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Tree Work Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Tree Climber What We Offer · * Competitive pay up to $38hr based on experience, skill level, and ... Time off to support your work/life balance * Career Growth & Development: Extensive training ...

Tree Climber-Tree Care

Warrenville, IL

$22 - $30.25/hr

Tree Climber What We Offer · * Compensation: Competitive pay based on experience, skill level, and ... Time off to support your work/life balance * Career Growth & Development: Extensive training ...

Tree Climber

Evanston, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

These industrial athletes work together to provide high-quality tree care, helping to maintain and preserve the overall health of our clients' landscapes. In this role, as a Tree Climber you will ...

Be Seen First

The company has been engaged in contracting Tree Care, Tree clearing, specialized forestry work, ditch clearing and maintenance, shoreline and environmental restoration work for over 38 years. We are ...

Tree Climber

Lockport, IL · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Tree Climber - Full Time Department: Homer Tree Care, Inc. Job Summary: The Tree Climber is ... Follow climbing work plan * Identifying electrical hazards * Utilizes methods of ascending amp ...

Tree Climber

Long Grove, IL · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Maintain safe and organized work zone * Effectively implement plans to prevent property damage and personal injury during tree care operations. Education and Experience: * Demonstration of role ...

Tree Climber

Long Grove, IL · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Maintain safe and organized work zone * Effectively implement plans to prevent property damage and personal injury during tree care operations. Education and Experience: * Demonstration of role ...

Crew Lead / Tree Climber

Evanston, IL · On-site

$20.25 - $28/hr

These industrial athletes work together to provide high-quality tree care, helping to maintain and preserve the overall health of our clients' landscapes. In this role, team members have the ...

Tree Care Superintendent

Roselle, IL · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

We are looking for a bright, energetic individual that is detail oriented, has a strong work ethic ... Supervising tree care service activities of each crew according to property and client ...

Tree Care Superintendent

Chicago, IL

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

We are looking for a bright, energetic individual that is detail oriented, has a strong work ethic ... Supervising tree care service activities of each crew according to property and client ...

Crew Lead / Tree Climber

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$22 - $30.25/hr

These industrial athletes work together to provide high-quality tree care, helping to maintain and preserve the overall health of our clients' landscapes. In this role, team members have the ...

Arborist Climber

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19 - $30/hr

Ability to work outdoors year-round in all weather conditions The F. A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer. Chicago IL Production Arborist 8/26/2026 Regular ...

Ability to work outdoors year-round in all weather conditions The F. A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer. Northbrook IL Production Arborist 8/21/2026 Regular ...

Arborist Climber

Barrington, IL · On-site

$19 - $30/hr

Ability to work outdoors year-round in all weather conditions The F. A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer. Location : Name Lake Barrington Location : State ...

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Tree Work information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do tree work jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree work in Chicago, IL is $25.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $29.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is tree work?

A Tree Work job involves maintaining, pruning, removing, and caring for trees to ensure their health and safety. Professionals in this field, known as arborists or tree workers, use specialized equipment to trim branches, remove hazardous trees, and handle emergency tree services. They may also provide tree planting, pest control, and disease management. This work is essential for maintaining landscapes, preventing property damage, and promoting tree health.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in tree work?

To thrive in Tree Work, proficiency in climbing, chainsaw operation, and a strong understanding of arboriculture practices are essential, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant safety certifications such as OSHA or ISA Arborist Certification. Workers use technical tools such as harnesses, ropes, rigging equipment, wood chippers, and may operate aerial lifts. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail help individuals work safely and efficiently in teams and interact with clients. These skills are crucial to ensure safety, quality workmanship, and client satisfaction while performing physically demanding and potentially hazardous tasks.

What are typical work conditions like for tree work?

Tree work professionals often work outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions, which can include heat, cold, rain, or wind. The job involves climbing trees or working at heights, operating heavy equipment, and handling physically demanding tasks such as cutting, hauling, and chipping wood. Teamwork is vital, as safety protocols require coordination and communication with other crew members, while some projects may also involve directly interacting with customers. Daily responsibilities may range from tree removal and pruning to storm cleanup or plant health care. The dynamic environment means adaptability and a focus on safety are key to success and well-being in the role.

How do I get into tree work?

To get into tree work, you typically need to gain experience through entry-level positions or apprenticeships, develop skills in climbing and equipment use, and obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training or arborist credentials. Starting with a strong understanding of safety procedures and physical fitness is essential for success in this field.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Tree Work job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,451 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Tree Climber-Tree Care

Northbrook, IL • On-site

SavATree LLC
Environmental Consulting Services • 1 - 5K employees

$38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Climb and prune large shade trees and ornamentals using proper practices.

  • Perform tree removals, cable bracing, and other tree care techniques.

  • Safely operate chainsaws, aerial lifts, and other equipment as part of tree care activities.


SavATree rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Tree Climber

What We Offer·       

  •  Competitive pay up to $38hr based on experience, skill level, and responsibilities
  • Benefits: Health and dental insurance, paid time off, 401(k) Savings Plan, and Flexible Spending Plan
  • Time Off: Time off to support your work/life balance
  • Career Growth & Development: Extensive training, continuing education, and opportunities to grow your career in arboriculture
  • Team & Collaborative Environment: Work with some of the best trained and equipped professionals in the industry, with a focus on safety, quality, and teamwork

Position Summary

As a Tree Climber on our General Tree Care Team, you’ll play a vital role in maintaining and preserving the health of our clients’ landscapes. A typical day may include:
• Climbing and pruning large shade trees and ornamentals using proper practices
• Performing removals, cable bracing, and other tree care techniques
• Safely operating chainsaws, equipment, and aerial lifts (bucket trucks)
• Working as part of a team to deliver high-quality service to clients
• Applying industry safety standards in all aspects of tree care

This role offers the opportunity to work outdoors, visit beautiful properties in your community, and apply your climbing expertise to protect and enhance landscapes. Class C license required within 90 days of employment.

About You

You are safety-focused, skilled in climbing, and eager to build your career in tree care. You bring:
• Experience with proper pruning practices for large shade trees and ornamentals
• Ability to identify native and introduced tree/shrub species and their characteristics
• Ability to climb without spurs
• Knowledge of tree care safety standards
• Hands-on experience with chainsaws and related equipment
• Experience operating aerial lifts (bucket truck)
• A valid U.S. driver’s license class C (CDL a plus)
• Authorization to lawfully work in the U.S.

About SavATree

SavATree was founded 45 years ago with a mission to preserve trees threatened by the gypsy moth epidemic. Since then, we’ve grown into a nationwide leader in tree, shrub, and lawn care services. Unlike companies that focus on removal, our work is rooted in preservation and care.

We are a values-driven organization built on teamwork, integrity, respect, and a relentless commitment to making a positive impact. When you join us, you’ll find a collaborative, competitive, and caring environment where your contributions matter. As we like to say: When you work here, you thrive here.

Physical Requirements

This role requires the ability to climb, work at heights, and safely lift and/or move up to fifty (50) pounds while performing tree care tasks.

Equal Opportunity

SavATree is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace. We are committed to creating a diverse environment where all employees feel valued and respected.


What SavATree employees say

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