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Tree Planting Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

MOON VALLEY GROUP

Planting Crew Backup Driver

Chino, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $28/hr

The Planting Crew Backup Driver at Moon Valley Nurseries is a hands-on member of the planting team responsible for performing tree and plant installations while supporting daily field operations.

MSA Gardens

Resident Assistant

Pomona, CA · On-site

$22.20/hr

The 70 residents who live in the The Oak Tree Lodge enjoy life with the attentive personalize ... plants as needed. * Attend to cleaning needs of residents; empty trash and do laundry. * Attend ...

SPSV ENTERTAINMENT LLC

Groundskeeper

Skyforest, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Water plants, flowers, and landscaped areas as needed. * Trim shrubs, pull weeds, rake, mulch, and prune grounds regularly * Cut and remove tree limbs that pose safety risks to guests or employees.

Skypark at Santa's Village

Groundskeeper

Skyforest, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Water plants, flowers, and landscaped areas as needed. * Trim shrubs, pull weeds, rake, mulch, and prune grounds regularly * Cut and remove tree limbs that pose safety risks to guests or employees.

MSA Gardens

Life Enrichment Program Assistant

Pomona, CA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Attend mandatory meetings. Assist with the care of any Villa plants and environment. * Perform other duties as assigned by Life Enrichment Coordinator. Villa involvement in Oak Tree Lodge events and ...

MSA Gardens

Program Assistant

Pomona, CA · On-site

$22.20/hr

... indoor plants and activity areas. * Attend department meetings, staff meetings, and mandatory training sessions. * Follow all Mt. San Antonio Gardens and Oak Tree Lodge policies, procedures, and ...

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All JobsTree Planting JobsTree Planting Jobs in Riverside, CA

Tree Planting information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$18

$25

How much do tree planting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree planting in Riverside, CA is $18.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $20.05 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.
More about Tree Planting jobs

What are popular job titles related to Tree Planting jobs in Riverside, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Tree Planting jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Tree Planting jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Tree Planting jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Tree Planting job openings:

Tree Planting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tree Planting job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,251 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Planting Crew Backup Driver

Moon Valley Nurseries

Chino, CA

$16.90 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

The Planting Crew Backup Driver at Moon Valley Nurseries is a hands-on member of the planting team responsible for performing tree and plant installations while supporting daily field operations. This role works alongside the Planting Crew to complete landscape installations according to company standards and customer expectations.

In addition to performing standard planting crew duties, this position serves as a designated backup driver when needed to support delivery and installation operations. The Planting Crew Backup Driver may operate company vehicles and transport crew members, trees, and equipment when primary drivers are unavailable or additional driving support is required.

This position is primarily a field labor role and does not function as a supervisory or management position.

 Key Duties and Responsibilities                                                                                                                                                           

Planting Crew Responsibilities (Primary Role)

  • Install trees, shrubs, and other plant materials according to landscape plans and company standards.
  • Ensure proper planting depth, spacing, fertilization, and alignment to promote plant health and longevity.
  • Assist with digging, planting, staking, backfilling, and job site clean-up.
  • Load and unload trees, plants, tools, and materials safely and efficiently.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of work areas, tools, and equipment.
  • Follow all company safety procedures and PPE requirements including gloves, safety glasses, and protective gear.
  • Recognize and follow Blue Stake / 811 utility markings to prevent underground utility damage.
  • Work collaboratively with crew members to complete installations efficiently and on schedule.
  • Maintain a professional appearance and represent the company positively on customer job sites.

Crew Support Responsibilities

  • Assist the Planting Crew Manager or Driver in preparing materials and equipment before leaving the nursery.
  • Support daily workflow by helping maintain productivity and job site efficiency.
  • Assist in demonstrating proper planting techniques and safe work practices when needed.
  • Help ensure tools, materials, and equipment are properly stored and maintained.

Backup Driver Responsibilities (As Needed)

  • Operate company trucks, including larger delivery vehicles, when assigned.
  • Transport crew members, plant material, and equipment safely to and from job sites.
  • Complete pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections.
  • Ensure proper loading, securement, and weight distribution of plant material and equipment.
  • Maintain vehicle cleanliness and report mechanical concerns or safety issues.
Qualifications: Knowledge, Skills & Abilities                                                                                                                    
  • Previous landscaping, horticulture, planting, or outdoor labor experience preferred.
  • Valid driver’s license with acceptable Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) required.
  • Ability to operate company vehicles when assigned; experience with larger trucks preferred.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work in various weather conditions.
  • Ability to safely operate hand tools and power equipment.
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills.
  • Ability to follow instructions and adhere to safety procedures.
  • Flexibility to work weekends and varying schedules based on business needs.
 
Education                                                                                                                                                                                                  

Highschool Diploma or equivalent

 Physical requirements/Working Conditions                                                                                                                                    

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. This position is very active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, and climbing all day. The employee must frequently lift and/or move items over 75 pounds. Able to work outdoors for extended periods of time in possibly extreme conditions, including rain, heat, sun, and wind.

 OTHER                                                                                                                                                                                                       

Subject to MVR and criminal background check (In accordance with applicable fair chance laws, rules, and regulations)

 About Us                                                                                                                                                                                                  

Moon Valley Nurseries is the largest grower of box trees and palms in North America, and is an industry leader and high growth company that offers competitive salaries with exceptional employee benefits including medical insurance, 401(k), holidays, and PTO to all eligible employees. We are an equal employment opportunity employer. We are a drug free workplace.

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