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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.

MOON VALLEY GROUP

Planting Crew Backup Driver

La Verne, 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.

New

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 ...

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 ...

Murrieta Hot Springs

Landscaper III

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Buy and maintain annual plants and flowers. * Keep all perennial flowers. * Clean the parking lots ... Palm tree trimming, boom lift experience a plus Benefits/Perks: * 401(k) * Health insurance

Murrieta Hot Springs

Landscaper III

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Buy and maintain annual plants and flowers. * Keep all perennial flowers. * Clean the parking lots ... Palm tree trimming, boom lift experience a plus Benefits/Perks: * 401(k) * Health insurance

Sun RV Resorts

Maintenance Technician

Banning, CA · On-site

$18/hr

Regularly treats for weeds, plants flowers/shrubs, spreads mulch, trims hedges, cuts and removes tree limbs damaged by adverse weather conditions, and performs other lawn care services as necessary.

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 Jul 11, 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.

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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,251 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Planting Crew Backup Driver

MOON VALLEY GROUP

Chino, CA • On-site

$16.90 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 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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