Arborist

AKA: Lumberjack

Holland Code:

Build

In this job, you get to work with trees that are over a hundred years old. Living history is a very special thing!

Josh Klassen

In A Nutshell

I help keep trees on farms and woodlots healthy to support biodiversity.

I climb trees to trim and care for them, or safely remove them if needed.

I check trees for signs of disease or poor health and decide if they should be treated or removed.

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Potential Salary Range

$16.00 - 30.00 Hourly

Which provinces would this job be in?

Alberta

British Columbia

Manitoba

New Brunswick

Newfoundland & Labrador

Nova Scotia

Ontario

PEI

Prince Edward Island

Quebec

I work in many different places, traveling to visit customers and take care of trees. I spend a lot of time up in the trees, pruning and making sure they stay healthy. There’s also paperwork and emails to handle, but I love being outdoors and helping trees grow strong.

Workplace

Outdoor

Job Requirements & Duties

Examine trees to check their age, health, and what care they need
Use knowledge of trees to spot insects or diseases that could harm them
Help property owners decide what actions to take to keep trees safe and healthy
Climb trees to remove dangerous limbs or areas
Operate equipment like chippers, stump grinders, and aerial lifts safely
Prepare bills, invoices, and manage budgets for tree care work

Education & Training

A college diploma or university degree in arboriculture or forestry is usually needed. Hands-on experience working with an experienced arborist is also important.
Certification from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) allows you to officially call yourself an arborist.

Job Outlook

Some provinces, like BC, Ontario, and New Brunswick, have a strong demand for arborists and good job opportunities.

Related School Subjects

Science

Ed. Prof. et Tech.

Career Education

What words come to mind when thinking about this career?

Trees Forestry Climbing Lumber

Important Skills

Physical

I climb trees, operate equipment like chainsaws, and handle heavy materials. The work is physically demanding but rewarding.

Analytical Thinking

I examine trees closely to diagnose problems like disease or pests and decide on the best care or treatment to keep them healthy.

Resilience

Working outdoors and with nature means adapting to changing weather and conditions. I stay flexible and keep focused to solve problems.

Customer Service

I listen carefully and communicate clearly so clients feel confident that their trees and property are in good hands.

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The Best Things About This Job Are…

Helps Others

Independent Work

Opportunity to Travel

Seasonality

Improves and Protects the Environment

References

AITC Canada

Disclaimer

All career information has been gathered from a variety of sources and compiled to provide a general idea as to what each career could entail. Agriculture in the Classroom Canada is committed to doing our best to ensure the information is current and reliable. However, we will not be liable for the accuracy of the information. Please contact us if you notice errors or would like to provide feedback.