Tree Trimmers and Pruners
Using sophisticated climbing and rigging techniques, cut away dead or excess branches from trees or shrubs to maintain right-of-way for roads, sidewalks, or utilities, or to improve appearance, health, and value of tree. Prune or treat trees or shrubs using handsaws, hand pruners, clippers, and power pruners. Works off the ground in the tree canopy and may use truck-mounted lifts.
Common Job Titles
- Arborist
- Groundsman
- Tree Climber
- Tree Trimmer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeAssess tree health, structural integrity, and branch removal requirements through field inspections to determine appropriate pruning techniques and safety hazards.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate work site conditions and environmental hazards to ensure compliance with public safety and utility clearance standards.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform tree trimming and pruning operations using chainsaws, power pruners, and hand tools in tree canopies and elevated positions, following safety protocols.Developing
- Hands-onOperate truck-mounted lifts, bucket trucks, and boom trucks to access elevated work areas while maintaining right-of-way clearances.Developing
- Hands-onExecute sophisticated climbing and rigging techniques using climbing saddles, ropes, carabiners, and safety lanyards to position for pruning work.Developing
- KnowledgeApply knowledge of mechanical equipment operation and maintenance to control brush chippers, stump chippers, and power saws during tree care operations.Developing
- MindsetEngage with property owners and utility customers to explain tree care procedures and address service-related concerns.Developing
- KnowledgeApply critical thinking and problem-solving techniques to determine optimal branch removal sequences and prevent property or infrastructure damage.Developing
- Hands-onPerform equipment maintenance and repair on chainsaws, pruners, and hydraulic tools to ensure operational readiness and prevent equipment failure during field operations.Developing
- KnowledgeApply crew coordination and time management skills to schedule work activities and organize tasks across multiple job sites.Developing
- MindsetSupport team safety culture and training initiatives by instructing crew members on proper climbing, rigging, and equipment operation techniques.Developing
- KnowledgeApply production planning and quality control standards to monitor work processes and ensure tree care meets aesthetic and horticultural objectives.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Tree Trimmers and Pruners (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
47,870
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $37,660. 25th percentile: U.S. $43,690. 50th percentile: U.S. $50,430. 75th percentile: U.S. $63,130. 90th percentile: U.S. $78,900. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $37,660 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $78,900 |
| Workers on average earn | $54,970 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service3.6/5
- Mechanical3.3/5
- Public Safety and Security2.9/5
- Production and Processing2.8/5
- Transportation2.7/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
Tools & Equipment
- Agricultural augers
- Boom trucks
- Brush chippers
- Brush trucks
- Bucket trucks
- Bypass pruners
- Cargo trailers
- Chemical mixers