Apprentice Tree Climber

Truetimber Arborists; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO

Holidays

Overtime opportunities

Disability insurance

Life & AD&D insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Health, dental, and vision insurance

HSA contributions/FSA options

Pre-tax commuter benefits

Legal assistance plan

Supplemental coverage options

Job summary

Truetimber in Richmond, VA is seeking an ambitious Apprentice Tree Climber with a CDL to join our outdoor-facing team. This entry-level role offers hands-on training from experienced arborists, a chance to learn climbing, rigging, and pruning techniques, and a path toward professional advancement.

As a valued team member, you will help keep job sites safe and efficient, support ground operations, and represent our core values of Drive, Respect, and Loyalty while delivering high-quality service

Qualifications

• No prior tree climbing experience required; paid training provided.
• Must be 18+ and hold a valid CDL.
• Virginia driver's license and ability to pass pre-employment physical and drug screening.
• Willing to obtain First-Aid/CPR certification upon hire.
• Comfortable outdoors in varying weather conditions and heights.
• Able to work overtime during peak seasons.

Responsibilities

• Learn and apply tree climbing, rigging, and pruning techniques under the guidance of experienced crew members
• Assist with ground support tasks, including debris handling, equipment care, and site cleanup
• Maintain a clean and safe job site by following all safety protocols and company procedures
• Operate tools and equipment safely and responsibly
• Communicate effectively with teammates and crew leaders to ensure smooth daily operations
• Contribute to team productivity and customer satisfaction by working efficiently and professionally
• Represent Truetimber's core values of Drive, Respect, and Loyalty on every job

Skills

Safety minded

Stamina

Teamwork

Willingness to learn

Height/work at heights

Job description

Truetimber, a well-established leader in tree care services based in Richmond, VA, is looking for a motivated Apprentice Tree Climber with a CDL to join its growing team. This entry-level opportunity is perfect for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, value safety, and are eager to learn the skills of professional tree climbing and arboriculture. As an Apprentice Tree Climber, you will receive hands‑on training from experienced professionals, contribute to the health and safety of trees and properties in the community, and become part of a company that values drive, respect, and loyalty. Truetimber offers a supportive work environment, clear opportunities for advancement, and a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees.

Responsibilities

• Learn and apply tree climbing, rigging, and pruning techniques under the guidance of experienced crew members
• Assist with ground support tasks, including debris handling, equipment care, and site cleanup
• Maintain a clean and safe job site by following all safety protocols and company procedures
• Operate tools and equipment safely and responsibly
• Communicate effectively with teammates and crew leaders to ensure smooth daily operations
• Contribute to team productivity and customer satisfaction by working efficiently and professionally
• Represent Truetimber's core values of Drive, Respect, and Loyalty on every job

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older
• Valid CDL required
• Valid Virginia Driver's License
• 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 and able to work additional hours during peak seasons or weather-related situations
• No prior tree climbing experience required—paid training provided

Benefits

• Full-time employees (30+ hours/week) are eligible for benefits after 30 days
• 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 health, dental, and vision insurance options through Cigna, allowing employees to choose plans that fit their needs and budget
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with $250 employer contribution (for those on a high-deductible health plan) 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