Arbor Equity is a leading provider of professional tree care services, dedicated to safety, skill development, and career growth. As a Climber Trainee, you will join a supportive team that values respect, teamwork, and personal advancement. This entry-level role is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors and are eager to learn the arboriculture trade. Starting as a Ground Operator, you will receive paid, hands-on training in climbing, rigging, and tree care techniques, working alongside experienced arborists who are committed to your success. Arbor Equity offers a safe, team-oriented environment with clear pathways for career progression.
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Operate equipment such as chainsaws, chippers, stump grinders, and skid steers safely and efficiently
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Assist climbers by controlling lowering ropes and supplying tools as needed
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Learn and apply arborist knots for rigging, tying, and untying tasks
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Remove limbs, brush, and debris from the worksite to the chipper or trailer
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Help manage pedestrian, road, and sidewalk traffic to ensure a safe jobsite
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Maintain an organized, hazard-free worksite at all times
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Perform routine maintenance and inspections on tools and equipment
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Communicate effectively with crew leaders and team members
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Participate in on-the-job training in tree climbing, rigging, and pruning techniques under guided supervision
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Assist with aerial operations as skills progress
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Follow all company safety protocols, ANSI standards, and training procedures
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Uphold Arbor Equitys values of teamwork, safety, respect, and professionalism
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High school diploma or equivalent
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No prior tree climbing experience requiredpaid training provided
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Experience in tree care or equipment operation is a plus
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Must be 18 years or older
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Valid drivers license required
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CDL (preferred) or willingness to obtain a Class B CDL
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Physical ability to lift, drag, climb, and perform strenuous outdoor work
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Ability to pass a pre-employment physical exam and drug screening
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Willingness to obtain First-Aid/CPR certification upon hire (training provided)
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Comfortable working at heights and outdoors in varying weather conditions
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Willing to work extended or additional hours during peak seasons or storm response
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Paid industry training in climbing, rigging, arborist safety, and equipment operation
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Opportunities for career advancement into Climber, Crew Lead, or Arborist positions
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Supportive team culture focused on safety, respect, and personal development
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Work that positively impacts the health and safety of the community
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Competitive pay with opportunities for 40+ hours per week
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Paid time off (PTO) and holidays for work-life balance
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Overtime opportunities during storm cleanup and peak seasons
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Long-term and short-term disability insurance (employer paid)
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Basic life & AD&D insurance (employer paid)
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401(k) retirement plan with up to 4% company match
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Flexible insurance options: choose health, dental, and vision plans to fit your needs and budget
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Health Insurance (Cigna Plans): OAP (Open Access Plus), OAP IN, and HDHP (High-Deductible Health Plan) options
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Dental Insurance (Cigna Plans): PPO Low Plan and PPO High Plan options
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Vision Insurance (Cigna Plan): comprehensive coverage for exams, lenses, and frames
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Health Savings Account (HSA) with $250 employer contribution (if enrolled in HDHP) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
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Pre-tax commuter benefits (parking, transit, vanpool)
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Legal assistance plan
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Supplemental coverage options: critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance
Offered compensation: $18/yr - $20/yr
- CDL (optional)
- Equipment Operation (optional)
- First-Aid/CPR certification (optional)
- Tree Care (optional)
