1

Tree House Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Arborist I

Reston, VA · On-site

$23.85 - $26.88/hr

ISA Arborist Certification and/or ISA Tree Worker Certification (preferred). * First AID and CPR Certification or ability to complete within 6 months of hire (certifications offered in-house)

Arborist I

Reston, VA · On-site

$23.85 - $26.88/hr

ISA Arborist Certification and/or ISA Tree Worker Certification (preferred). * First AID and CPR Certification or ability to complete within 6 months of hire (certifications offered in-house)

Tree House information

See Washington salary details

$14

$28

$40

How much do tree house jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree house in Washington is $28.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $31.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tree house?

Tree houses are structures built among the branches or trunks of living trees, typically elevated above the ground. They are used for various purposes such as recreation, habitation, or as a unique architectural feature. Tree houses can range from simple platforms to elaborate, multi-room homes and are popular for their connection to nature and minimal environmental impact. Building a tree house requires careful planning to ensure the safety of both the occupants and the tree. People often use them as play spaces for children, quiet retreats, or even as unique vacation rentals.

What are some common challenges faced by treehouse builders during construction projects?

Treehouse builders often encounter unique challenges such as ensuring the structure is safe and stable while minimizing harm to the host tree. Adapting designs to fit the natural growth patterns and irregularities of different trees requires creative problem-solving and precise carpentry skills. Additionally, weather conditions and access to elevated work areas can impact construction timelines and safety protocols. Collaborating closely with arborists, engineers, and clients is essential to address these challenges and deliver a successful project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an arborist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Arborist, you need expertise in tree biology, pruning techniques, and plant health care, often supported by relevant certifications like ISA Certified Arborist. Familiarity with tools such as chainsaws, climbing gear, and safety equipment is essential, along with knowledge of GIS mapping or tree inventory software. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to safety help Arborists effectively interact with clients and work in potentially hazardous conditions. These skills ensure the health and safety of trees, clients, and crew members while maintaining high service standards.

What is the difference between Tree House vs Carpenter?

AspectTree HouseCarpenter
Required CredentialsNone specific, some may have basic construction knowledgeTrade certifications or apprenticeship completion often required
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, on-site at various locations, often in natural settingsIndoor and outdoor construction sites, residential or commercial
Industry UsageSpecialized in designing and building tree houses or similar structuresGeneral construction, framing, finishing, and building projects

The main difference between a Tree House builder and a Carpenter is that Tree House builders focus specifically on designing and constructing tree houses, often working outdoors in natural environments. Carpenters have broader skills in general construction, working on a variety of building projects both indoors and outdoors. While carpenters may build structures similar to tree houses, Tree House builders specialize in creating structures that integrate with trees and natural settings.

What are popular job titles related to Tree House jobs in Washington?

For Tree House jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Tree House job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,454 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Arborist I

Reston, VA • On-site

Reston Association
Amusement, Gambling, and Recreation • 51 - 200 employees

$23.85 - $26.88/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Position Location

12250 Sunset Hills Road, Reston, VA 20191 

This is an on-site position requiring a minimum of four days per week at Reston Association’s Central Services Facility.

Position Overview

Are you passionate about tree care maintenance and making a difference in the community? At Reston Association (RA), we’re committed to enhancing the quality of life for Reston residents through outstanding programs, exceptional services, and dedicated stewardship of the community’s natural and recreational resources. As the community steward, RA is responsible for maintaining the quality of life in Reston, chiefly by caring for and administering the community's most precious asset - its real property. 

At RA, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We are actively seeking an Tree Care Technician/Arborist I to join our team! The primary function of this position is to perform tree care on Association land to protect members, prevent damage to property, and promote the health of natural resources.

The Tree Care Technician/Arborist I performs skilled tree care on Association land to protect members, safeguard property, and support the health of natural resources. This role conducts complex pruning, removals, and maintenance using climbing techniques, aerial lifts, chainsaws, rigging systems, and other specialized equipment in accordance with ANSI safety standards. The position also develops daily work and safety plans and operates large trucks, trailers, skid-steers, and related machinery.

The Tree Care Technician/Arborist 1 I participates in invasive exotic species control, monthly brush chipping, and other Natural Areas programs. Responsibilities include routine maintenance and inspection of tools, climbing gear, and life safety equipment; conducting tree inspections and natural area inventories; and working directly with residents regarding tree issues and property boundaries. As designated Emergency Services Personnel, the Arborist I also supports snow removal and assists with aerial lift operations during emergencies.

Duties include tree pruning along wooded edges near ballfields, courts, clusters, and recreation areas, as well as responding to emerging tree diseases and insect infestations. The Arborist I mentors the Arborist Assistant, providing guidance on safe chainsaw use and foundational tree care practices.

 What You’ll Bring

  • ISA Arborist Certification and/or ISA Tree Worker Certification (preferred). 
  • First AID and CPR Certification or ability to complete within 6 months of hire (certifications offered in-house).
  • Valid Driver’s License and good driving record.
  • Three or more years of tree care experience (preferred).
  • High School Degree or GED education equivalent.
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to interact courteously with members of the association on a regular basis.

What You Can Expect from Reston Association

At RA, we are leading the model community where all can Live, Work, Play and Get Involved, and we strive to preserve and enhance the Reston community through outstanding leadership, service and stewardship of our resources. Our Core Values of Service, Collaboration, Stewardship, Innovation and Leadership guide everything we do, and we are proud to provide a workplace in which everyone is treated as an individual with dignity and respect, encourages creativity, and always endeavors to provide an atmosphere that exceeds member expectations and engages collaboration and communication.

If you are passionate about a workplace that is dedicated to the preservation of natural resources and advancing community while at the same time creating a collaborative workplace, we want to hear from you.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or state as an individual with a disability.

Compensation

At RA, your base hourly rate serves as just one element of our comprehensive total rewards package. The rate range provided reflects the full scope of potential base compensation, but factors such as relevant experience, skills, and qualifications will play a crucial role in determining the final offer.

In addition to competitive base pay, we offer an extensive array of benefits designed to support your overall well-being. 

 Our offerings include:

  • Compressed four-daywork week of Monday-Thursdaycomprisedof10-hourshifts
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Medical and Dependent Care FSA
  • Employer paid life insurance 
  • Employer paid short-term and long-term disability coverage 
  • A 401(k)-retirement plan with company match
  • Generous paid time off and federal holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Optional Legal Resources, Critical Illness, and Accident insurance
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Staff events
  • Free electric car charging on-site (Headquarters location only)

We are dedicated to promoting a welcoming and rewarding workplace where all employees can thrive and feel valued. Your growth and success are important to us, and we strive to provide the resources and support necessary for you to achieve your personal and professional goals.

Reston Association is committed to maintaining a secure and transparent recruitment experience. As part of our standard hiring practices, all communication with applicants is conducted exclusively through official ADP email messages. Reston Association does not use text messaging, social media direct messages, or calls from unidentified numbers to schedule interviews or request personal information. If you receive a message that appears inconsistent with these guidelines, or if you would like to verify the legitimacy of any communication, please contact: Kaylin Bloom, Talent Acquisition Specialist, kbloom@reston.org