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Tree Worker Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

SavATree LLC

Tree Climber-Tree Care

Warrenville, IL

$22 - $30.25/hr

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 ...

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Tree Worker information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$19

$28

How much do tree worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree worker in Chicago, IL is $19.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.54 and $21.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Tree Workers often face challenges such as working at heights, handling heavy equipment, and navigating unpredictable outdoor conditions. Safety is a primary concern, so workers are trained extensively in proper use of climbing gear, chainsaws, and personal protective equipment. Teamwork is essential, as tasks like tree removal or pruning require close coordination and clear communication with ground crew and supervisors to ensure everyone's safety. Employers usually provide ongoing safety training and opportunities to gain advanced certifications, helping Tree Workers stay prepared and advance in their careers.

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

To thrive as a Tree Worker, you need knowledge of arboriculture, tree biology, and safe equipment operation, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with chainsaws, climbing gear, wood chippers, and certifications like ISA Certified Arborist are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for safety and efficiency. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining safety standards, protecting property, and ensuring healthy tree care.

What is the difference between Tree Worker vs Arborist?

AspectTree WorkerArborist
CertificationsTypically OSHA safety training, sometimes industry-specificCertified Arborist credential (ISA), advanced safety and pruning certifications
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, on trees, in various weather conditionsOutdoor, often involves consulting, pruning, and tree health assessments
Job ResponsibilitiesClimbing, pruning, cutting, and removal of treesTree care, pruning, disease diagnosis, and consulting

While both Tree Workers and Arborists work outdoors and handle tree-related tasks, Tree Workers primarily focus on physical tree climbing, cutting, and removal. Arborists often have specialized certifications and perform more consultative and health assessments. The roles overlap in work environment and safety requirements, but Arborists typically possess advanced knowledge and credentials.

What is a tree worker?

Tree workers, also known as arborists or tree care professionals, are individuals trained to maintain, prune, remove, and care for trees and shrubs. Their work involves tasks like trimming branches, diagnosing tree health, removing hazardous trees, and sometimes planting new trees. Tree workers use specialized equipment and must follow safety protocols due to the physical risks involved in their job. They play a key role in maintaining the health and safety of urban and rural landscapes.
What are popular job titles related to Tree Worker jobs in Chicago, IL? For Tree Worker jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tree Worker jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Tree Worker jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Tree Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tree Worker job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,850 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Climbing Arborist Crew Leader | Crystal Lake, IL

The Davey Tree Expert Company

Crystal Lake, IL

$24 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Davey Tree rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Davey Tree

Based on 101 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6.7

Company rating compared to similar companies: 6.7 out of 10

Gardening and landscaping average

Based on 1,042 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Company: The Davey Tree Expert Company  
Locations: Crystal Lake, IL  
Additional Locations: NA 
Work Site: On Site   
Req ID: 227106 

Position Overview

Directs crew members and equipment and plans and executes assigned work or tasks by performing the following duties:

Job Duties

What You’ll Do: 

  • Climb Trees! Davey offers both DdRT/MRS and SRT/SRS climbing systems. 
  • Safely and productively lead a crew in providing arboricultural care for our clients.  
  • Including but not limited to:  
  • Jobsite Hazards, Obstacles, Plan, Equipment (H.O.P.E) process 
  • Pruning, thinning and removing deadwood throughout the tree canopy 
  • Installation of cables, bracing and lightning protection systems  
  • Removal of hazardous trees 
  • Mentor crew members through the Davey Career Development Program. 
  • Properly maintain, prepare and operate all tools and equipment including chainsaws, chippers, aerial lifts and more.
Qualifications

What We’re Looking for: 

  • Love of the outdoors 
  • Ability to complete the Davey Tree Trimmer Orientation Program upon hire 
  • Ability to complete the Davey Tree First Aid, CPR and defensive driving course upon hire  
  • Preferred: Relevant pesticide and related licenses and certificates 
  • Preferred: ISA Certified Arborist ®, ISA Certified Tree Worker ®, and/or TCIA Certified Tree Care Safety Professional ®
  • CDL B or greater is a plus, but not required
Additional Information

What We Offer: * 

  • Paid time off and paid holidays 
  • Opportunities for advancement 
  • All job specific equipment and safety gear provided 
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match 
  • Employee-owned company & discounted stock purchase options 
  • Group Health Plan 
  • Employee referral bonus program 
  • Locations throughout US in major cities and desirable areas 
  • Career Development Program supported by Industry Expert Safety Specialists & Skills Trainers 
  • Scholarship Program for Children of Employees 
  • Charitable matching gift program 
  • Starting pay rate is $24 to $30 per hour

*all listed benefits available to eligible employees 

Company Overview
Divisional Overview

The Davey Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected class, including race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, marital or familial status, disability, status as a protected veteran, status as an Aboriginal or Indigenous person, or other classification protected by law.

The Davey Tree Expert Company provides research-driven tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental consulting for residential, utility, commercial and environmental partners in the U.S. and Canada. We care about our clients, each other and the world around us. We offer the resources, size and stability of a big company while maintaining the culture, entrepreneurial spirit and feel of a small one. We invest in our employees by offering industry-leading training, technology and benefits that lead to a rewarding and safe work experience at all levels. Wherever you want to grow your career, there’s a place for you at Davey. To learn more, visit Davey.com.

Accommodations: If requested by employee or otherwise as required by law, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

If you need assistance at any time, please contact us at 1-877-411-7601 or at Recruiting@davey.com.

Employment Type: Permanent 
Job Type: Full Time 
Travel Expectations: Up to 25% 

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