Tree trimmers and pruners are responsible for maintaining trees in a safe, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing condition. Their job description typically includes tasks such as pruning branches, removing damaged or dead limbs, shaping trees for design or safety reasons, and assessing tree health. They may also operate equipment like chainsaws, wood chippers, and bucket trucks to reach high branches safely. Additionally, they need to follow safety procedures and regulations to prevent accidents and damage to property or trees.
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $36,150.00 |
25th percentile | $36,790.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $45,100.00 |
75th percentile | $48,090.00 |
90th percentile | $53,720.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $17.38 |
25th percentile | $17.69 |
median (50th percentile) | $21.68 |
75th percentile | $23.12 |
90th percentile | $25.83 |
Tree trimmers and pruners typically need a high school diploma or equivalent to enter the field. While formal education beyond this is not mandatory, completing courses in arboriculture, horticulture, or forestry can be advantageous for career advancement. Many gain practical skills through on-the-job training or apprenticeships, where they learn about tree biology, safe climbing techniques, proper tool use, and pruning methods. Certification programs are also available for those looking to demonstrate their expertise and enhance job prospects. Overall, a formal college degree is not required for tree trimmers and pruners, but relevant education and training are essential for success in the field.