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Tree Trimming Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... tree trimming and line clearing operations serving utility companies and other clients. * Ground-level and aloft tree pruning, felling, and vegetation removal to maintain clearance around power lines ...

... tree trimming and line clearing operations serving utility companies and other clients. * Ground-level and aloft tree pruning, felling, and vegetation removal to maintain clearance around power lines ...

Tree Care Superintendent

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Demonstrate correct equipment use to crews and assist with tree trimming, and general cleanup. * Coordinating with branch management, customers and other employees as needed. * Interact on a regular ...

Tree Care Superintendent

Northbrook, IL ยท On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Demonstrate correct equipment use to crews and assist with tree trimming, and general cleanup. * Coordinating with branch management, customers and other employees as needed. * Interact on a regular ...

Tree Care Superintendent

Roselle, IL ยท On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Demonstrate correct equipment use to crews and assist with tree trimming, and general cleanup. * Coordinating with branch management, customers and other employees as needed. * Interact on a regular ...

Class C Driver / Laborer

Alsip, IL ยท On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

Day-to-day tasks include assisting with tree trimming, removal, and cleanup, loading and unloading branches and debris, and maintaining a clean and organized work area. The role may also involve ...

Climber : Gary, IN

Gary, IN ยท On-site

$27.50/hr

Must be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of all knots, ropes, and rigging devices used in tree trimming and removal operations * Must be able to climb and descend trees using rope and safety ...

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Tree Trimming information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$26

$38

How much do tree trimming jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree trimming in Chicago, IL is $26.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $34.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tree trimmer?

Tree trimmers, also known as arborists or tree pruners, are professionals who specialize in pruning, cutting, and removing branches from trees to improve their health, safety, and appearance. They use specialized equipment to assess tree health, remove dead or hazardous limbs, and shape trees according to landscape requirements. Tree trimmers also ensure that trees do not interfere with utilities or pose risks to property and people. Their work can involve climbing trees, using chainsaws, and following safety protocols to protect themselves and the environment.

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 tree biology, safe pruning techniques, and physical fitness, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with chainsaws, climbing gear, chippers, and sometimes certifications like ISA Certified Tree Worker are typical requirements. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure proper tree care, personal safety, and efficient teamwork in potentially hazardous outdoor environments.

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

Tree trimming professionals frequently encounter safety challenges such as working at heights, handling sharp equipment, and dealing with unpredictable tree conditions. To address these, teams follow strict safety protocols such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), using harnesses and ropes, and conducting site assessments before starting work. Many employers also provide ongoing safety training and emphasize teamwork to ensure everyone looks out for potential hazards. Adhering to these practices helps minimize risks and promotes a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Tree Trimming vs Tree Pruning?

AspectTree TrimmingTree Pruning
PurposeMaintain shape, remove dead or overgrown branchesImprove health, remove diseased or damaged parts
TechniquesCutting back branches to shapeSelective removal of specific parts for health
ToolsSaws, shears, pruning toolsSaws, pruning shears, loppers
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, often in residential or commercial landscapesOutdoor, often in landscape management or arboriculture

Tree Trimming focuses on shaping and maintaining the appearance of trees, while Tree Pruning emphasizes health and safety by removing diseased or damaged parts. Both require similar skills and tools, but their goals differ, making them distinct yet related tasks in tree care.

How much do tree trimmers make in the US?

Tree trimmers in the US typically earn a median hourly wage of around $16 to $20, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $33,000 to $41,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and geographic location, and the job often involves working outdoors with tools like chainsaws and pruning equipment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tree Trimming jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Tree Trimming jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Tree Trimming jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Tree Trimming jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tree Trimming jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Tree Trimming jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Tree Trimming jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Tree Trimming job openings:

Infographic showing various Tree Trimming job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,515 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Job Posting Title Trimmer 4

Lewis Services

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$32.06/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Trimmer 4
Job Locations US-IL-Chicago
Job Post Information* : Posted Date 23 hours ago(9/2/2026 10:41 AM)
Job ID 2026-5740
# of Openings 2
Department Field Operations
Job Posting Location : Location US-IL-Chicago
Job Post Information* : External Company Name Lewis Services
Job Posting Location : Postal Code 60601
Position Type Full-Time
Remote (Google for Jobs Only Field) No
Job Location Type Onsite
Overview
Join a Company That Grows People

At Lewis, we're not just trimming trees - we're building a future. As the second-largest utility vegetation management company in North America and a proud employee-owned business, we believe every person on our team matters. When you join Lewis, you're not just taking a job - you're investing in your future.

Why You'll Love It Here
  • Experience the great outdoors while working in nature, not stuck behind a desk!ย 
  • Elevate your career with us - we prioritize training and internal promotions!ย 
  • Join a vibrant team that champions safety, values your feedback, and fosters a strong sense of camaraderie!ย 
Responsibilities

What You'll Do as a Trimmer

As a Trimmer at Lewis Tree Services, you'll build foundational skills in utility vegetation management and provide support for tree trimming and line clearing operations serving utility companies and other clients.

