Climber Trainee

Join a Team Focused on Safety, Skill, and Growth

Arbor Equity is seeking motivated individuals to join our crew as a Climber Trainee. This entry-level position is perfect for those who enjoy working outdoors, value safety, and want to build a long-term career in the arboriculture industry.

As a Climber Trainee, you will begin as a Ground Operator, supporting daily tree care operations while receiving on-the-job training in climbing, rigging, and professional tree care techniques. You’ll work alongside experienced arborists who will help you grow your skills, confidence, and industry knowledge.

We’re committed to providing a safe, supportive, and team-oriented work environment where you can advance professionally.

Responsibilities

Ground Operations & Support

• Operate equipment such as chainsaws, chippers, stump grinders, and skid steers safely and efficiently.
• Assist climbers by controlling lowering ropes and supplying tools as needed.
• Learn and apply arborist knots for rigging, tying, and untying tasks.
• Remove limbs, brush, and debris from the worksite to the chipper or trailer.
• Help manage pedestrian, roads, and sidewalk traffic to ensure a safe jobsite.
• Maintain an organized, hazard-free worksite at all times.
• Perform routine maintenance and inspections on tools and equipment.
• Communicate effectively with crew leaders and team members.

Climber Training & Development

• Learn tree climbing, rigging, and pruning techniques under guided supervision.
• Assist with aerial operations as skills progress.
• Follow all company safety protocols, ANSI standards, and training procedures.
• Represent Arbor Equity’s values of teamwork, safety, respect, and professionalism.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in tree care or equipment operation preferred, but no tree climbing experience required—paid training provided.
• Must be 18 years or older.
• Valid driver’s license required; ability to maintain a clean driving record.
• CDL (preferred) or willingness to obtain a Class B CDL.
• Physical fitness to lift, drag, climb, and perform strenuous outdoor work.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment physical exam and drug screening.
• Willingness to obtain First-Aid/CPR certification upon hire (training provided).
• Comfortable working at heights and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Willing to work extended or additional hours during peak seasons or storm response.

Why Join Arbor Equity?

• Paid industry training in climbing, rigging, arborist safety, and equipment operation
• Opportunities for career advancement into Climber, Crew Lead, or Arborist positions
• Supportive team culture focused on safety, respect, and personal development
• Work that has a meaningful impact on the health and safety of the community

Benefits

Employees who work 30+ hours per week are considered full-time and become eligible for our benefits after just 30 days of employment.

• Competitive pay with opportunities for 40+ hours per week
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays for work-life balance
• Overtime opportunities during storm cleanup and peak seasons
• Long-term disability insurance (employer paid)
• Short-term disability insurance (employer paid)
• Basic life & AD&D insurance (employer paid)
• 401(k) retirement plan with up to 4% company match to help you save for the future
• Flexible Insurances Options: Employees can choose the health, dental, and vision plans that best fit their needs and budget, giving control over premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

Health Insurance (Cigna Plans): Employees can choose the plan that works best for them and their families:

• Cigna OAP (Open Access Plus) – broad provider access
• Cigna OAP IN – in-network focused, lower out-of-pocket costs
• Cigna HDHP (High-Deductible Health Plan) – lower premiums with HSA compatibility

Dental Insurance (Cigna Plans): Flexible options to fit coverage needs and budget:

• 2025 Cigna Dental PPO Low Plan – basic coverage at a lower premium
• 2025 Cigna Dental PPO High Plan – enhanced coverage with higher benefits

Vision Insurance (Cigna Plan):

• 2025 Cigna Vision Plan – comprehensive coverage for exams, lenses, and frames

Additional Optional Benefits

• The option of a Health Savings Account (HSA) with $250 employer contribution if on a High-Deductible Health Plan, or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for health, dental/vision, and dependent care.
• Pre-tax commuter benefits (parking, transit, vanpool)
• Legal assistance plan
• Supplemental coverage options: critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance