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Tree Cutting Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Groundman

Kahului, HI · 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.

Tree Cutting information

See Hawaii salary details

$10

$24

$41

How much do tree cutting jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree cutting in Hawaii is $24.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.33 and $26.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is tree cutting?

Tree cutting is the process of removing or trimming trees, branches, or limbs for purposes such as safety, aesthetics, or land management. It often involves using specialized equipment like chainsaws, pole saws, and sometimes heavy machinery, depending on the tree's size and location. Professional tree cutting services ensure that trees are removed or pruned safely, minimizing risks to people, property, and surrounding vegetation. This service may also include stump removal and site clean-up. Proper tree cutting can prevent damage from falling branches and support the overall health of your landscape.

What are tree cutting jobs?

In a tree cutting job, your responsibilities include trimming or removing trees, cutting away dead branches, addressing the health of a tree, clearing away debris, and performing other landscape and cleanup duties. Some jobs require the use of a saw, shears, clippers, and other hand tools, while other tasks may involve climbing equipment, extended truck buckets, cables, and other braces to ensure the safety of workers. Both labor and management positions are available in the tree cutting industry. A tree cutter can also work with timber to prepare wood, or as an arborist to prune or apply treatment to ensure the health of a tree.

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

To thrive as a Tree Cutter, you need expertise in tree identification, pruning techniques, and safe operation of chainsaws, along with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety harnesses, climbing gear, and certifications such as OSHA or ISA credentials are commonly required. Physical stamina, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help ensure safe and efficient teamwork. These skills and qualities are crucial to prevent accidents, protect property, and guarantee high-quality tree care services.

What are some common challenges faced by tree cutting professionals, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Tree cutting professionals often encounter challenges such as working at heights, handling hazardous equipment, and dealing with unpredictable weather conditions. To address these, safety protocols are strictly followed, including the use of personal protective equipment, thorough site assessments, and clear communication within the team. Continuous training and adherence to industry standards help ensure both safety and efficiency, while teamwork and planning are essential for tackling complex or high-risk jobs.

What is the difference between Tree Cutting vs Tree Trimming?

AspectTree CuttingTree Trimming
PurposeRemove large sections or entire trees for safety, construction, or clearanceMaintain tree health and aesthetics by selectively pruning branches
ScopeMajor cuts, often involving removal of entire trees or large limbsLight to moderate pruning of branches and foliage
ToolsSaws, chainsaws, heavy equipmentPruning shears, hand saws, loppers
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, often in urban or rural settingsOutdoor, in gardens, parks, or residential areas

Tree Cutting and Tree Trimming both involve working with trees but serve different purposes. Tree Cutting focuses on removing large sections or entire trees for safety or construction needs, using heavy equipment. Tree Trimming is about maintaining tree health and appearance through selective pruning, using lighter tools. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right service for your needs.

Is tree cutting a hard job?

Tree cutting is physically demanding and requires skills in operating chainsaws and climbing equipment. It involves working at heights and handling heavy tools, which can be challenging and requires safety training and proper certification.

What are popular job titles related to Tree Cutting jobs in Hawaii?

For Tree Cutting jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tree Cutting jobs in Hawaii look for?

The top searched job categories for Tree Cutting jobs in Hawaii are:

Infographic showing various Tree Cutting job openings in Hawaii as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,386 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Description
Groundman
Position Summary:
The Tree Care Groundman supports the tree care crew with daily operations, including site cleanup, equipment handling, and assistance with pruning and removal tasks. This entry-level role is ideal for individuals looking to learn tree care practices and advance within the industry.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist Trimmers and Foreman during daily operations.
  • Control lowering ropes and supply tools to tree workers.
  • Manage road and sidewalk traffic using warning devices to ensure public safety.
  • Operate and drive tree care equipment, spray trucks, and tow-behind chippers (after training).
  • Maintain clean and organized job sites.
  • Provide professional and courteous customer service.
  • Maintain and prepare tools and equipment (e.g., chainsaws, chippers, and hand tools).
  • 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.
  • Learn to prune trees and shrubs from the ground and tie basic knots.
  • Use required personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Act responsibly and appropriately in emergency situations.
  • Work five consecutive 8-hour days, with flexibility for overtime as needed.

Requirements
Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to exert up to 100 lbs. of force occasionally, 50 lbs. frequently, and 20 lbs. constantly.
  • Capable of standing and walking for extended periods at the job site.
  • Frequent reaching, twisting, bending, and handling of tools and materials.
  • Repetitive movements involving hands, wrists, ankles, and knees.

Qualifications:
  • Strong observation and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with team members, managers, and customers.
  • Basic reading and writing proficiency in English.

Working Conditions:
  • Outdoor work in varying weather conditions (20°-100°F), including light rain.
  • Exposure to dust, pollen, chemicals, and noise common in the landscape industry.
  • Work in proximity to traffic and heavy equipment in busy commercial environments.