Climber Trainee

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.

Responsibilities

• 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, road, 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
• Participate in on-the-job training in 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
• Uphold Arbor Equity’s values of teamwork, safety, respect, and professionalism

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• No prior tree climbing experience required—paid training provided
• Experience in tree care or equipment operation is a plus
• Must be 18 years or older
• Valid driver’s license required
• CDL (preferred) or willingness to obtain a Class B CDL
• Physical ability 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

Benefits

• 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 positively impacts the health and safety of the community
• 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 and short-term disability insurance (employer paid)
• Basic life & AD&D insurance (employer paid)
• 401(k) retirement plan with up to 4% company match
• Flexible insurance options: choose health, dental, and vision plans to fit your needs and budget
• Health Insurance (Cigna Plans): OAP (Open Access Plus), OAP IN, and HDHP (High-Deductible Health Plan) options
• Dental Insurance (Cigna Plans): PPO Low Plan and PPO High Plan options
• Vision Insurance (Cigna Plan): comprehensive coverage for exams, lenses, and frames
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with $250 employer contribution (if enrolled in HDHP) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
• Pre-tax commuter benefits (parking, transit, vanpool)
• Legal assistance plan
• Supplemental coverage options: critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity insurance