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Tree Service Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

At Riggs Tree Service you can get paid as soon as you end your shift. One great perk of working at Riggs is we offer on-demand pay through our financial wellness provider, Payactiv. With the Payactiv ...

Groundperson

Maquoketa, IA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

At Riggs Tree Service you can get paid as soon as you end your shift. One great perk of working at Riggs is we offer on-demand pay through our financial wellness provider, Payactiv. With the Payactiv ...

Ability to properly identify tree, weed, and brush for analysis in multiple geographic locations * Excellent customer service and communication skills focused on rapport-building, listening ...

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Tree Service information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$23

$33

How much do tree service jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree service in Iowa is $23.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $26.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tree service professional?

Tree service professionals are trained experts who provide a range of services related to the care, maintenance, and removal of trees. Their work includes tree pruning, trimming, removal, stump grinding, and sometimes emergency storm damage cleanup. Tree service specialists ensure trees are healthy, safe, and aesthetically pleasing, often using specialized equipment and techniques to work safely and efficiently. They may also advise on tree health, pest management, and planting. Hiring a certified and insured tree service company helps protect your property and the health of your trees.

What are the qualifications to get a tree service job?

Tree climbers may need a high school diploma or GED certificate, depending on the requirements of the employer. You should have excellent tree climbing skills and completely lack an aversion to heights. Training, or even an interest, in horticulture, landscape design, or arboriculture can set you apart from other candidates. Some employers may require you have your own tree maintenance equipment. It is imperative you know how to use and maintain the tools you use to trim, inspect, and maintain trees. If your duties include the application of pesticides, some states require you first obtain a special license.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in tree service, and why are they important?

To thrive in Tree Service, you need knowledge of arboriculture practices, physical fitness, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with chainsaws, climbing gear, wood chippers, and certifications like ISA Certified Arborist or Tree Risk Assessment Qualification are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and attention to safety help individuals excel in this role. These skills are crucial for maintaining tree health, ensuring personal and public safety, and delivering reliable service to clients.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in tree service, and how can they be addressed?

Tree service professionals often encounter challenges such as working in hazardous conditions, dealing with unpredictable weather, and handling heavy equipment safely. To address these challenges, it’s important to receive thorough safety training, use proper personal protective equipment, and stay updated on the latest industry best practices. Collaborating closely with team members and maintaining clear communication on-site also help ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely. Many employers also emphasize ongoing education and certification to keep skills sharp and reduce job-related risks.

How much does the average tree service worker make?

The average tree service worker earns around $15 to $25 per hour, with annual salaries typically ranging from $30,000 to $50,000. Experience, certifications, and the complexity of tasks can influence earnings, and workers often use chainsaws, climbing gear, and safety equipment on the job.

Is tree service a good career?

Tree service is a physically demanding profession that involves tasks such as tree trimming, removal, and stump grinding, often requiring climbing and the use of specialized tools. It can offer steady employment and opportunities for advancement, especially with certifications in safety and arboriculture. However, it also involves risks and irregular schedules, so suitability depends on individual preferences and physical fitness.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tree Service jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Tree Service jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Tree Service jobs in Iowa?

For Tree Service jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tree Service jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Tree Service jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Tree Service jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Tree Service job openings:

Infographic showing various Tree Service job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 99% In-person, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $48,476 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Tree Service Equipment Operator : Ottumwa, Iowa

W A Kendall and Company LLC

Ottumwa, IA

$22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

The Equipment Operator operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Always follow and help enforce safe practices and rules
  • Assist in preparing equipment and materials for each day’s work at Foreperson’s direction
  • Operate equipment as directed by Foreperson
  • Help maintain and repair equipment and tools used in operations
  • Assist other crew members in all aspects of daily activities and take a leadership role when required
  • Cleans up and disposes of all debris
  • Sets up barriers, warning signs, flags, markers, etc. to protect employees and public
  • Keeps informed on new equipment, specifications, standard practices, operating procedures, and customer and company employee relations policies and practices.
  • Track and report mileage to Foreperson
  • Perform duties for storm work as needed

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

At least 1 to 5 years’ prior experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries preferred; previous experience as a General Foreperson preferred.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

High School diploma or education equivalent preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Must be knowledgeable about the daily maintenance and safe operations of all equipment used
  • Must possess physical strength and good balance to climb into and around mobile equipment
  • Must be able to enter and exit a vehicle numerous times a day
  • Must be able to work outdoors under varying and sometimes adverse weather conditions
  • Must be able to hear verbal instructions from a distance
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain first-aid certification and CPR
  • Must be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Must have good vision and be attentive
  • Must have and maintain a Driver’s License if hired for a driving position; must have and maintain a CDL and DOT Medical Card to operate any truck over 26,000 lbs.
  • Must be able to write, read and comprehend written and verbal job instructions/information
  • Must be able to maintain balance over uneven terrain
  • Must be able to communicate with others
  • Must have endurance necessary to perform duties throughout a standard eight or ten hour day
  • Must be able to travel out of town for storm restoration work when needed

Position requires employee to be able to pass a background check and drug screen as required for this job.

Work authorization requirements:

Must meet I-9 requirements.

Affirmative Action/EEO statement: Xylem Tree Experts and Kendall Vegetation Services provide equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, obligations, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

XKIG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws, including the ADA. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at 877-418-2999.

Benefits Offered:

This is a full-time position that offers health insurance benefits for medical, vision, and dental, as well as the option for enrollment in a 401K.

Paid Time Off (PTO)
Eligibility and accrual timelines vary by position with some roles gaining PTO immediately and others becoming eligible after a set period of employment. Details are provided during the hiring process and may vary for Union hires.

AI Usage Disclaimer:

As part of our commitment to efficiency and innovation, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools during the recruiting and onboarding processes. These tools assist with tasks such as resume screening, interview scheduling, and communication. All decisions regarding hiring and employment are ultimately made by our human team. If you have questions or concerns about this process, please contact our HR department.