1

Tree Planting Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Is exposed to all temperatures and weather; will be exposed to nature, i.e., irritating plants ... Has a minimum of 3 months experience working on tree trimming or clearing crews and/or has ...

Is exposed to all temperatures and weather; will be exposed to nature, i.e., irritating plants ... Has a minimum of 3 months experience working on tree trimming or clearing crews and/or has ...

You'll perform a variety of tree care tasks, including pruning, planting, and general tree maintenance, while operating equipment and working as part of a team. Training is provided on our tree care ...

Landscape Crew

Attica, MI · On-site

$14 - $17.25/hr

Jobs will include light landscape work such as; planting small trees, lawn restorations, mulching, etc. Owen Tree Service offers competitive hourly pay, overtime, paid vacation, health care, dental ...

Landscape Crew

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$18/hr

Jobs will include light landscape work such as; planting small trees, lawn restorations, mulching, etc. Owen Tree Service offers competitive hourly pay, overtime, paid vacation, health care, dental ...

Jobs will include light landscape work such as; planting small trees, lawn restorations, mulching, etc. Owen Tree Service offers competitive hourly pay, overtime, paid vacation, health care, dental ...

Jobs will include light landscape work such as; planting small trees, lawn restorations, mulching, etc. Owen Tree Service offers competitive hourly pay, overtime, paid vacation, health care, dental ...

Wright Tree Service provides vegetation management, storm restoration, and work planning services ... Recognizes poisonous plants and uses proper safeguard against them. * Enforces safe work practices ...

Wright Tree Service provides vegetation management, storm restoration, and work planning services ... Recognizes poisonous plants and uses proper safeguard against them. * Enforces safe work practices ...

Groundworker

Ionia, MI

$14.50 - $18/hr

Is exposed to all temperatures and weather; will be exposed to nature, i.e., irritating plants ... Trained to perform tree and bucket rescue. * Applies herbicides and growth regulators to stumps and ...

Groundworker

Ionia, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

Is exposed to all temperatures and weather; will be exposed to nature, i.e., irritating plants ... Trained to perform tree and bucket rescue. * Applies herbicides and growth regulators to stumps and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Tree Planting information

See Michigan salary details

$9

$15

$20

How much do tree planting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree planting in Michigan is $15.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you get paid for planting trees?

Tree planting jobs are often paid positions, especially when working for environmental organizations, forestry companies, or government programs. Pay can vary based on experience, location, and whether the work is seasonal or ongoing, and some roles may require physical fitness and knowledge of planting techniques.

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 is a guideline for selecting tree species based on their mature height and spread: plant trees that will grow no taller than 10 feet in small spaces, 20 feet in medium spaces, and 30 feet in larger areas to ensure proper growth and safety. This rule helps landscapers and arborists choose appropriate trees for urban or residential environments, considering space and growth habits.

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 $1,000 and $3,000 per week during peak planting seasons, with pay often based on the number of trees planted or a daily rate. Experienced planters or those working in high-demand areas can earn higher wages, and some jobs offer bonuses or incentives for productivity.

How to become a tree planter in the US?

To become a tree planter, you typically need to be at least 18 years old, have physical stamina, and be able to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Many tree planting jobs are seasonal and may require training on planting techniques and safety protocols; some employers prefer candidates with a valid driver's license and the ability to work long hours in remote locations.

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 Michigan? The most popular types of Tree Planting jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Tree Planting jobs in Michigan? For Tree Planting jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tree Planting jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Tree Planting jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Tree Planting jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Tree Planting job openings:
Infographic showing various Tree Planting job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,957 per year, or $15.4 per hour.
Tree Trimmer

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Wright Tree Service rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 34 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

Title: Trimmer/Climber Trainee
Type: Full-Time/Non-Exempt
Reports to: Foreperson/General Foreperson
Essential Functions:
  • Trims and/or removes trees by climbing with the aid of a ladder, safety belt, climbing line, powered trimmer lift truck, or works from the ground using saws/pruners. Will cut branches or trunk sections and drops or lowers them to the ground with lines.
  • Uses appropriate tools, will fell trees or trimmed trunks and split them into manageable pieces.
  • Sprays stumps and brush with hand-spraying equipment to prevent further growth.
  • Loads and unloads trucks with logs, stumps, brush, and debris and/or feeds brush into a wood chipper.
  • Repairs slight damage to lawns, fences, and walks caused by tree trimming.
  • Relays hand-signals, directs traffic, drives and operates trucks and equipment as assigned, and keeps trucks and work area clear and orderly.
  • Trains new employees on proper procedures.
  • Safeguards employees and public from hazards in and around work area. Cooperates with customer, police, and fire departments when blocking street or driveways. Sets up barriers, warning signs, flags, etc. to protect employees as well as the public. Trained to perform tree and bucket rescue.
  • Assumes responsibility for the inspection and proper working conditions of tools, trucks, and other work equipment. Requests repair or replacement of equipment when necessary.
  • Works around hazardous equipment and in close proximity to energized power lines.
  • Works around excessive noise from machines, chainsaws, wood chipper and must wear proper personal protective equipment.
  • Is exposed to all temperatures and weather; will be exposed to nature, i.e., irritating plants, biting or stinging insects, dust, etc.
  • May work on rough terrain.
  • Helps enforce on-the-job safety practices for crew members.
  • Services truck, chipper and equipment, maintaining them in a neat, clean, and specified mechanical order. Reports the need for equipment and truck maintenance to crew lead.
  • Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

Minimum Requirements:
  • Has a minimum of 3 months experience working on tree trimming or clearing crews and/or has successfully completed applicable performance reviews.
  • Enforces on-the-job safety practices.
  • Must be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.
  • Needs to be able to enter and exit a vehicle numerous times per day.
  • Must be able to withstand exposure to all kinds of weather while completing work tasks such as rain, heat, sun, cold, snow.
  • Must be able to write, read, and comprehend written and verbal job instructions/information.
  • Must be able to communicate with others and represent Wright Tree Service in a professional manner.
  • Possess the ability to lift, move, and maneuver up to 50 pounds on an infrequent basis and up to 30 pounds on a frequent basis.
  • Ability to work long hours and overtime during emergencies (including holidays, weekends, storm work) and will be subject to call-out work.
  • Ability to operate and service all required tools and equipment.
  • Has a valid driver's license (dependent on Division and utility/contract requirements) and be able to pass a pre-employment drug test.
  • Maintains a herbicide applicator or operators certification and license as required by Wright Tree Service and local, state, and federal law.
  • Must have valid First-Aid and CPR cards.
  • Must complete and pass a Climber Trainee Performance Review.

Wright Tree Service employment opportunities to all employees and 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.
https://www.wrighttree.com/privacy-policy/

What Wright Tree Service employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom