1

Tree Trimmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Tree Trimmer. THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE Will have a proven track record demonstrating the following knowledge, skills, and abilities: Thorough knowledge of: Methods, procedures, tools and ...

Tree Trimmer Crew Leader

Oakland, CA · On-site

$83K - $102K/yr

Tree Worker Tree Trimmer We are looking for someone who is: Knowledgeable about climbing safety protocol and tree growth, planting, and trimming. Skilled at climbing and operating tree maintenance ...

Senior Tree Trimmer

Salinas, CA · On-site

$5.4K - $7.4K/mo

The Public Works, Facilities & Parks Department seeks to fill a current Senior Tree Trimmer vacancy. Under general supervision, the incumbent acts as the lead worker and performs skilled work of ...

Journeyman

Crescent City, CA · On-site

$32 - $44/hr

Advanced Tree Trimmer Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Job Summary: The Advanced Tree Trimmer role is a qualified Line Clearance Tree Trimmer responsible for pruning ...

Journeyman

Crescent City, CA · On-site

$32 - $44/hr

Advanced Tree Trimmer Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Job Summary: The Advanced Tree Trimmer role is a qualified Line Clearance Tree Trimmer responsible for pruning ...

Tree Climber also needs to have technical knowledge of commercial tree trimming practices and hold an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Tree Worker certificate. Climbers will ...

Tree Climber

Orange, CA · On-site

$26 - $31/hr

Tree Climber also needs to have technical knowledge of commercial tree trimming practices and hold an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Tree Worker certificate. Climbers will ...

Tree Climber also needs to have technical knowledge of commercial tree trimming practices and hold an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Tree Worker certificate. Climbers will ...

Showing results 21-40

Tree Trimmer information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$37

How much do tree trimmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree trimmer in California is $25.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $32.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tree trimmer?

A tree trimmer, also known as an arborist, manages the health, maintenance, and appearance of trees by pruning diseased or damaged limbs. Tree trimmers work in a variety of locations such as residences, schools, hospitals, hotels, and indoor mall gardens. Utility companies often contract tree trimmers to clear trees that are close to power lines and remove any debris in the area. Some businesses hire tree trimmers as part of a site’s annual landscaping maintenance. Duties include the use of manual and power tools along with scaffolding equipment, and the operation of heavy machinery, like boom trucks.

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

To thrive as a Tree Trimmer, you need knowledge of arboriculture, physical fitness, and experience with safe tree cutting and pruning techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with chainsaws, climbing gear, and potentially certifications like ISA Certified Tree Worker are typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient work that protects both workers and property while maintaining healthy trees.

What are some common challenges faced by tree trimmers and how can they be managed on the job?

Tree trimmers often work in physically demanding and potentially hazardous conditions, such as at heights or near power lines. Managing these challenges involves adhering to strict safety protocols, using proper protective equipment, and staying updated on best practices for equipment handling. Team communication and planning are also crucial, as tree trimmers frequently coordinate with ground crews and other professionals to ensure each job is completed safely and efficiently. Ongoing training and certification can help mitigate risks and improve job performance.

What is the difference between Tree Trimmer vs Arborist?

AspectTree TrimmerArborist
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required, but some may have safety or equipment trainingRequires certifications such as ISA Certified Arborist
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, on trees, often in urban or suburban settingsOutdoor, on trees, often involved in assessment and health care
Employer & Industry UsageLandscaping companies, municipal parks, utility companiesTree care companies, consulting firms, municipal forestry departments

Tree Trimmers focus on pruning, trimming, and maintaining trees for safety and aesthetics, often with less formal training. Arborists have specialized knowledge in tree health, diagnosis, and preservation, often holding certifications. While both work outdoors on trees, arborists typically perform more complex assessments and treatments. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right professional for your tree care needs.

How hard is it to be a tree trimmer?

Being a tree trimmer involves physical labor, working at heights, and handling dangerous equipment like chainsaws and pruning tools. It requires strength, coordination, and often certification in safety procedures, making it a physically demanding and potentially risky job.

How much do tree trimmers make in the US?

Tree trimmers in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $40,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Many tree trimmers work outdoors using climbing and pruning tools, and some positions offer overtime or seasonal pay increases.

How much money do tree trimmers make?

Tree trimmers typically earn a median annual wage of around $40,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to over $60,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled workers who operate specialized equipment or work in hazardous conditions may earn higher wages.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tree Trimmer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Tree Trimmer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Tree Trimmer jobs in California?

For Tree Trimmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tree Trimmer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Tree Trimmer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Tree Trimmer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Tree Trimmer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Tree Trimmer jobs in CA?

For Tree Trimmer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Tree Trimmer 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, with an average salary of $52,227 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

$5.4K - $7.4K/mo

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Description Final Filing Date: Monday, September 7, 2026 Exam#: 26/74G22/08MZ The County of Monterey is committed to honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans and eligible military spouses and awards veterans' preference points for this recruitment. To learn more about the eligibility requirements and the process, be sure to read the Hiring Preference for Veterans and Eligible Military Spouses section located towards the end of this job flier. The Public Works, Facilities & Parks Department (PWFP) brings together a range of functions to ensure safe building construction, plan for the future needs of the County, manage infrastructure and county facilities, and protect natural resources.

The Department is responsible for public works, county roads and bridges, county parks, and county facilities. The Public Works, Facilities & Parks Department seeks to fill a current Senior Tree Trimmer vacancy. Under general supervision, the incumbent acts as the lead worker and performs skilled work of widely varying difficulty in the climbing, trimming, and removal of trees, and to do other work as required.

The Eligible List established by this recruitment process may be used County-wide to fill current and future vacancies on a regular full-time, part-time, or temporary basis. Examples of Duties Climbs, trims, tops and falls trees. Operates large and small chainsaws, aerial bucket, hydraulic pruners; maneuvers climbing gear.

Coordinates tree work to be done throughout the County with Road District Superintendents. Rigs ropes in trees and determines placement of ropes for easiest and safest removal of limbs; ties special knots used for climbing and removal of limbs. Determines limbs to be removed or trimming to be done in order to have a well trimmed and balanced tree.

Sets up job sites and assures proper safety precautions are taken; sets up barricades; flags traffic. To view the complete classification description, please visit the County of Monterey website: Senior Tree Trimmer. THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE Will have a proven track record demonstrating the following knowledge, skills, and abilities: Thorough knowledge of: Methods, procedures, tools and equipment used in climbing, trimming and removing trees.

Safety methods used when trimming around power lines, structures and populated areas and CAL-OSHA safety standards as they relate to this position. Rope knots commonly used in tree work such as Bowline, Running Bowline, Timber Hitch, Clove Hitch with Half Hitch, Repelling Knot (Monkey Fist). Characteristics of trees common to the area in order to estimate the health of trees.

Some knowledge of: Basic math sufficient to keep timecards and service records and to take measurements. Skill and Ability to: Plan, assign, train, direct and evaluate the work of others. Skillfully and safely climb, trim and fell trees.

Safely operate tools and equipment used in tree work such as chainsaws, pruners, aerial bucket, chipper, etc. Perform heavy manual labor. Read maps.

Read and write English at a level sufficient to follow oral and written instructions and to complete basic time and equipment records. Develop and maintain cooperative work relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Maintain good public relations.

Examples of Experience/Education/Training Any combination of training, education and/or experience which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities and required conditions of employment listed above is qualifying. An example of a way these requirements might be acquired is: Experience: At least three years of experience performing duties equivalent to that of a Tree Trimmer in Monterey County. Additional Information REQUIRED CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT The required conditions of employment include, but are not limited to the following: Possess a valid California Class A driver license at the time of appointment and possess and maintain a satisfactory driving record.

Be available to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and during times of disaster and/or emergency. Incumbents are required to report for duty within 30 minutes of notification of call to emergency duty. BENEFITS: The County of Monterey offers an excellent benefits package.

Please visit our website to view the J Unit Benefit Summary Sheet. This information is not legally binding, nor does it serve as a contract. The benefits listed in the Monterey County Personnel Policies and Practices Resolution or Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) prevail over this listing.

NOTES: As a condition of employment, prospective employees may be required to submit to a background review which may include a review of information concerning present and/or prior employment, driving record, and record of any criminal convictions. Employment is contingent upon acceptable documentation verifying identity and authorization for employment in the U.S.; a list of acceptable documents is available on the USCIS Form I-9. If you are hired into this classification in a temporary position, your rate of pay will be hourly, and you will not be eligible for the benefits listed in the summary

Application and Selection Procedures Apply On-Line at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/montereycounty, by Final Filing Date: Monday, September 7, 2026, 11:59 PM(PST) Or Hard copy applications may be obtained from and submitted during normal business hours, Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM by contacting: Monterey County, Public Works, Facilities & Parks Department Attn: Marlene Zamudio, Human Resources Analyst 1441 Schilling Place, 1st Floor, Salinas CA 93901 Email: zamudiomr@countyofmonterey.gov Phone: (831) 755-4893 Fax: (831) 784-5603 The selection process is tentative, and applicants will be notified if changes are made. To assess applicants' possession of required qualifications, the examination process may include an oral examination, pre-examination exercises, performance examination, and/or written examination. The competitive examination process includes submittal of required application materials

A complete application package will include: A completed County of Monterey Employment Application Responses to all of the Supplemental Questions Resumes, cover letters, letters of interest, and other correspondence will not be accepted as a substitute for required application materials. All required application materials will be competitively evaluated. Those applicants that are determined to be the most appropriately qualified will be invited to participate further in the selection process.

HIRING PREFERENCE FOR VETERANS AND ELIGIBLE MILITARY SPOUSES The County of Monterey is committed to honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans and eligible military spouses (i.e., surviving spouses of veterans, spouses of totally disabled veterans, and spouses of active-duty service members) and awards veterans' preference points for this recruitment. To obtain a Veterans and Eligible Military Spouse Preference Application, please visit the Human Resources website or click on the following link: Click Here to View the Veterans and Eligible Military Spouse Preference Application. To apply for veterans' preference points, veterans or eligible military spouses must complete and email a Veterans and Eligible Military Spouse Preference Application with supporting documentation of their eligibility by the final filing deadline to VeteransPreferencePoints@countyofmonterey.gov

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION Monterey County is a drug-free workplace and an equal opportunity employer. The County seeks candidates who can make contributions in an environment of cultural and ethnic diversity. Monterey County is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities.

To request reasonable accommodation, contact Marlene Zamudio, Human Resources Analyst, at (831) 755-4893, or zamudiomr@countyofmonterey.gov.