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Tree Pruner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Pittsburgh, PA

Tree Pruner

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$27.93/hr

The application must clearly show two ( 2 ) years of full-time, paid experience as a tree pruner-climber. (Less than full-time experience will be calculated on a pro-rated basis.) * EDUCATION ...

City of Pittsburgh

Tree Pruner

Pittsburgh, PA

$27.93/hr

The application must clearly show two (2) years of full-time, paid experience as a tree pruner-climber. (Less than full-time experience will be calculated on a pro-rated basis.) EDUCATION/TRAINING:

WATTS TREE EXPERTS LLC

Tree Climber

Frederick, MD

$24 - $32/hr

This role is responsible for performing pruning, trimming, and removal services using industry ... About Us Watts Tree Experts is a locally owned and operated tree care company built on ...

WATTS TREE EXPERTS LLC

Tree Climber

Frederick, MD

$24 - $32/hr

This role is responsible for performing pruning, trimming, and removal services using industry ... About Us Watts Tree Experts is a locally owned and operated tree care company built on ...

WATTS TREE EXPERTS LLC

Tree Climber

Frederick, MD · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

This role is responsible for performing pruning, trimming, and removal services using industry ... About Us Watts Tree Experts is a locally owned and operated tree care company built on ...

One Two Tree

Tree Climber - One Two Tree

Miami, FL · On-site

$20.25 - $28/hr

Perform tree pruning, thinning, reductions, removals, and deadwood removal according to industry standards. * Set up and operate rigging systems for the safe lowering of limbs and tree sections.

Shinto Landscaping

Tree Climbers

Boynton Beach, FL

$20 - $27.50/hr

Our Climbers are responsible for safely performing tree pruning, removals, cabling, bracing, and other arboricultural services using climbing techniques, aerial lifts, ropes, and rigging equipment.

Lush Lawn - Safari Tree

Tree Estimator

Waterford, MI

$660 - $3.5K/wk

The ideal candidate will be responsible for preparing bid estimates for pruning and cutting down trees, ensuring accurate and competitive pricing to support our tree care services. Responsibilities

Vensure Employer Services

Tree Crew Leader

Rockville, MD · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Position Summary Lead and perform professional tree care, pruning, removal, planting, and emergency response services while ensuring safety, quality, and customer satisfaction. Responsibilities

New

ARBOR MASTERS

Tree Crew Leader

Des Moines, IA

$33 - $43/hr

Tree Crew Leader/ Climber Earn between $70K and $90K per year, with the opportunity for quarterly ... Leading a 2-man pruning crew while completing pruning & removal projects * Ensuring all appropriate ...

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Tree Pruner information

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$12

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$35

How much do tree pruner jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree pruner in the United States is $24.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Tree Pruner vs Tree Trimmer?

AspectTree PrunerTree Trimmer
CertificationsTypically requires safety training, OSHA compliance, and sometimes certification in tree careSimilar certifications; safety training and OSHA compliance are common
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, in trees, often at heights, using climbing gear or liftsOutdoor, on the ground or at heights, focusing on shaping and maintaining trees
Employer & Industry UsageLandscaping companies, municipal parks, tree care servicesLandscaping firms, municipal parks, arboriculture services

Both Tree Pruners and Tree Trimmers work outdoors in similar environments and often share certifications. The main difference lies in their focus: Tree Pruners primarily remove dead or hazardous branches at heights, while Tree Trimmers focus on shaping and aesthetic trimming. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right professional for your tree care needs.

How much do you get paid for cutting down trees?

Tree pruners typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and whether they work for a company or as independent contractors. Some may also be paid by the job, especially for larger or more complex tree removal projects. Certifications in safety and climbing skills can influence pay rates.

What are some common safety challenges faced by tree pruners, and how are they addressed on the job?

Tree pruners often work at heights and use sharp tools, making safety a top concern. Common challenges include avoiding falls, preventing injuries from falling branches, and handling equipment safely. To address these, employers typically provide thorough safety training, require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets and harnesses, and enforce strict safety protocols. Team members often work in pairs or groups to spot each other and ensure that all safety measures are followed during each job.

