Frequently asked questions help answer things like: Are you a high school student considering a career in tree care? Do you as a parent have concerns about your child’s safety working in this industry? Is your job a guidance counselor helping a student consider their options after graduation? Not sure what to do next and you’re a veteran with a DD214 in hand and trying to figure out what your life as a civilian will look like? Are you stuck at a desk job and craving change?

Whatever your reason, somehow you heard about Outside Careers, and you’re doing a little research to figure out if a career in tree care is right for you. We took a stab at answering your biggest questions.

What Does an Arborist Do?

What Does an Arborist Do?

The fact of the matter is, an arborist can do so many different things, so it’s impossible to give you a clear, decisive “job description.” We can tell you that arborists are not loggers or landscapers – yes arborists do need to remove trees when they pose a risk to the public, and arborists have also been known to plant trees. But arborists’ main focus is to save existing trees and help the environment. There are so many different things that arborists can do, whether on the ground or aloft, in the field or at the office. The opportunities are endless. There really is something for everyone!

Is Tree Care Really a Profession?

Many people view tree workers as unskilled laborers. This couldn’t be further from the truth for many arborists in the field! Arborists have opportunities to earn certifications, credentials and licenses in areas such as safety, electrical hazards awareness, pesticides, chainsaw use, chipper use, crane operation and more. Similar to many other professions, continuing professional education is an important aspect of this industry… arborists never stop learning!

Can I Advance My Career in This Profession?

Yes! Everyone has to start somewhere, but as long as you have the passion and persistence to keep moving up in your career, the opportunities to advance in this industry are endless. The best way to advance your career is to keep up your training and stay on top of emerging techniques in the industry. You will work hard, but you can work smart, too.

What Is the Pay Like?

Starting salary in the tree care industry is competitive. Your skills are in demand, and the need for arborists is growing as cities and towns are planting more trees than ever before! As you advance in your career, you will have opportunities to make more money, just like any other profession. Simply put, careers in tree care can be lucrative!

Is This a 9-to-5 Job?

Nope… but that’s not why you’re considering a career in arboriculture, is it? The tree care industry is notorious for long hours, especially during peak summer months. Hours can also be long and unpredictable during storm season for your region. But consider the positive trade-offs: being outdoors, working in an exciting environment, gaining on-the-job skills and experience and more.

What About Safety?

Tree care is an exciting, but potentially dangerous, industry. What most people outside of the industry don’t know is that tree care is safe if you know what you’re doing. The tree care industry promotes industry-wide safety standards to ensure the safest working environment possible. Legitimate tree care companies have extensive training programs in place and have developed safe work practices designed to prevent accidents – after all, accidents are expensive and they’re bad for business! Well-trained individuals can expect a long, healthy career in this industry.

What Is the Best Part of the Job?

These are so many things to love about being an arborist – working outdoors, doing something different every day and giving back to your community are just a few of the many reasons to love this job and make it a career. This is a very rewarding career!