamina, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with chainsaws, rigging equipment, and safety gear, along with certifications like OSHA or ISA credentials, is typically necessary. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help Tree Cutters work safely and efficiently in dynamic outdoor environments. These competencies are crucial to ensure safety, prevent property damage, and deliver quality tree removal or maintenance services.

How much do tree cutters make?

Tree cutters typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and whether they are employed or self-employed. Experienced climbers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, especially when working with hazardous or large trees. Annual salaries generally range from $30,000 to $60,000 or more.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tree Cutter jobs in California?

The most popular types of Tree Cutter jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Tree Cutter jobs?

Cities in California with the most Tree Cutter job openings:

Infographic showing various Tree Cutter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,546 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

$110K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description DEADLINE TO APPLY: Sunday, August 23rd 2026, by 11:59 p.m. THE POSITION: Tree Trimmer performs skilled and semi-skilled work in maintaining trees on public grounds and rights of way. This position supervises a tree trimming crew and performs other related work as required

You are: The ideal candidate will have journey level experience and is expected to perform the full range of tree trimming duties as assigned. It will be imperative that the ideal candidate possess knowledge of Bay Area trees, tools, and tree trimming techniques. This role requires that the candidate be safety minded, a team player, a good communicator, and able to analyze stressful situations while remaining calm.

The ideal candidate should possess climbing skills to a level they can work independently and perform all aspects of tree maintenance and removal. They shall have skills to use app-based computer programs to input time sheets and open and close work orders. The ideal candidate shall be proficient with chainsaws, ariel lift truck, chipper, and stump grinder.

A desired qualification for this position is a Tree Worker or Arborist certification through the International Society of Arborist (ISA). Essential Duties What you will do: 1. Duties may include, but are not limited to the following: 2.

Operates aerial high tower unit and associated tools and equipment used in tree crew operations. 3. Trims, tops, fells, and cables trees.

4. May use rope and saddle in trimming and felling operations. 5.

Mixes spray materials and operates power driven spray equipment. 6. Performs and directs rigging of lines, blocks and guys required in tree maintenance work.

7. Performs preventive maintenance on hand tools and power driven equipment. 8.

Supervises tree trimming crew and keeps time sheets. 9. Answers questions from the public related to tree trimming operations.

10. Operates other related tree maintenance equipment such as root cutters and stump removers. 11.

Performs related duties as assigned. Link to full job description: Class Specifications | Tree Trimmer | Class Spec Details (governmentjobs.com) CORE COMPETENCIES Knowledge of: Accepted methods of trimming, topping and felling trees. Common species of Bay Area trees

High climbing techniques and safe operating procedures. Common spray materials. Ability to: Supervise a crew, keep time sheets and work harmoniously with other crews.

Operate aerial high tower units and associated tools and equipment. Perform tasks requiring good physical strength and agility. Follow written and oral directions.

Deal courteously and effectively with the public. Use rope and saddle in trimming and felling operations. Minimum Qualifications JOB RELATED AND ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS You have: Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Experience: Two (2) years of experience in the trimming and topping of trees. Education: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade. License: Possess and maintain a valid Class C California Driver's License.

Must obtain Class B License during probationary period. Depending upon assignment, a Class A Driver's License and/or a California Tanker Endorsement may be required. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Essential duties require the mental and/or physical work environment: work in variable indoor and outdoor conditions; tolerate exposure to outdoor elements in all weather conditions (e.g

heat, cold, and rain) throughout the year; be able to tolerate some exposure to noise, vibration, chemicals, moving objects, traffic, engine exhaust, dust, mechanical and electrical hazards, and odorous environments; frequently kneel, stoop, crouch, squat, climb, twist, and handle equipment; grasp, perform repetitive hand movements and fine coordination to prepare documents and data using a computer keyboard and mouse/trackball; sit for prolonged periods of time; stand, walk, reach, bend and safely lift and move equipment and materials weighing up to 75 pounds; converse by telephone, by email, in person, and be clearly understood; read and comprehend documents; interact with the public and all different levels of City staff in an effective and professional manner. Essential functions must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation. PROBATIONARY PERIOD: One (1) year Supplemental Information BENEFITS AND REWARDS: Depending on employee group, some of these benefits may include: Vacation - 80 hours minimum 15.5 Paid Holidays Generous employer contribution for Health, Dental and Vision coverage CalPERS Defined Benefit Retirement Plan (2.5% at 55 for Classic CalPERS members | 2.0% at 62 for New CalPERS members | 3.0% at 50 for Classic Safety members | 2.7% at 57 for New Safety Members) - No Social Security participation

Life and Disability Insurance and Paid Leave Flexible Spending Accounts Tuition Reimbursement Health and Wellness Reimbursement Professional Development Reimbursement 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (employee paid) SELECTION PROCEDURE Apply - submit a completed City of Hayward job application and responses to the Supplemental Questionnaire, which fully describe the nature of their professional experience and qualifications. Application Review - A. Minimum qualifications B.

Completion of the supplemental questionnaire The rating of the supplemental questions may determine application status and/or rank on the eligible list. Applications submitted without all required materials will not be considered. Job Related Testing (examination)- Please note that all testing dates are tentative and subject to change.

Written Examination - Tentatively Scheduled for Friday, September 11th, 2026 Performance Exam - TBD *You will be required to bring your own climbing gear for the performance examination The examination process will result in a ranked eligible register of candidates for hiring consideration by the department derived from any of the exam processes mentioned above. Department Interviews - Actual hire depends on success in the departmental selection process. The date for department interviews is to be determined.

Candidates under final consideration for employment with the City should expect to undergo an employment background/reference check that may include, but is not limited to: employment history verification, medical evaluation, confirmation of educational credentials and degrees, licenses including driver's license, registrations, certificates, and other credentials as part of the appointment process. Some positions, depending on the nature of the work, also require a credit check and a review of Summary Criminal History obtained from the State Department of Justice through Live Scan Fingerprinting. Applicants will be notified electronically via Government Jobs as to their status in the selection process.

It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure they can receive email notice from Neogov/Government Jobs and the City of Hayward. The City of Hayward reserves the right to modify the selection process as necessary to conform to administrative or business necessity. APPLICATIONS Candidates are encouraged to apply online at www.hayward-ca.gov under the Current Vacancies tab or at www.GovernmentJobs.com

Paper applications can be obtained by visiting the Human Resources Department at Hayward City Hall located at 777 B Street, Hayward, CA 94541. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m

Apply prior to the closing time of the job announcement and allow at least one (1) hour to submit your application if you are a new user to the system. Our on-line application system is provided by Government Jobs. If you have problems while applying online, please contact the Government Jobs Help Desk at (855) 524-5627.

The City of Hayward is an Equal Opportunity Employer