What are tree pruners?

Tree pruners are professionals who specialize in trimming and cutting branches from trees to maintain their health, appearance, and safety. Their work involves removing dead or overgrown limbs, shaping trees for aesthetic purposes, and preventing potential hazards such as falling branches. Tree pruners use a variety of tools and must follow safety procedures to minimize risks to themselves and the property around them. This role often requires knowledge of tree species, proper pruning techniques, and sometimes climbing or working at heights.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tree Pruner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tree Pruner, you need knowledge of tree species, proper pruning techniques, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with chainsaws, pole pruners, climbing equipment, and safety certifications like OSHA training are commonly required. Physical stamina, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help ensure both personal safety and high-quality work. These skills are essential for maintaining tree health, preventing property damage, and ensuring safe, efficient job performance.

What is a professional tree pruner called?

A professional tree pruner is typically called an arborist or tree surgeon. These specialists are trained in tree care, pruning, and safety procedures, often holding certifications such as Certified Arborist from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).

How much do tree pruners make?

Tree pruners typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and whether they work for a landscaping company or as independent contractors. Experienced pruners with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, and some may receive benefits or overtime pay based on their schedule and employer policies.

How to become a tree pruner?

To become a tree pruner, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and gain experience through on-the-job training or apprenticeships. Knowledge of pruning techniques, safety procedures, and the use of tools like chainsaws and pruning shears is essential; some employers may require certification in tree care or safety standards. Physical fitness and the ability to work at heights are also important for this role.
More about Tree Pruner jobs
What states have the most Tree Pruner jobs? States with the most job openings for Tree Pruner jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Tree Pruner jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Tree Pruner jobs are:
Tree Pruner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tree Pruner job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 7% As Needed, 20% Full Time, 61% Contract, 3% Nights, and 7% Summer. Highlights an 23% Physical, 10% Hybrid, and 67% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,611 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
Tree Pruner

Tree Pruner

City of Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$27.93/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

City Of Pittsburgh rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

139th of 693 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Pittsburgh, PA
Job Type: CS Non-Competitive, Full Time
Job Number: 25-TPNZ-01
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 02/21/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: 04
POSITION SUMMARY
Provide professional tree care, under minimal supervision, on city right-of-ways, in parks, and on other city property.
Department: Public Works, Bureau of Operations
Posting Type: Announcement/Bid
Salary: $27.93 per hour.
Union: This position is included in the Pittsburgh Joint Collective Bargaining Committee and will be filled in accordance with the provisions of the Collective Bargaining Agreement
Union Bid Form: Not required. Your application for this position will serve as your union Bid Form.
Civil Service Classification: Non-Competitive
REQUIREMENTS
General Application Requirements:
You must submit or show proof of all of the following at the time of filing your application (unless otherwise indicated below) or your application will be disqualified. Disqualifications based on any of these General Application Requirements are not subject to a Civil Service appeal.
  • Applicants must submit a complete application including education, work experience, a resume (if applicable) and completed supplemental questions.
  • Applicants must become residents of the City of Pittsburgh prior to employment and must remain a resident throughout employment.
    • Click to view a map of City of Pittsburgh neighborhoods.
  • A current, valid Class C Pennsylvania Driver's License is required prior to appointment and must be maintained throughout employment. Written requests for accommodation based on the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act will be considered by the Department of Human Resources & Civil Service on an individual basis.

NOTE: The City of Pittsburgh, as a matter of policy, conducts pre-employment and promotional background investigations on all candidates being considered for positions. The background investigation includes but is not limited to criminal background, driver's license and City of Pittsburgh real estate tax payments. Candidates may be disqualified from consideration for employment based on the results of their background investigation (as it relates to the job for which the applicant is being considered).
Qualifying Requirements:
Your City of Pittsburgh application will be reviewed, and your work experience and education/training will be evaluated to determine if you meet the qualifying eligibility requirements listed below for this position. You will be sent an eligibility letter regarding your eligible/ineligible status.
  • WORK EXPERIENCE: The application must clearly show two (2) years of full-time, paid experience as a tree pruner-climber. (Less than full-time experience will be calculated on a pro-rated basis.)
  • EDUCATION/TRAINING: The application must clearly show a High School Diploma or GED Certification.
  • EQUIVALENCY: None permitted for this position.

