1

Tree Planting Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Arborist

Greenwood Village, CO · On-site

$27.59 - $36.62/hr

This role includes tree care, planting, climbing, pruning, removal, and pest management. You will also participate in snow and ice control operations, operate various types of construction and ...

Spray Technician

Brighton, CO · On-site

$22.39 - $27.11/hr

Repairs slight damage to lawns, fences, and walks caused by tree trimming. * Relays hand-signals ... Is exposed to all temperatures and weather; will be exposed to nature, i.e., irritating plants ...

Spray Technician

Denver, CO

$22.39 - $27.11/hr

Repairs slight damage to lawns, fences, and walks caused by tree trimming. * Relays hand-signals ... Is exposed to all temperatures and weather; will be exposed to nature, i.e., irritating plants ...

Repairs slight damage to lawns, fences, and walks caused by tree trimming. * Relays hand-signals ... Is exposed to all temperatures and weather; will be exposed to nature, i.e., irritating plants ...

Work Planner

Boulder, CO

$35.96 - $37.46/hr

... Tree Service in a professional manner. * Must be able to write, read, and comprehend written and verbal job instructions/information. * Ability to recognize poisonous plants and take proper safeguard ...

Work Planner

Boulder, CO · On-site

$35.96 - $37.46/hr

... Tree Service in a professional manner. * Must be able to write, read, and comprehend written and verbal job instructions/information. * Ability to recognize poisonous plants and take proper safeguard ...

... Tree Service in a professional manner. * Must be able to comprehend and/or read and write both written and verbal job instructions and safety information. * Ability to recognize poisonous plants and ...

... Tree Service in a professional manner. * Must be able to comprehend and/or read and write both written and verbal job instructions and safety information. * Ability to recognize poisonous plants and ...

Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

$35.36/hr

... Tree Service in a professional manner. * Must be able to comprehend and/or read and write both written and verbal job instructions and safety information. * Ability to recognize poisonous plants and ...

Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

$35.36/hr

... Tree Service in a professional manner. * Must be able to comprehend and/or read and write both written and verbal job instructions and safety information. * Ability to recognize poisonous plants and ...

50-301 Engineer II

Towaoc, CO · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

Whether planting a single tree or shaping an entire park, you'll see the tangible results of your effort every day. The Impact You'll Make As a Landscape Laborer, you'll be the hands and heart behind ...

Showing results 41-60

Tree Planting information

See Colorado salary details

$11

$18

$25

How much do tree planting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree planting in Colorado is $18.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is tree planting?

Tree planting is the process of transplanting tree seedlings, generally for forestry, land reclamation, or landscaping purposes. It involves preparing the land, selecting appropriate tree species, and planting them in a way that promotes healthy growth. Tree planting helps restore ecosystems, combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, and can provide economic and social benefits to communities. The work is often physically demanding and can be seasonal, depending on climate and planting goals.

What are tree planting jobs?

Tree planting jobs include a variety of positions related to planting, nurturing, and caring for trees. Most tree planting jobs do not focus exclusively on planting trees. Your duties may also include logging, trimming, or landscaping areas. Common roles include planting seedlings for horticulture, supporting reforestation efforts, or helping landscape a local park. Most tree planting jobs take place outdoors, but you can find a few jobs working with seeds and pots in factory-like settings to prepare them for shipment. Due to the long growing times, many tree planting jobs are seasonal positions. If you want to work with planting trees year-round, you may need to look for a management position.

What is the difference between Tree Planting vs Arborist?

AspectTree PlantingArborist
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required, but some may have basic horticulture knowledgeRequires certifications like ISA Certified Arborist
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, planting sites, nurseriesOutdoor, urban and rural trees, often consulting or maintenance
Industry UsageLandscaping companies, conservation projectsTree care, pruning, health assessments, consulting

Tree planting focuses on the physical act of planting trees, often with minimal certification, while arborists provide expert tree care, including pruning, health assessments, and consulting, requiring specialized certifications. Both roles work outdoors and are essential in forestry and landscaping industries, but arborists typically have more advanced training and responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by tree planters, and how can they be managed on the job?

Tree planting can be physically demanding, with challenges such as working in remote areas, variable weather conditions, and repetitive tasks that can lead to fatigue. To manage these challenges, it's important to maintain proper hydration, use correct lifting and planting techniques to avoid injury, and wear appropriate gear for protection against weather and terrain. Many crews foster a supportive team environment, encouraging frequent breaks and open communication to ensure everyone stays healthy and motivated throughout the planting season.