  • Ground-level and aloft tree pruning, felling, and vegetation removal to maintain clearance around power lines and equipment (includes climbing or aerial lift work under supervision and proper training).
  • Operate chainsaws, chippers, and similar equipment; use handlines to lower limbs and equipment; fell and rig trees.
  • Assist with job site set up, maintenance, rigging, traffic control, and general job site cleanup.
  • Support job site safety by spotting, assisting climbers, and communicating hazards.
  • Apply herbicides in accordance with company and legal guidelines.
  • Drive and operate trucks and specialized equipment (certification required).
  • Participate in job briefings and follow safety protocols.
  • Travel as needed for work, including potential overnight stays.
Qualifications

What You Bring

  • At least 12 months' experience working on tree crews as a Trimmer Trainee.
  • Basic knowledge of tree species and arboriculture pruning techniques.
  • Ability to perform work at heights and use climbing gear or aerial lifts.
  • Trimmer Technical Knowledge and Skills Certification (or ability to complete).
  • Valid driver's license, CDL, and medical certification as required.
  • CPR and First Aid certified (provided by Lewis).
  • Acquire and keep the required training and licenses for the safe and proper use of herbicides.
  • Strong teamwork, communication, and situational awareness skills.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable state, local, and federal regulations

Physical Demands

Ability to:

  • Lift 50 lbs. to shoulder height or higher
  • Push or pull up to 50 lbs.
  • Walk or hike up to one mile on uneven terrain
  • Endure extreme climate variances (e.g., severe cold to high heat and humidity)
  • Hear, speak, see, and communicate effectively
  • Operate two-handed tools and equipment
  • Progress skill in tree ascent and descent
  • Work and maneuver at considerable heights during adverse weather conditions

Continuously - Standing, Walking, Handling/Grasping, Repetitive Movements.

Frequently - Lifting/Carrying, Pushing/Pulling, Stooping/Kneeling, Reaching/ Tree Ascending-Descending.

Occasionally - Driving / Climbing (stairs/ladders)

Rarely - Sitting/Operating

Comments: You should expect variability in size, proportions, conditions, and weights of supplies, equipment, and work conditions.

Environmental Conditions:

Continuously - Outdoor work

Occasionally - Noise Levels

Frequently - Extreme Temperatures

Rarely - Contact with hazardous materials or air quality issues

Never - Confined Spaces

Comments: You should expect variability based on regional weather patterns. Personal protective equipment is required to be worn by OSHA and ANSI.

Tools & Equipment

  • Equipment may include:
  • Aerial lift trucks, dump trucks, ATVs
  • Chainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, chippers
  • Blowers, pruners, rakes, winches, ropes
  • Climbing gear: harness, chaps, spikes
  • Sprayers, herbicide applicators, fuel, cones, signs
  • Tablets and communication devices

What We Offer

Union Benefits (Remove if Non-Union):

  • Competitive pay, $32.06/Hr.
  • Paid training and certifications.
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • IBEW Local 09 Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
People Promise

Our People Promise

Our commitment to Our People is key to the success of our business.ย  We respect the differences between us, and we leverage those differences to create an environment where all employees feel welcome and fairly treated.ย  We seek the best solutions possible by attracting and engaging a diverse workforce where all perspectives are sought out and valued.ย 


Lewis Tree Service is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to providing equal opportunity for both applicants and employees. Lewis Tree Service prohibits unlawful discrimination or harassment of employees and applicants based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, age (40+), religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic, all employment decisions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, compensation, training, apprenticeship, promotion, demotion, transfer, lay-off and termination, and all other terms and conditions of employment. Lewis Tree Service's practices and policies are administered under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Spanish Posting

Unase a una empresa que fomenta el crecimiento de las personas

En Lewis, no solo podamos arboles, construimos un futuro. Como la segunda empresa de mayor tamano de gestion de servicios y vegetacion en Norteamerica y una orgullosa empresa propiedad de sus empleados, creemos que cada persona de nuestro equipo es importante. Cuando se incorpora a Lewis, no solo comienza un trabajo, invierte en su futuro.

Por que le encantara trabajar aqui

  • Experimente un maravilloso entorno al aire libre mientras trabaja en la naturaleza, no quede atrapado detras de un escritorio!ย 
  • Eleve su carrera profesional con nosotros. Priorizamos la capacitacion y las promociones internas!ย 
  • Unase a un equipo vibrante que es pionero en seguridad, valora su opinion y fomenta un fuerte sentido de la camaraderia!ย 

Sus funciones como podador

Como podador en Lewis Tree Services, desarrollara habilidades basicas en la gestion de vegetacion de servicios publicos y brindara apoyo para las operaciones de poda de arboles y despeje de lineas electricas al servicio de empresas de servicios publicos y otros clientes.

