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Tree Surgeon Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Climb Crew Foreman

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Job Summary Moon Valley Nurseries is looking for a Tree Climber Foreman who will be responsible for providing expert tree surgery services and inspections to customer properties. This position ...

Climb Crew Foreman

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Job Summary Moon Valley Nurseries is looking for a Tree Climber Foreman who will be responsible for providing expert tree surgery services and inspections to customer properties. This position ...

Tree Surgeon information

See Arizona salary details

$35.4K

$316.1K

$372.8K

How much do tree surgeon jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for tree surgeon in Arizona is $316,072.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $282,400.00 and $372,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tree surgeon?

Tree surgeons, also known as arborists, are professionals who specialize in the care and maintenance of trees. Their work involves tasks such as pruning, felling, planting, and treating trees for diseases or pests. They often assess the health and safety of trees, provide advice on proper care, and may perform emergency tree removals after storms. Tree surgeons use specialized equipment and follow safety protocols to ensure both their own safety and that of the surrounding property. Their expertise helps maintain healthy urban and rural trees, contributing to environmental and public safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tree surgeon?

To thrive as a Tree Surgeon, you need strong knowledge of arboriculture, tree biology, and safe pruning or removal techniques, often supported by certifications like ISA Certified Arborist or relevant vocational training. Proficiency in using chainsaws, climbing gear, rigging systems, and specialized machinery is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are key soft skills for assessing tree health and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are critical to safely managing tree care, protecting property, and maintaining environmental health.

What are some typical challenges faced by tree surgeons when working on-site?

Tree surgeons frequently encounter challenges such as working at heights, dealing with unpredictable weather conditions, and managing hazardous equipment safely. Each site presents unique obstacles, including limited access to trees, nearby power lines, or protecting surrounding property from damage. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, especially when coordinating with ground crews to ensure safety and efficiency during complex tree removals or pruning tasks.

What is the difference between Tree Surgeon vs Arborist?

AspectTree SurgeonArborist
CertificationsChainsaw & tree climbing certifications, safety trainingArborist certification (e.g., ISA Certified Arborist)
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, on-site tree care, pruning, removalOutdoor, tree health assessment, pruning, planting advice
Employer & Industry UsageTree care companies, landscaping firmsTree service companies, municipal parks, landscaping
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Tree Surgeons and Arborists work outdoors, focusing on tree health and safety. Tree Surgeons often emphasize physical tree removal and pruning, while Arborists specialize in tree health assessments and consulting. Certifications overlap, but Arborists typically hold industry-recognized certifications like ISA. Overall, Tree Surgeons are more hands-on in tree removal, whereas Arborists provide expert advice on tree care and preservation.

Do tree surgeons need a degree?

Tree surgeons typically do not need a university degree but benefit from relevant qualifications such as a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) in Arboriculture. Practical experience, climbing skills, and certifications like First Aid and chainsaw operation are also important for working safely and effectively in this field.

How much do tree surgeons make in the US?

Tree surgeons in the US typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, with experienced professionals and those with certifications earning higher wages. Compensation depends on factors such as experience, location, and skill level, and often includes physical labor and the use of specialized tools.

What are popular job titles related to Tree Surgeon jobs in Arizona?

For Tree Surgeon jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Tree Surgeon job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $316,072 per year, or $152 per hour.

Climb Crew Foreman

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Summary                                                                                                                                                                                  

Moon Valley Nurseries is looking for a Tree Climber Foreman who will be responsible for providing expert tree surgery services and inspections to customer properties. This position requires driving and managing a team of tree workers at job sites in the performance of various tree trimming and care services.  Responsibilities will include teaching, coaching, and performing climbing, pruning and tree removal services with bucket trucks, chainsaws, and other power equipment on residential and commercial properties.

Key Duties and Responsibilities                                                                                                                                          
  • Direct the team in tree trimming and care services, including handling on-site personnel issues and training employees on best practices.
  • Ability to understand and enforce company policies and procedures.
  • Plan and organize jobs and work orders to ensure that sufficient resources and materials are available.
  • Provide recommendations to management on job status, personnel issues, or client concerns.
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment, including worksite and equipment.
  • Complete the job in a time-efficient manner and meeting company productivity targets.
  • Complete the necessary paperwork including work orders, time sheets, and material requisitions.
  • Perform tree removals safely using power tools, climbing gear, and rigging systems.
  • Use proper pruning techniques, and properly clear, chip, and dispose of tree debris.
Qualifications: Knowledge, Skills & Abilities                                                                                                                 
  • Valid driver’s license insurable with company's insurers is required.
  • Working knowledge of standard landscaping and horticultural practices highly desired
  • Two years’ experience climbing and pruning trees.
  • Two years’ experience in the landscaping field preferred
  • Clear and effective communication skills
  • Aptitude in basic mathematical skills, job-planning, and problem-solving
  • Mechanical aptitude is a must.
Education                                                                                                                                                                                          

High School Diploma or GED preferred.

Physical requirements/Working Conditions                                                                                                                

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to verbally exchange information with colleagues, managers, and vendors. The position is active and may require standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, and climbing throughout the day. The employee must frequently reach for, pull, lift, and/or move items weighing up to and over 75lbs.  The employee must be able to work outdoors for extended periods of time in possibly extreme conditions, including rain, heat, sun, and wind. The position is expected to be full-time and may be scheduled on weekdays and weekends.

Other                                                                                                                                                                                                 

Subject to MVR, DOT and criminal background check in accordance with applicable fair chance laws, rules, and regulations

During the interview process, applicants are expected to wear appropriate work attire, considering the nature of the role, and may be requested to demonstrate skills.

About Us                                                                                                                                                                                           

Moon Valley Nurseries is the largest grower of box trees and palms in North America and is an industry leader and high growth company that offers competitive salaries with exceptional employee benefits including medical insurance, 401(k), holidays, and PTO to all eligible employees. Moon Valley Nurseries is an equal opportunity employer and makes hiring and other employment decisions without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law. Further, qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered in accordance with all applicable state and local fair chance laws. We are a Drug Free Workplace.

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