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

To thrive as a Tree Planter, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of silviculture and reforestation practices, usually gained through on-the-job training. Familiarity with GPS devices, planting tools, and safety equipment is often required. Strong teamwork, self-motivation, and resilience in various weather conditions are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure efficient, high-quality planting that supports forest regeneration and meets environmental standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Tree Planting jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Tree Planting jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Tree Planting jobs in Colorado? For Tree Planting jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tree Planting jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Tree Planting jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Tree Planting jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Tree Planting job openings:
Infographic showing various Tree Planting job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,553 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Urban & Community Forestry Program Specialist

Colorado State University

Denver, CO • On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Colorado State University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

484th of 615 rated colleges and universities


Job description


Position Summary:
Reporting directly to the Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) Program Manager, this position responsible for providing community forestry assistance and programs to field offices, partners and communities throughout the Front Range of Colorado integrated with the agency's broader program of work. The Front Range UCF Program Specialist is expected to demonstrate exceptional technical proficiency in urban forestry practices and community engagement.
Full Consideration Date: 8/25/2026
https://csfs.colostate.edu/
Essential Job Duties:
  • Facilitate the development and implementation of long-range plans and an annual work plan for UCF programs on the Front Range, in the Denver area and in the immediate area surrounding the CSU Spur campus.
  • Work alongside neighborhood, local, state, regional and federal partners in the delivery of UCF programs.
  • Collaborate on budget development for the UCF program, including new grant proposals and ongoing grants.
  • Monitor target accomplishments and ensure accomplishment reports are completed.
  • Support CSFS field staff working on UCF activities in the Front Range.
  • Serve as the lead subject matter expert for CSFS field staff and partners in planning and implementing UCF program activities (tree planting, inventory, canopy assessment, risk assessment, community meetings, outreach activities, etc.) on university, municipal and private lands throughout the Front Range.

Supervision:
  • There are no permanent employees assigned to this position for supervision. This position may supervise hourly employees on an as-needed basis.

Conditions of Employment:
  • Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires).
  • May require travel (may be overnight) and occasional irregular work hours and evening and weekend service.
  • May require field and office work, both independently and as part of a larger multi-functional division.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • A bachelor's degree or higher in forestry, natural resources, environmental sciences, landscape architecture or a related program of study.
  • Four years of professional forestry experience, with specific experience in urban and community forestry.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working with diverse organizations, community groups and nonprofits in developing urban and community forestry initiatives, programs and projects.
  • Experience working with disproportionately impacted communities or disadvantaged populations.
  • Experience successfully applying for and administering grants.
  • Experience preparing contracts and agreements for forest management work.
  • Experience organizing, developing and delivering public presentations, workshops, events, publications, and other informational and educational activities.
  • Experience writing, reviewing and implementing urban forest management plans.
  • Current International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist credential.
  • Excellent written communication skills.
  • Basic knowledge of western United States forestry.
  • Familiarity with spoken Spanish and ability to understand and communicate with Spanish speaking community members.

Salary Range
$65,000 - $70,000
Required Application Documents
To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.
Cover Letter, Resume/CV
Employee Benefits
Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
  • Review our detailed benefits information here.
  • Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
  • For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.
  • Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement
Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.
EEO
Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

What Colorado State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Colorado State University logo

About Colorado State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Colorado State University is one of the nation’s top public Tier 1 Research universities and an institution on the rise. Our Ram success is driven by an ambition to be excellent in all we do combined with an unparalleled location that is one of the fastest-growing and most vibrant areas in the country. CSU is a higher education destination for working and learning for faculty, staff, and students from across Colorado, the nation, and around the globe. CSU has produced record enrollment in the past decade, built on all-time highs in student diversity and student success, experienced record fundraising and research expenditures that keep hitting new highs year-after-year, and our faculty are known nationally and internationally for their groundbreaking research. Among other recognition for research and creative scholarship, CSU was recognized in 2022 as one of 10 top research institutions in the world contributing to solving the COVID pandemic. CSU is thriving, with a five-year average enrollment of more than 33,400 students. The record-setting 2022 incoming class of 5,517 students reflects 25% from diverse populations and 24% who were first in their families to attend college. CSU graduates find success with 85% securing a job related to their career plans within six months of graduation. More than nine out of 10 Rams would select CSU again, demonstrating the quality of the campus and learning environments.

Industry

Education

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fort Collins, CO, US

Year founded

1870

Social media