Tree Surgeon (Arborist)
PrintWork Tasks
TREE SURGEONS (ARBORISTS) select, plant, and care for trees and shrubs. Tree surgeons (arborists) help protect the environment and improve communities by taking care of the trees. Commercial tree surgeons (arborists) work for homeowners, power companies, and government agencies. They prune ornamental and shade trees. Arborists also help planners and developers protect trees on construction sites. Municipal tree surgeons (arborists) work with trees and woody plants along streets, in parks, and on the grounds of public buildings. Utility tree surgeons (arborists) deal with the maintenance of trees near power lines to prevent power outages.
Salary, Size & Growth
- $39,000 average per year ($18.75 per hour)
- A medium occupation (37,500 workers in 2010)
- Expected to grow rapidly (2.6% per year)
Entry Requirements
Most employers provide on-the-job training for entry-level TREE SURGEONS (ARBORISTS). Technical schools, vocational schools, and community colleges offer some programs. Many four-year colleges and universities have programs in arboriculture and related programs such as forestry, horticulture, plant science, pest management, and natural resources. Voluntary certification for tree surgeons is offered through the International Society of Arboriculture throughout the US, Canada, and Mexico. All users of dangerous pesticides must be certified by their state or be supervised by persons who are certified.