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Tree Pruner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Perform intermediate tree care operations such as pruning and limb removal on the ground and in small to large-sized trees (up to 100 feet in height) * Access a tree safely according to company ...

tree climber

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

Perform intermediate tree care operations such as pruning and limb removal on the ground and in small to large-sized trees (up to 100 feet in height) * Access a tree safely according to company ...

Tree Climber

Upland, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

Perform basic tree care operations such as pruning and limb removal on the ground and in small to medium sized trees (up to 60 feet in height) * Access a tree safely according to company protocols ...

Tree Care- Climber

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Perform basic tree care operations such as pruning and limb removal on the ground and in small to medium sized trees (up to 60 feet in height) * Access a tree safely according to company protocols ...

Tree Climber

Upland, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $30/hr

Perform basic tree care operations such as pruning and limb removal on the ground and in small to medium sized trees (up to 60 feet in height) * Access a tree safely according to company protocols ...

Tree Climber

San Fernando, CA · On-site

$21.75 - $30/hr

Perform basic tree care operations such as pruning and limb removal on the ground and in small to medium sized trees (up to 60 feet in height) * Access a tree safely according to company protocols ...

Tree Climber

San Fernando, CA

$21.75 - $30/hr

Perform basic tree care operations such as pruning and limb removal on the ground and in small to medium sized trees (up to 60 feet in height) * Access a tree safely according to company protocols ...

Perform basic tree care operations such as pruning and limb removal on the ground and in small to medium sized trees (up to 60 feet in height) * Access a tree safely according to company protocols ...

This role involves hands-on work in tree climbing, pruning, removals, and health assessments, while also providing leadership and guidance to crew members and serving as a key point of contact for ...

Tree Care Specialist

Gilroy, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

This position is ideal for someone with hands-on climbing, pruning and removal expertise, combined with a passion for customer education and care. Key Duties and Responsibilities * Conduct tree ...

Showing results 41-60

Tree Pruner information

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.

What safety challenges do tree pruners face, and how are they addressed?

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.

How do you 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. Skills in climbing, using pruning tools, and knowledge of safety procedures are essential, and some employers may require certification in tree care or safety standards.

What is a tree pruner?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a tree pruner?

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.

How much money can you make trimming trees?

Tree pruners typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and whether they work for a company or as independent contractors. Skilled workers with certifications and the ability to operate climbing gear or bucket trucks may earn higher wages.
What are popular job titles related to Tree Pruner jobs in California? For Tree Pruner jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Tree Pruner job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Apprentice Climber 1

The Davey Tree Expert Company

Arroyo Grande, CA

$22.25 - $30.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Davey Tree rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Davey Tree

Based on 101 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6.7

Company rating compared to similar companies: 6.7 out of 10

Gardening and landscaping average

Based on 1,042 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Company: Davey Tree Surgery Co.  
Locations: Arroyo Grande, CA  
Additional Locations: N/A 
Work Site: On Site   
Req ID: 227133 

Job Duties

What You’ll Do:  

  • Learn how to climb trees. (Yes, we will pay you to do that.) Davey offers both DdRT/MRS and SRT/SRS climbing systems 
  • Perform all aspects of tree pruning and removal services safely and skillfully for major electric utility providers.  Including but not limited to:   
  • Pruning treetops, repairing damaged trees by trimming or removal 
  • Removing broken limbs from utility lines, roofs, and other objects 
  • Tree identification and pruning to industry guidelines 
  • Properly maintain, prepare and operate all tools and equipment including chainsaws, chippers, aerial lifts and more.   
  • Operate as an active crew member with supporting ground crew and foreman.  
  • How high you grow depends on you!  
Qualifications

What We’re Seeking:  

  • Love of the outdoors  
  • Ability to complete the Davey Tree Trimmer Orientation Program upon hire  
  • Ability to complete the Davey Tree First Aid, CPR and defensive driving course upon hire    
  • Required: valid driver’s license 
  • Preferred: Commercial Driver’s License-Class A or B with Airbrake Endorsement 
  • Preferred: line clearance experience or other related tree work 
  • Preferred: relevant pesticide and related licenses and certificates, if required by state law  
  • Preferred: ISA Certified Arborist®, ISA Certified Tree Worker®, and/or TCIA Certified Tree Care Safety Professional® 
  • Preferably with a full or partial PG&E assessment pass.
Additional Information

What We Offer: * 

  • Progressive advancement in job classification and wage 
  • Benefits through union agreement including health insurance and pension 
  • Opportunity to travel  
  • Opportunity for overtime work 
  • All job specific equipment and safety gear provided 
  • Employee-owned company and discounted stock purchase options 
  • Employee referral bonus program 
  • Scholarship program for children of employees 
  • Charitable matching gift program 

*All listed benefits available to eligible employees 

Company Overview

Invest in your future. Join one of the largest employee-owned companies in the nation!  Davey has a unique culture that focuses on the open exchanging of ideas, community partnership, a commitment to safety, and delivering unrivaled client service while acting as industry leaders in horticultural and environmental services.  

We are currently looking to add a dynamic utility apprentice climber to our passionate team of utility line clearance professionals. Your office is outdoors, and you get a new view every day! 

Divisional Overview

The Davey Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected class, including race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, marital or familial status, disability, status as a protected veteran, status as an Aboriginal or Indigenous person, or other classification protected by law.

The Davey Tree Surgery Company is based in Livermore, California, and provides a full range of utility tree care and pole test and treat services. The Davey Tree Expert Company provides research-driven tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental consulting for residential, utility, commercial and environmental partners in the U.S. and Canada. We care about our clients, each other and the world around us. We offer the resources, size and stability of a big company while maintaining the culture, entrepreneurial spirit and feel of a small one. We invest in our employees by offering industry-leading training, technology and benefits that lead to a rewarding and safe work experience at all levels. Wherever you want to grow your career, there’s a place for you at Davey. To learn more, visit Davey.com.

Accommodations: If requested by employee or otherwise as required by law, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

If you need assistance at any time, please contact us at 1-877-411-7601 or at SurgeryJobs@davey.com.

Employment Type: Permanent 
Job Type: Full Time 
Travel Expectations: Up to 25%


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