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Tree Planting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The organization plants thousands of trees each year grown at our own nursery; cares and maintains ... Summary The Tree Operations Crew Member performs a variety of field operations for all tree ...

Cypress Ground Crew lead

Frankford, DE ยท On-site

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

As a Ground Crew Lead, you will oversee and participate in essential landscaping and tree care tasks, including pruning, stump grinding, brush control, and tree planting. This role is ideal for ...

Balls, burlaps, plants, transplants, prunes and mulches trees and shrubs. Waters, fertilizes, and sprays trees and shrubs for insect and disease control. Installs tree wrap, stakes and braces. Fells ...

Tree Trimmer I/II

Redlands, CA ยท On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Plants and transplants trees; Removes fallen trees, dead limbs, and other debris resulting from storm damage and general conditions; Treats cut surfaces to protect trees from insects and tree ...

Tree Trimmer I/II

Redlands, CA ยท On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Plants and transplants trees; * Removes fallen trees, dead limbs, and other debris resulting from storm damage and general conditions; * Treats cut surfaces to protect trees from insects and tree ...

Training & development Work in all phases of landscaping including Tree planting, wall and patio construction and sprinkler installation. We are willing to train.

Forestry Crew Member

Norwalk, CT ยท On-site

$37K - $40K/yr

Crew members will perform a variety of field tasks including tree watering, mulching, pruning, planting, invasive species management, and general stewardship activities. The position also supports ...

Assists with Forestry Division operations including tree planting and tree nursery maintenance. Supervision is received from Lead Arborist. No supervision is exercised over other employees. Essential ...

Tree Maintenance Worker

Toledo, OH ยท On-site

$51K - $53K/yr

Balls, burlaps, plants, transplants, prunes and mulches trees and shrubs. * Waters, fertilizes, and sprays trees and shrubs for insect and disease control. * Installs tree wrap, stakes and braces.

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Tree Planting information

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How much do tree planting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree planting in the United States is $17.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 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 cities are hiring for Tree Planting jobs? Cities with the most Tree Planting job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tree Planting jobs? The most popular types of Tree Planting jobs are:
What states have the most Tree Planting jobs? States with the most job openings for Tree Planting jobs include:
Infographic showing various Tree Planting job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 57% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,665 per year, or $17.6 per hour.
Tree Operations Crew Member

Tree Operations Crew Member

CASEY TREES

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$25.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

About Casey Trees

In pursuit of its mission to restore, enhance and protect the tree canopy of the nationโ€™s capital, Casey Trees (CT) delivers a broad base of programs and services to the DC Metro area. The organization plants thousands of trees each year grown at our own nursery; cares and maintains those trees; conserves greenspace; conducts school and community-based youth STEM programming; and advocates for stronger policies and laws to preserve trees across the area. Casey Trees emphasizes innovative solutions and working with diverse partners to advance and promote tree canopy solutions that meet the needs of the communities that we serve.

Summary

The Tree Operations Crew Member performs a variety of field operations for all tree planting, care and related activities. This crew member should have a โ€œroll up your sleevesโ€ attitude and enjoy working outside throughout the DMV. Our crew members works with internal/external stakeholders, including other Casey Trees departments, community volunteers, etc. This is a full-time, year-round position with competitive benefits upon hire.

Compensation and Benefits:

$25.75/hour with full benefits including health, dental, vision, disability and life insurance as well as a flexible spending account (FSA), paid holidays, paid time off, and a retirement plan 403 (b).

Essential Functions

The following functions are representative for the Tree Ops Crew Member in its entirety - including but not limited to:

General Functions

  • Selects, delivers, plants, prunes, inventories, waters and cares for trees
  • Operates trucks, trailers, heavy machinery, hand and power tools
  • Conducts regular vehicle and tool maintenance, including daily vehicle safety inspections; seasonal vehicle upkeep, regular tool cleaning, inventory, etc., and; upkeeps the office landscape/grounds, as directed
  • Demonstrates professionalism and exceptional customer service, fostering positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders
  • Assists with tree procurement activities such as sourcing, invoicing, deliveries, inventory and reconciliation
  • Collaborates across the organization as required to execute programs and activities
  • Ensures adherence to organizational policies and procedures including, but not limited to: attendance, timeliness, conduct, professionalism, appearance, etc.
  • Promotes a safety culture by eliminating/controlling hazardous conditions resulting from human error, equipment and machine operations that may lead to human injury and/or property damage
  • Assists with logistical support during trainings, classes, workshops, tours, demonstrations, etc.
  • Performs other duties, as requested

Technical Skills

  • Maintains a general knowledge in planting, pruning and tree care techniques
  • Demonstrates an ability to use and repair small motorized equipment

Competencies

  • Field Work Orientation
  • Self-Motivation
  • Problem Solving
  • Safety Orientation
  • Volunteer Focus
  • Communication Proficiency



Working Conditions

The incumbent works in the office and in the field. Must be able to use equipment such as (not an exclusive list): desktop computer; smart phones; automobile; pickup truck with trailer; small motorized equipment; various hand tools such as shovels, rakes, saws, ladders, and pruning shears, etc.

Physical Demands:

  • Use of equipment and lifting to plant and maintain trees
  • Working outside year-round in the heat, cold and inclement weather
  • While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is frequently required to sit, talk and hear. The incumbent is constantly required to use hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The incumbent is occasionally required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl and walk. The incumbent is occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 60 pounds frequently and seldom up to 80 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus
  • The physical demands and work environment described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act

Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time, year-round position. The schedule will be determined based on planting seasons and volunteer demands. The incumbent must be able and willing to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours when needed.

Travel

Travel is primarily local to the Greater Washington, DC region including occasional travel to Casey Tree Farm in Berryville, VA. Some out of area travel and overnights may be expected.

Required Qualifications

  • Professional demeanor and the ability to interact and work with a variety of audiences
  • Ability to work both independently as well as in a team environment
  • Ability to manage multiple activities simultaneously

Preferred Qualifications

  • One year of experience working in landscaping, horticulture, forestry, urban forestry or related field
  • Associate degree in horticulture, landscaping, forestry, urban forestry or related field
  • Valid driverโ€™s license with clean driving record and ability to safely drive work vehicles including a pickup truck and trailer

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Casey Trees is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To apply:

Go to caseytrees.org/careers to apply online. Please reach out to Veva Milton, HR Generalist with questions at vmilton@caseytrees.org.