Arborist Apprentice Program Zero to Hero Career Track

Zohorecruit; Pensacola (FL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO

Professional development assistance

Paid training

Job summary

Tri-State Tree Service in Pensacola, FL offers an Arborist Apprentice Program that takes motivated individuals from no experience to skilled tree care professionals in 18–24 months. You will learn basics, then operate equipment and climb with supervision, progressing to a crew leader role.

The program includes structured mentorship, safety training, and opportunities to earn industry certifications. Expect outdoor work in varying weather and a focus on safety and hands-on learning.

Qualifications

• Must be 18+ with strong work ethic and can-do attitude.
• Physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weather.
• Unrestricted driver’s license with clean record.
• Willing to learn and follow safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Assist with tree removals, pruning, and debris management.
• Support climbers and operators with rigging and materials.
• Operate chainsaws, chippers, and specialized equipment under supervision.
• Maintain organized job sites and ensure customer satisfaction.

Skills

Strong work ethic

Physically fit

Willing to learn

Driver's license

Tools

Chainsaw operation

Chipper operation

Rigging

Job description

JOB OVERVIEW

Ready to build a real career without college debt? Tri-State Tree Service's Arborist Apprentice Program transforms motivated individuals from zero experience to skilled tree care professionals in 18-24 months. This isn't just another job - it's your pathway to a high-paying skilled trade with unlimited growth potential. We'll teach you everything from groundwork to advanced climbing and equipment operation.

YOUR CAREER PATH - ZERO TO HERO

Months 1-6: Groundsman - Master fundamentals: debris handling, chainsaw operation, safety protocols

Months 7-12: Equipment Operator - Operate bucket trucks, stump grinders, advanced rigging

Months 13-18: Climber Specialist - Master rope systems, aerial operations, advanced pruning

Months 19-24: Crew Leader - Lead teams, manage projects, train apprentices

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Learning & Development

• Structured training with Master Arborist mentorship
• Master safety protocols and ANSI/OSHA compliance
• Learn tree biology, species identification, and proper care techniques
• Develop equipment operation skills from hand tools to heavy machinery

Hands-On Experience

• Assist with tree removals, pruning, and debris management
• Support climbers and operators with rigging and materials
• Operate chainsaws, chippers, and specialized equipment under supervision
• Maintain organized job sites and ensure customer satisfaction

Professional Growth

• Set and achieve monthly skill development goals
• Participate in safety meetings and continuous education
• Build leadership skills through mentoring newer apprentices
• Earn industry certifications and specialized credentials

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• 18+ years old with strong work ethic and "can-do" attitude
• Motivated to build long-term career
• Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in all weather
• Willing to learn, take direction, and continuously improve
• Unrestricted driver's license with clean record

Pre-Employment Requirements:

This position requires successful completion of pre-employment screening, including but not limited to: background verification, and motor vehicle record review. Employment is contingent upon satisfactory results of all required screenings. Candidates unable to meet these requirements should not apply.

No Experience Required - We'll Teach Everything!

Physical Requirements

• Comfortable working at heights
• Good vision, hearing, and physical coordination

WHAT MAKES THIS DIFFERENT

• Master Arborist personal mentorship
• Structured 18-24 month progression with clear milestones
• Industry certifications and training paid by company
• Guaranteed advancement for successful completion
• Earn from day one - no unpaid training
• PTO and professional development assistance

Schedule:

M-F with occasional weekend emergency work

ABOUT TRI-STATE TREE SERVICE

For 30+ years, Tri-State Tree Service has been excellence in tree care, serving Pensacola, FL. As a TCIA accredited company, we're among less than 1% with this prestigious certification.

Ready to trade a dead-end job for a skilled career? No college required!

*All offers of employment are conditional pending satisfactory completion of required pre-employment screenings in accordance with company policy and applicable law.