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Tree Planting Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Unloading tree and shrub trucks. * Setting up the Nursery yard. * Unhealing the trees and shrubs that were put away for the winter. * Planting purchases made by retail customers. * Leading a planting ...

Strategic Pricing Manager

Rockford, IL ยท On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Through initiatives like our Green Stock Program and Tree Planting Program, we are reducing waste, extending product lifecycles, and driving meaningful environmental impact. At Waldom, we live our ...

GROUNDSMAN

Orland Park, IL ยท On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Crystal Tree Golf & Country Club is seeking a reliable, detail-oriented, and motivated Groundsman ... Carry out seasonal landscaping duties including planting, mulching, aeration, and leaf removal.

... 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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Tree Planting information

See Illinois salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do tree planting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree planting in Illinois is $17.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.65 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 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 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.

How hard is it to get a job as a tree planting?

Getting a job as a tree planter typically requires physical stamina, the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, and sometimes prior experience or training. Many positions are seasonal and may not require formal education, but good teamwork and reliability are valued by employers.

How much do people get paid to plant trees?

Tree planting jobs typically pay between $10 and $20 per hour, depending on the location, experience, and organization. Some positions may offer a flat rate per tree planted or seasonal wages, especially for large-scale reforestation projects or conservation efforts.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tree Planting jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Tree Planting jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Tree Planting jobs in Illinois?

For Tree Planting jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tree Planting jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Tree Planting jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Tree Planting jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Tree Planting job openings:

Infographic showing various Tree Planting job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,529 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Park Maintenance - Seasonal Worker 2026

Aurora, IL โ€ข On-site

$17.29 - $20.64/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

The City of Aurora is accepting applications for seasonal job positions for the Phillips Park Maintenance. Positions are available from approximately March through November.
Park Maintenance staff are responsible for providing exceptional conditions for the visitors and patrons by preparing & providing daily maintenance at the City owned parks. This position requires working early morning hours and working outdoors in inclement or extreme weather at times shifts. May require working evenings and weekends.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Operate mowers & handheld trimmers to maintain turf areas of the parks
  • Daily set up of baseball & softball fields
  • Daily cleanup & garbage collection of high-profile park areas.
  • Assisting on tree crews with chipping of branches and cleaning of debris
  • Routine maintenance of park sites by picking up strewn litter, branches, and other misc. debris.
  • Operate equipment to maintain fence lines, tree rings, curbs, and walkways free of weeds & overgrown grass
  • Assist with landscape bed and tree maintenance; mulching, planting, weeding, trimming.
  • Assist in performing agronomic practices of turf restoration & tree planting
  • Shovel sand, mulch, soil, and other material as directed
  • Operate equipment to clear debris such as grass clippings and leaves from walking paths & walkways
  • Maintain a clean and organized work environment
  • Any additional duties as assigned

Requirements:
  • Position is subject to modified/flexible work schedule during high volume work periods including weekends and evenings
  • Ability to maneuver carts safely and efficiently.
  • Ability to understand and carry out instructions to perform tasks.
  • Ability to operate equipment safely to perform tasks.
  • Ability to complete work goals while minimal disturbance to patrons
  • Ability to work independently without constant supervision.
  • Ability to work in a fast pace environment.
  • Physical fitness

Must be able to pass a physical, drug screen, and background investigation.
The hourly wage is $17.29 - $20.64/hour, depending on qualifications.
Seasonal employees may receive preference in consideration for potential promotional opportunities within the City.
Applications should be submitted online.
*Applicants may be contacted regarding their interest in seasonal positions in other Divisions in the City.
*Applicants will only be contacted if selected to move forward in the hiring process.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.