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Tree Planting Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

... tree and shrub health issues within a specific territory. A typical day may include: • Inspecting ... About You You are passionate about plants, eager to learn, and motivated to grow within the field ...

... tree and shrub health issues within a specific territory. A typical day may include: • Inspecting ... About You You are passionate about plants, eager to learn, and motivated to grow within the field ...

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Tree Planting information

See Indiana salary details

$10

$16

$22

How much do tree planting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree planting in Indiana is $16.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $18.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much money can you make growing trees?

Tree planting jobs typically pay between $10 and $20 per hour, with seasonal or contract positions sometimes offering higher wages. Experienced tree planters or those working for specialized organizations can earn more, especially with certifications or in regions with high demand for reforestation or landscaping projects.

How do I get paid to plant trees?

Tree planting jobs typically pay hourly or per project, with wages varying based on location, experience, and organization. Many positions are seasonal and may require physical fitness and knowledge of planting techniques; some organizations also offer training or certifications. Payment is usually processed through direct deposit or checks after each pay period.

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 10 20 30 rule for tree planting?

The 10-20-30 rule in tree planting suggests that trees should be planted at least 10 feet apart, with 20 feet of clearance from structures, and 30 feet from other trees to ensure healthy growth and reduce competition. This guideline helps tree planters, including those in forestry or landscaping, promote proper spacing for mature trees. Adhering to these distances can improve tree health and safety in planting projects.

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 much money can you make being a Tree Planter?

Tree planters typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, with some seasonal positions offering bonuses or higher pay based on productivity. Wages can vary depending on location, experience, and the company, and physical endurance and efficiency are important for maximizing earnings.

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 Indiana? The most popular types of Tree Planting jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Tree Planting jobs in Indiana? For Tree Planting jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tree Planting jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Tree Planting jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Tree Planting jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Tree Planting job openings:
Infographic showing various Tree Planting job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,889 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Seasonal Natural Resources Worker - Owen Putnam State Forest

Seasonal Natural Resources Worker - Owen Putnam State Forest

State of Indiana

Spencer, IN

$12.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


State Of Indiana rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 183 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 50 rated states


Job description

 Work for Indiana

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About Owen-Putnam State Forest:
Owen-Putman State Forest is a 1,140-acre forest of hardwood of rolling hills and sandstone bluffs. Multiple trails wind through the forest a cemetery, waterfalls, and 50-foot cliffs. It is home to deer, turkey, foxes, game birds, and various small mammals. Activities include camping, hiking, hunting, and nature watching."


Salary Statement: 

The hourly wage for seasonal positions varies, starting at $12.25/hour.  

A Day in the Life:

The Seasonal Natural Resources Workers perform duties related to the survey, biological monitoring, and/or control of property natural resources. Seasonal Natural Resources Worker positions and their essential functions are as follows:

  • Resource Management Techs: Assists with the control of invasive plant species natural area restoration trail maintenance, brush and tree removal, signage, timber marking and/or timber stand improvement based on the property.
  • Laborers: Work to maintain and repair property buildings, grounds, and facilities. Laborers perform various duties based on property needs. Possible duties may include landscaping, mowing, firewood processing, structure maintenance, sign creation, trail upkeep, carpentry, and plumbing, based on property needs.
  • Clerks: Perform a wide variety of tasks to support property staff. Duties may include inventory, stocking, reporting, budgeting, and assisting with other administrative duties.
  • Office Assistants: Answer inquiries about the property and provide quality customer service to the park visitors. This position also assists property management with operations and administrative functions. 
  • Entomology Workers (Taxonomists): sort through samples of exotic forest or tree pests of specific concern.  Survey samples are collected from high risk sites to determine locations of exotic insects and pathogens in Indiana.  Samples of concern are processed and forwarded to a certified taxonomist for further identification and classification.
  • Forest Worker: Assist in duties related to the survey, biological monitoring, and/or control of forestry resources. 
    • Nursery Workers: Collect, weigh, test, bail, and grade seedlings for quality and use.  This role also packages tree seedlings and fulfills customer orders.
  • Forestry Program Interns: Primarily conduct field inspections of forestlands and complete associated reports.  Duties may include assisting with forest inventories, timber marking, educational programs, and timber stand improvement.
  • Security Officers: Monitor the activities of visitors and report problems to property management or other authorities.  Security Officers patrol the property and enforce regulations in a courteous, but firm manner.  This role provides security to facilities, construction sites, and logging operations as needed, including late night visits to area prone to vandalism, disturbances, and illegal activities.
  • Gate Attendants (Ferdinand State Forest Only): Provide quality customer service at assigned property station. The main responsibilities of this position the collection of revenue from fees and permits, and cash/credit card handling duties.
What You'll Need for Success:
  • High school diploma, GED, or one (1) year of work experience. 
  • May be expected to work afternoons, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
  • May be required to wear a DNR-provided uniform. 
  • May be required to travel to different properties. 
  • May be required to have a valid driver’s license. 
  • May experience working with DOC work release crews.
  • May perform duties in a variety of different environments, including an office environment, field environment, rugged terrain, and various adverse weather conditions (extreme heat, cold, rain, snow, sleet, etc.). 
  • May work around potentially dangerous heavy equipment (e.g. tractors, disks, mowers, planters, etc.).
  • Some positions may require: 
    • Completion of some college coursework in wildlife management, natural resources, biology, ecology, forestry and/or related areas of study is required. 
    • Ability to understand and apply through on the job training and using previous, relevant experience basic biological principals, ecological variables and interactions, plant identification, herbicide application, invasive plant management techniques (of conservation biology, the management of forests, wetlands, and prairie habitats), and life histories of invasive plants.
    • Ability to lift equipment, tools, or materials up to 50lbs.
    • Ability to sustain periods of strenuous physical activity.
    • Ability to carry out assignments with general instruction and limited supervision.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:

This seasonal position does not offer benefits and is limited to 180 working days in an eleven (11) month continuous period  

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.


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