CIVIL SERVICE EXAMINATIONS
If you meet the qualifying requirements listed above, you will be sent a letter of admission (when applicable) for the following examination(s). You must pass the written and/or performance examination(s) in order to have your name placed on the official Civil Service eligibility list for this position. Candidates who receive job offers must pass a medical examination (when applicable) prior to start date.
  • Written: Based on the knowledge/abilities listed in the Position Description section of this announcement.
  • Performance: The performance exam is based on the knowledge/abilities listed in the Job Description. To view the full job description, please click the link at the bottom of the Position Duties section of this announcement. The exam dates are not yet established and will be scheduled based on applicant volume and weather.
  • Medical: Required.

Click HERE to view and/or print the Candidate Preparation Guide which contains event descriptions.
The Pre-Test Demonstration and Civil Service Examination dates are yet to be determined and depend on applicant volume and weather conditions.
POSITION DUTIES
  • Performs tree care maintenance such as pruning, removal, planting, mulching, staking, fertilizing and watering.
  • Operates heavy equipment (e.g., aerial portion of the bucket truck, chipper truck, chipper, etc.) utilized to prune and remove trees.
  • Operates manual and motorized equipment (e.g., chain saws, power pruner, stump grinder, root pruner, hand tools, etc.) at ground level and at heights up to 70 ft.
  • Trims trees using climbing ropes and saddle.
  • Uses proper safety equipment; monitors working conditions, and reports problems to supervisor.
  • Interacts with other city departments and the public to accomplish work.
  • Provides feedback to supervisors to enhance operations.
  • Keeps accurate records of time spent and equipment used on each job.
  • May work evenings, weekends and holidays as required in response to emergencies (e.g. storms, tornadoes, floods, mudslides, etc.) related to public tree removal.
  • May work in harsh weather conditions (e.g., extreme hot or cold temperatures, rain, snow, etc.) with frequent exposure to environmental hazards (e.g., pollens, poison ivy, dust, etc).
  • Uses a variety of technological hardware (ie, computers, laptops, tablets, smart phones, GPS, cameras, etc.) and/or software (ie, email, Microsoft Office, Cartegraph, etc.) to maintain records and prepare accurate reports on work performed daily, weekly, monthly, or as assigned or required.
  • Completes written daily work sheets as required.
  • Performs other duties as assigned or required.

CLICK HERE to view the full job description including knowledge, skills, and abilities and working conditions for this position. Locate and click on the position title to view the complete job description.
Full-time City employees receive a comprehensive benefit package including:
  • Health, Dental and Vision Benefits
  • Pension
  • Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Vacation
  • Personal Days
(Benefits may be modified based on collective bargaining unit terms.)
01
The City of Pittsburgh welcomes all applicants, including those who would need to relocate to satisfy the Residency Requirement prior to starting this position. Please elaborate on your plans to relocate to Pittsburgh if you do not already live within the City of Pittsburgh municipality. If you already reside within the City of Pittsburgh, please write N/A.
02
Do you have a current, valid Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Operator's License (Class C - regular) or a current valid driver's license from another state or the U.S. Armed Forces?If you do not possess a current, valid PA Class C Driver's License: Are you able to obtain one prior to appointment if you are selected to fill this position?
  • N/A- I already possess the required driver's license.
  • YES, I AM able to obtain a PA Class C Driver's License prior to appointment if I am selected to fill this position.
  • NO, I am NOT able to obtain a PA Class C Driver's License prior to appointment if I am selected to fill this position.

03
Do you possess at least two (2) years of paid professional experience as a tree pruner-climber? This experience must include tying into and climbing trees up to 70 feet in height.
  • Yes
  • No

04
Did you remember to attach your complete resume with this application? If you did not, your application may be disqualified.
  • Yes
  • No

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