  • Poda, tala y eliminacion de vegetacion de arboles a nivel del suelo y en altura para mantener la distancia alrededor de lineas electricas y equipos (incluye trabajos de escalada o en plataforma aerea bajo supervision y capacitacion adecuada).
  • Operar motosierras, astilladoras y equipos similares; utilizar lineas de mano para bajar ramas y equipos; talar y aparejar arboles.
  • Colaborar con la preparacion del lugar de trabajo, el mantenimiento, el aparejo, el control del trafico y la limpieza general del lugar de trabajo.
  • Respaldar la seguridad en el lugar de trabajo mediante la observacion y asistencia a los escaladores, y la comunicacion de los peligros.
  • Aplicar herbicidas de acuerdo con las pautas de la empresa y la ley.
  • Conducir y operar camiones y equipos especializados (se requiere certificacion).
  • Participar en las reuniones del trabajo y seguir todos los protocolos de seguridad.
  • Viajar segun sea necesario para el trabajo, incluidos posibles pernoctes.

Lo que usted aporta

  • Al menos 12 meses de experiencia como podador aprendiz en cuadrillas de poda de arboles.
  • Conocimientos basicos de especies de arboles y tecnicas de poda arboricola.
  • Capacidad para realizar trabajos en altura y utilizar equipo de escalada o en plataformas aereas.
  • Certificacion de conocimientos y habilidades tecnicas del podador (o capacidad para completar estos requisitos).
  • Licencia de conducir valida, CDL y certificacion medica segun se requiera.
  • Certificacion en RCP y primeros auxilios (proporcionada por Lewis).
  • Obtener y mantener la capacitacion y las licencias necesarias para el uso seguro y adecuado de herbicidas.
  • Solidas habilidades de trabajo en equipo, comunicacion y conocimiento de la situacion.
  • Garantizar el cumplimiento de todas las reglamentaciones locales, estatales y federales aplicables.

Demandas fisicas

Capacidad para las siguientes actividades:

  • Levantar 50 libras hasta la altura de los hombros o mas arriba.
  • Empujar o tirar hasta 50 libras.
  • Caminar hasta una milla por terrenos irregulares.
  • Soportar variaciones climaticas extremas (por ejemplo, de frio intenso a calor y humedad elevados).
  • Escuchar, hablar, ver y comunicarse de manera efectiva.
  • Operar herramientas y equipos con las dos manos.
  • Realizar progreso en la habilidad al subir y bajar de los arboles.
  • Trabajar y maniobrar a alturas considerables durante condiciones climaticas adversas.

De forma continua:ย estar de pie, caminar, manipular/sujetar, movimientos repetitivos

Con frecuencia:ย levantar/llevar, empujar/tirar, agacharse/arrodillarse, alcanzar, subir/bajar de arboles

En ocasiones: conducir/subir (escaleras fijas/plegables)

Rara vez: estar sentado/operar

Comentarios: Debe esperar una variabilidad en el tamano, proporciones, condiciones y pesos de los suministros al igual que en los equipos y las condiciones de trabajo.

Condiciones ambientales:

De forma continua: trabajar al aire libre

En ocasiones: niveles de ruido

Con frecuencia: temperaturas extremas

Rara vez: contacto con materiales peligrosos o problemas de calidad del aire

Nunca:ย espacios confinados

Comentarios: Debe esperar una variabilidad con base en los patrones climaticos regionales. Se requiere que el equipo de proteccion personal se use segun la Administracion de Seguridad y Salud Ocupacional (OSHA) y el Instituto Nacional Estadounidense de Estandares (ANSI).

Herramientas y equipos

  • Los equipos pueden incluir lo siguiente: - Camiones con plataforma aerea, camiones volquete, vehiculos todo terreno
  • Motosierras, sierras de pertiga, sierras de mano, astilladoras
  • Sopladores, podadoras, rastrillos, cabrestantes, cuerdas
  • Equipo de escalada: arnes, correas, puas
  • Pulverizadores, aplicadores de herbicida, combustible, conos, senales - Tabletas y dispositivos de comunicacion

Lo que ofrecemos

Beneficios sindicales:

  • Pago competitivo $32.06/Hr.ย 
  • Capacitaciones y certificaciones remuneradas
  • Oportunidades de progreso en la carrera profesional
  • Beneficios del sindicato IBEW Local 09
  • Programa de Asistencia al Empleado (EAP)

Compromiso con nuestra gente

El compromiso con nuestra gente es la clave del exito de nuestro negocio.ย  Respetamos las diferencias entre nosotros, y aprovechamos esas diferencias para crear un entorno donde todos los empleados se sientan bienvenidos y tratados con justicia.ย  Buscamos las mejores soluciones posibles al atraer e involucrar a una fuerza laboral diversa donde se busquen y valoren todas las perspectivas.ย 

Lewis Tree Service es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades de empleo y se compromete a brindar igualdad de oportunidades tanto a los candidatos como a los empleados. Lewis Tree Service prohibe la discriminacion ilegal o el acoso de empleados y candidatos por motivos de raza, credo, color, nacionalidad, sexo, edad (mayores de 40 anos), religion, discapacidad, estado civil, orientacion sexual, informacion genetica, estado de ciudadania, estado de veterano o cualquier otra condicion legal protegida, todas las d...