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Tree Worker Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Tree Climber

Lockport, IL · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Tree Climber - Full Time Department: Homer Tree Care, Inc. Job Summary: The Tree Climber is ... Working conditions sometimes include both high heat and cold temperatures * Familiarity with safe ...

Tree Climber

Northbrook, IL

$21.50 - $29.75/hr

We are seeking experienced Tree Climbers to work safely in the field for our Tree Care division. You will be responsible for tree climbing and assisting Tree Care Crew Leaders in performing all tree ...

Tree Climber

Roselle, IL

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

We are seeking experienced Tree Climbers to work safely in the field for our Tree Care division. You will be responsible for tree climbing and assisting Tree Care Crew Leaders in performing all tree ...

Tree Climber

Wauconda, IL

$20 - $27.50/hr

We are seeking experienced Tree Climbers to work safely in the field for our Tree Care division. You will be responsible for tree climbing and assisting Tree Care Crew Leaders in performing all tree ...

Climber II is an intermediate level climber position responsible for working in trees to perform general tree care including pruning, cabling, bracing, lightning protection, and tree removals.

Tree Climber

Long Grove, IL · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Climber II is an intermediate level climber position responsible for working in trees to perform general tree care including pruning, cabling, bracing, lightning protection, and tree removals.

We are seeking experienced Tree Climbers to work safely in the field for our Tree Care division. You will be responsible for tree climbing and assisting Tree Care Crew Leaders in performing all tree ...

Tree Climber

Chicago, IL

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

We are seeking experienced Tree Climbers to work safely in the field for our Tree Care division. You will be responsible for tree climbing and assisting Tree Care Crew Leaders in performing all tree ...

Crew Lead / Tree Climber

Warrenville, IL

$22 - $30.25/hr

Daily focus is working together on a General Tree Care crew to provide high quality tree care to our clients. The Tree Care Team is involved in all aspects of pruning, removals, cable bracing and ...

Are you currently working in the tree care industry and looking to make a change?Want to work in a culture focused on safety and professionalism?Would you enjoy working for a growing company?As a ...

Are you currently working in the tree care industry and looking to make a change? Want to work in a culture focused on safety and professionalism? Would you enjoy working for a growing company? As a ...

Tree Care Superintendent

Chicago, IL

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

We are seeking a highly motivated Tree Care Superintendent to lead a crew that provides tree care services on high-profile commercial properties. We are looking for a bright, energetic individual ...

Tree Care Superintendent

Roselle, IL

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

We are seeking a highly motivated Tree Care Superintendent to lead a crew that provides tree care services on high-profile commercial properties. We are looking for a bright, energetic individual ...

Showing results 21-40

Tree Worker information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$19

$28

How much do tree worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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:
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.

$23 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position: Tree Climber – Full Time
Department: Homer Tree Care, Inc.
Job Summary: The Tree Climber is responsible for trimming, pruning and tree removal. This may include using various climbing techniques and using equipment such as: chainsaws, stump grinders, woodchippers, and other heavy machinery using safety practices. The Tree Climber is under direct supervision of the Crew Leader. THIS POSITION IS PHYSICALLY DEMANDING.
Duties amp; Responsibilities
  • Ensures proper use of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
  • Identification and use of climbing equipment
  • Performs routine pre-climb and equipment inspections
  • Perform climbing and rigging knots
  • Follow climbing work plan
  • Identifying electrical hazards
  • Utilizes methods of ascending amp; descending trees
  • Identification and use of climbing spurs
  • Performs “tying-in” with roper lanyard and climbing rope
  • Performs a hazard assessment for rigging
  • Demonstrates lowering techniques with and without mechanical
  • Utilizes lowering devices
  • Performs pre-work operational check on all equipment
  • Performs routine vehicle inspections
  • Operates the aerial bucket using lower controls
  • Performs aerial lift maintenance
  • Positions the vehicle and operating outriggers
Qualifications:
  • CDL Class-A, is a plus- potential to earn higher compensation
  • OSHA familiarity/training
  • Valid Driver’s License and clean driving record with no violations
  • Physically Demanding- requires considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials. Must demonstrate flexibility and endurance
  • Able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Able to bend, stand, or sit for long periods of time
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment
  • Effective Communication with supervisors and coworkers
  • Working conditions sometimes include both high heat and cold temperatures
  • Familiarity with safe climbing techniques; ascending, descending, limb walking, work positioning, double crotching, recrotching, use of flip-line, etc
Benefits:
  • Starting pay is $23-28/hr
  • Pay is determined by experience, skill, education, and other factors
  • Able to enroll in benefits after 60-day new hire probation period
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan and employer matching (up to a certain amount) and 100% vesting as soon as contributions are made
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays (6)
Homer Companies is a second-generation, family-owned, full-service tree care company that provides unparalleled services throughout the Midwest. Homer is an EEO Employer, committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation or any other protected characteristic. A great work atmosphere with top pay!
Please direct questions regarding the Tree Climber position to hr@homertree.com.