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Tree Planting Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Groundperson - Union

Livonia, NY · On-site

$19.07 - $23.15/hr

... plants, biting, or stinging insects, dust, etc. * Works on unlevel ground. * Works around falling limbs with protection. About Us: As a full-service utility contractor Asplundh performs tree pruning ...

... plants, biting, or stinging insects, dust, etc. * Works on unlevel ground. * Works around falling limbs with protection. About Us: As a full-service utility contractor Asplundh performs tree pruning ...

Proficient in the identification of poisonous plants. * Proficiency in electrical circuit basics and interpreting circuit maps. * Advanced in tree ascent/descent using ropes and a safety saddle, and ...

Planting trees, shrubs and flowers. * Weeding and edging mulch beds. * String trimming and push ... Tree and hedge trimming. * Understand MSDS sheets and safe work practices. * Comply with OSHA, NYS ...

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Tree Planting information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do tree planting jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree planting in Rochester, NY is $17.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.99 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 Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Tree Planting jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What are popular job titles related to Tree Planting jobs in Rochester, NY?

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

What job categories do people searching Tree Planting jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Tree Planting jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Tree Planting jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Tree Planting job openings:

Infographic showing various Tree Planting job openings in Rochester, NY as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,176 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Bucket Operator/Trimmer Union CDL Required Region 32

Brockport, NY

Asplundh Tree Expert, LLC
Personal Services • 10K+ employees

$27.80 - $31.44/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate an aerial lift device (bucket truck) to reach and remove branches interfering with electric lines.

  • Coordinate work activities, obtain permissions, and communicate with property owners and customers regarding tree trimming or removal.

  • Operate and service equipment such as gasoline, hydraulic tools, power saws, buckets, and chippers, and perform tree and bucket rescue.


Asplundh Tree Expert rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 247 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Title: Bucket Operator (CDL Required)

This role is responsible for assisting with the clearing & removal of trees along electrical power lines and right-of-ways. A Bucket Operator operates an aerial lift device (bucket truck) to reach branches interfering with electric lines.

 Job Type: Full-Time +, Non-Exempt

Pay: $27.80 to $31.44 per hour

Benefits:
  • Available Benefit options vary based on tenure, position, and work location. 
Essential Functions & Responsibilities:
  • Plans, assigns, directs, checks, and coordinates work.
  • Obtains written or oral permission from property owners to trim or remove trees or perform other work on the property. Arrange with the customer or property owner to obtain access, advise of interruption, explain work to be done, etc.
  • Promotes and maintains good customer and public relations through the effective accomplishment of assigned work and the appropriate behavior of employees on the crew.
  • Cooperates with customers, police, and fire departments when blocking streets or driveways.
  • Safeguards employees and the public from hazards in and around the work area.
  • Sets up barriers, warning signs, flags, markers, etc. to protect employees and the public.
  • Responsible for quality and quantity of production and for following safe practices and rules while clearing and trimming trees and brush away from utility lines.
  • Operates and services equipment, such as gasoline, hydraulic tools, power saws, power winches, buckets, chippers, and sprayers.
  • Operates a Bucket near energized lines to remove branches and tree material.
  • Performs tree and bucket rescue.
  • Uses hand tools, such as axes, hand-lines, saws, block and tackle, pruners, etc.
  • Cleans up and disposes of all debris.
  • Sprays brush and stumps, making proper and selective application of herbicides.
  • Trains new personnel.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be familiar with the electrical hazards.
  • Possesses working knowledge and can identify tree and shrub species.
  • Work demands physical energy, twisting, some lifting ability, and hand-to-eye coordination.
  • Must be willing to join the local union and pay union dues.
Education & Experience:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Entry-level position, no experience required.
  • Previous experience is a plus.
Pre-Screen:
  • Upon offer, employees may be required to subject and pass a pre-employment drug screen, background, and/or MVR check.
License & Certifications:
  • A valid Commercial Driver's license (CDL) is required.
Physical Requirements:
  • RARE (less than 10%): Sitting, Kneeling, Crawling, Color Vision, Climbing Stairs
  • OCCASIONAL (up to 33%): Stooping, Squatting, Climbing On/Off Truck, Climbing Ladders, Pushing, Reading, Lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • FREQUENT (up to 66%): Carrying, Pulling, Balancing, body-twisting, Hearing/Speech Range, Lifting, Lifting up to 10 lbs., Manual Dexterity, Speaking Clearly, Walking
  • CONTINUOUS (up to 100%): Standing, Sense of Touch, Gripping, Seeing, Reaching, range-of-motion, Depth Perception, Lifting over 10 lbs. to 50 lbs., Climbing
Safety:

Due to the inherently dangerous nature of the industry and requirements to work with or around hazardous equipment, employees must have sufficient eyesight to judge distance/coordination of equipment and tools, be able to maintain attention and concentration for extended periods, be able to withstand exposure to all kinds of weather while completing work assignments, be able to wear personal protective equipment as necessary, be able to enter and exit a vehicle numerous times a day, have the endurance necessary to traverse various terrain, be capable of performing job duties throughout a standard 8- or 10-hour day, be able to communicate with others, read, write, and comprehend written/verbal job instructions and information, and communicate and handle conflict professionally.

  • Works in all temperatures and will be exposed to nature i.e., irritating plants and biting or stinging insects.
  • Works near energized parts or equipment.
  • Works in traffic.
  • Works around excessive noise from machines, jackhammers, gas drills, and other equipment with proper hearing protection.
  • Exposed to hazards of working near power equipment, traffic, high voltage wires, and falling limbs.

Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-verify all newly hired employees. 


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