1

Tree Removal Jobs in Columbus, GA (NOW HIRING)

Tree Removal information

See Columbus, GA salary details

$9

$15

$21

How much do tree removal jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree removal in Columbus, GA is $15.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $17.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is tree removal?

Tree removal is the process of safely cutting down and removing a tree from a specific location. This service is often necessary when a tree is dead, diseased, posing a safety hazard, or interfering with property structures. Professional tree removal involves assessing the tree and surrounding area, using specialized equipment, and ensuring the safe disposal of the tree and debris. It is important to hire certified arborists or licensed tree removal companies to ensure the job is done safely and in compliance with local regulations.

What are tree removal jobs?

Tree removal jobs focus on using tools to remove designated trees, branches, and stumps as necessary from various areas. In this role, you may use equipment to climb trees, use tools like a chainsaw to trim branches, or use a wood chipper to break down wooden waste and convert it into another product. In some cases, you may also help diagnose diseases in trees, remove diseased limbs or rotted wood, or travel off-road to reach specific job sites. Some tree removal companies grind stumps down to ground level rather than fully removing them. All tree removal jobs entail managing the safety of the work site.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tree removal specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tree Removal Specialist, you need knowledge of arboriculture, physical fitness, and experience with safe tree cutting techniques, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant training. Familiarity with chainsaws, ropes, rigging systems, wood chippers, and safety certifications like OSHA or ISA credentials is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a team are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and effective removal of trees while minimizing risks to people and property.

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

Tree removal professionals often encounter safety challenges such as working at heights, managing heavy equipment, and dealing with unpredictable tree falls. To address these risks, teams follow strict safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), thorough site assessments, and clear communication among crew members. Regular training in equipment operation and emergency procedures is also standard practice, ensuring that each team member knows how to respond to potential hazards effectively. Maintaining a strong safety culture is essential for both individual well-being and successful project completion.

What is the difference between Tree Removal vs Tree Trimming?

AspectTree RemovalTree Trimming
PurposeRemove entire trees due to hazards, disease, or developmentPrune and shape trees to promote health and aesthetics
CredentialsCertified Arborist or Tree Care SpecialistCertified Arborist or Tree Care Specialist
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, often hazardous, near structures or power linesOutdoor, focused on specific branches or canopy
Tools UsedChainsaws, rigging equipmentPruning shears, saws, pole pruners

Tree Removal and Tree Trimming both require similar certifications and are performed outdoors. However, Tree Removal involves completely removing a tree, often due to safety concerns, while Tree Trimming focuses on maintaining and enhancing the tree's health and appearance through selective pruning.

How much money do tree removal workers make?

Tree removal workers typically earn an average hourly wage of around $15 to $25, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Earnings can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the job, and workers often operate chainsaws and other equipment in outdoor environments.

What job categories do people searching Tree Removal jobs in Columbus, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Tree Removal jobs in Columbus, GA are:

What cities near Columbus, GA are hiring for Tree Removal jobs?

Cities near Columbus, GA with the most Tree Removal job openings:

Infographic showing various Tree Removal job openings in Columbus, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,620 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Journeyman Tree Trimmer

Townsend Tree Service

Phenix City, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Townsend Tree Service rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 36 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title:
Journeyman Tree Trimmer
Division:
The Townsend Company, LLC
Function:
AZU – Manual/Unskilled Labor
Reports To:
Manager
Discipline:
AZU000 – Manual/Unskilled Labor Generalist
Pay Type:
Hourly
Career Band:
(W) -Production/Manual Labor
Job Type:
Non-Exempt
EEO Group:
Laborers and Helpers
Effective:
6/26/2026
Position Summary
While providing supervision, a Journeyman Tree Trimmer maintains trees for public safety. This position provides tree trimming for assigned jobs by pruning, cutting, removing, and caring for trees. A Journeyman Tree Trimmer may be exposed to hazards of working near traffic, falling limbs, and power lines making attention to detail and safety guidelines critical. A Journeyman Tree Trimmer provides on-the-job training, specific day-to-day directions, and crew supervision. This position is a top-level class in the Tree Trimmer series and serves as Lead Trimmer in the Foreperson or General Foreperson's absence.​
Key Responsibilities
Essential Functions
Tree Trimming amp; Removal Operations
• Perform tree pruning, trimming, topping, reshaping, and removal activities
• Assess tree condition, identify tree species, and evaluate tree failure risk
• Demonstrate proper pruning techniques and understanding of tree biology
• Perform precision tree felling and safe chainsaw operation
• Conduct tree climbing operations using approved climbing techniques and equipment
• Remove broken limbs from utility wires using extension poles and specialized equipment
• Cable, brace, tie, bolt, stake, and guide trees and branches to provide structural support
• Inspect trees for disease, pest infestations, and other health concerns
• Spray trees to treat disease or pest issues, including mixing chemicals and calibrating spray equipment
Equipment Operation amp; Maintenance
• Operate and maintain tree trimming equipment, including aerial lifts, trucks, chainsaws, pole pruners, root pruners, stump grinders, and brush chippers
• Perform brush chipping and stump grinding operations
• Use climbing hooks, belts, ropes, ladders, and related equipment to access and work safely in trees
• Clean, sharpen, lubricate, and maintain tools and equipment
• Properly maintain equipment used around energized power lines
• Operate shredding and chipping equipment and safely feed limbs and brush into machinery
Site Cleanup amp; Traffic Control
• Clear job sites, streets, and grounds of woody and herbaceous materials, including stumps, fallen trees, and limbs
• Collect and pile debris using shovels, rakes, and other tools
• Load debris onto trucks and transport materials for disposal
• Perform traffic control activities to protect crew members, pedestrians, and motorists in work zones
• Hoist tools and equipment to tree workers and lower branches using ropes, blocks, and tackle systems
Leadership amp; Training
• Provide day-to-day direction and supervision to crew members
• Deliver on-the-job training to trimmers and ground personnel
• Demonstrate proper tree work techniques, safety procedures, and equipment operation
• Serve as Lead Trimmer in the absence of the Foreperson or General Foreperson
• Promote compliance with company safety policies and industry best practices
  • Duties may or may not be subject to change
Qualifications
Education and Experience
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
Skills and Competencies
  • Excellent communication and people skills
  • Meet all physical requirements of the position.
  • Pass all drug and alcohol screens as required by Company policy and, if applicable, required by DOT regulations.
  • 18 years of age or older, or 21 if CDL is required.
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States.
  • Extensive knowledge of tree trimming, pruning, climbing, and removal techniques
  • Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions associated with tree work
  • Ability to identify tree species and assess tree conditions
  • Proficiency in tree groundwork, pruning, and removal operations
  • Ability to safely operate chainsaws, chippers, stump grinders, aerial lifts, and related equipment
  • Knowledge of lowering techniques, saw maintenance, and rigging devices used in tree work
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
  • Ability to train and mentor crew members

This role is based in an office environment with occasional remote work flexibility. The position may require
limited travel.
This job description is not intended to provide an exhaustive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities required for this position. The Townsend Company and its family of companies reserve the right to modify job responsibilities, duties, or schedules as needed to meet business or operational requirements. Accommodation requests will be made as necessary to support individuals with disabilities.
Additionally, this position is subject to pre-employment screening, which may include drug testing and a background check.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The Townsend Company and its family of companies are equal opportunity employers. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees and applicants are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

What Townsend Tree Service employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom