How to Find a Job as a Certified Arborist

 If you love the outdoors, care deeply about the environment, and want a hands-on career with real-world impact, becoming a certified arborist might be the path for you. Arborists are trained professionals who manage and care for trees, ensuring their health, safety, and integration into urban environments.

Whether you’re drawn to environmental work, landscaping, or city planning, arboriculture offers a blend of science, nature, and skilled labor.

What Does a Certified Arborist Do?

Arborists are often described as “tree doctors.” They diagnose tree health problems, recommend treatments, and safely prune or remove trees when needed. Common responsibilities include:

• Evaluating tree health and risk

• Pruning or trimming for safety and aesthetics

• Removing diseased or dangerous trees

• Planting and selecting appropriate tree species

• Managing trees in urban spaces or on private property

• Consulting for city parks, golf courses, campuses, or development projects

What Skills and Qualifications Are Needed?

• Knowledge of plant biology and tree diseases

• Physical stamina and comfort working outdoors and at heights

• Safety training (chainsaw use, climbing, rigging, etc.)

• Communication skills (especially if advising clients or city officials)

• ISA Certification (International Society of Arboriculture) is often required or preferred

• First aid and CPR certification is often necessary for field safety

How to Become a Certified Arborist

1. Gain experience: Most certification programs require at least 3 years of field experience or equivalent education.

2. Study for certification: The ISA offers a globally recognized credential. Training programs and study guides are available online.

3. Pass the ISA exam: Includes topics like tree biology, pruning, soil management, and safety.

4. Stay certified: Continuing education is required to maintain your credentials.

5. Specialize if you wish: Consider specialties like tree risk assessment, municipal arboriculture, or utility forestry.

Where to Find Arborist Jobs

Check these sites for arboriculture and environmental jobs:

1. ClickClickJobs.com — Includes outdoor and environmental roles including arborist jobs.

2. TreeCareJobs.com — A niche board for tree care and climbing jobs.

3. ISA Job Board — Hosted by the International Society of Arboriculture.

4. Conservation Job Board — Great for nature-related roles in public and nonprofit sectors.

5. Indeed — Search for local or contract arborist positions with tree services and municipalities.

Tips to Succeed

• Prioritize safety: Tree care is rewarding but can be hazardous without the proper protocols.

• Keep learning: Stay current on diseases, pest management, and new arboricultural techniques.

• Network locally: Tree services and landscaping companies often hire through referrals.

• Document your work: Before-and-after photos of pruning, removals, or urban plantings can build credibility.

• Love trees: Passion goes a long way in this line of work!

Final Thoughts

Being a certified arborist is more than just a job — it’s a way to make a positive impact on the environment, one tree at a time. You’ll blend physical activity, science, and service, helping communities and ecosystems stay healthy and beautiful. Start building experience, prepare for certification, and find roles through ClickClickJobs.com and the ISA Job Board.