If you love working outdoors, have a passion for nature, and enjoy hands-on work, a career in tree care might be the perfect fit. Becoming an arborist or tree care professional offers a rewarding career path that combines physical work with environmental responsibility. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to take your skills to the next level, here’s what you need to know about starting a career in tree care.

What Does a Career In Tree Care Involve?

Tree care professionals play a crucial role in maintaining healthy, safe, and beautiful trees in urban and natural environments. A career in tree care can include:

  • Tree Pruning & Trimming: Removing dead or overgrown branches to improve tree health and safety.
  • Tree Removal: Safely cutting down and removing trees that pose risks to property or public safety.
  • Plant Health Care: Diagnosing and treating tree diseases, pests, and environmental stressors.
  • Climbing & Rigging: Using specialized climbing techniques and equipment to access trees for maintenance or removal.
  • Stump Grinding & Clearing: Removing tree stumps to clear space and prevent regrowth.

Tree care professionals must be comfortable working at heights, using heavy equipment, and following strict safety protocols to prevent injuries and accidents.

Skills & Training Needed To Become An Arborist

While some tree care jobs provide on-the-job training, having a background in forestry, horticulture, or arboriculture can be a great advantage. Essential skills for a successful career in tree care include:

  • Physical Strength & Endurance: Tree work is physically demanding and requires climbing, lifting, and using heavy tools.
  • Knowledge of Tree Biology: Understanding how trees grow, respond to pruning, and deal with stress factors.
  • Climbing & Rigging Skills: Many arborists work at heights using ropes, harnesses, and safety equipment.
  • Problem-Solving & Risk Assessment: Identifying hazards and making safe, efficient decisions.
  • Equipment Operation: Using chainsaws, wood chippers, and other specialized machinery safely and effectively.

If you’re serious about advancing in the field, earning a Certified Arborist credential through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) can open up more opportunities and demonstrate your expertise.

Why Choose a Career In Tree Care?

Tree care isn’t just another job—it’s a career that offers long-term growth, stability, and a connection to the outdoors. Some of the biggest benefits include:

  • Working Outdoors: If you love fresh air and being in nature, this career keeps you outside every day.
  • High Demand for Arborists: Trees always need maintenance, and skilled tree care professionals are in demand year-round.
  • Opportunities for Growth: Start as a ground crew member and work your way up to climber, crew leader, or even a certified arborist.
  • Job Satisfaction: Every day brings a new challenge, whether it’s pruning a massive oak or helping homeowners maintain safe and healthy trees.

Join The Tree Care Inc. Team As a Climber

If you’re looking for a hands-on career with opportunities for growth, Tree Care Inc. is currently hiring climbers in Sacramento and Roseville. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, using specialized equipment, and maintaining the health and safety of trees. As part of our team, you’ll receive a full benefits package, including health, dental, and 401k, with 75% of health and dental costs covered for full-time employees. We also offer paid holidays and sick pay to ensure a strong work-life balance. If you’re ready to take your career to new heights, apply today at Tree Care Inc. Careers.