Arborist Tree Climber

DCP ASSOCIATES; Commerce City (CO); On-site; USD 38,572 - 49,593; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Bonus eligibility

Paid time off

Job summary

DCP ASSOCIATES in Commerce City, Colorado, is looking for an Arborist Tree Climber to perform tree care operations, including climbing and pruning. The role requires strong technical skills and adherence to safety and quality standards.

Candidates should have previous experience in arboriculture and strong climbing abilities. Additional benefits include health insurance, a 401(k) with company match, and eligibility for bonuses.

Qualifications

• Strong leading climbing, pruning, and rigging experience.
• Familiarity with safety standards such as ANSI and OSHA.
• Ability to operate climbing equipment and perform outdoor labor.

Responsibilities

• Perform tree care operations including climbing and pruning.
• Plan daily activities and assess job sites for hazards.
• Ensure work meets quality standards and adhere to safety protocols.

Skills

Strong tree climbing skills

Knowledge of tree species

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

Previous experience in arboriculture

Valid driver’s license

ISA Certified Arborist

Tools

Climbing equipment

Aerial lifts

Chippers

Job description

Arborist Tree Climber

DCPS is a commercial property services contractor founded in 2011, providing services to over 1,100 clients. DCPS leverages unparalleled customer service to be the leading, one-stop provider of commercial property services in Colorado. With multiple offices, more than 300 employees, and 7 divisions – Asphalt and Concrete, Waterproofing and Specialty Coatings, Roofing, Snow Removal and Parking Lot Sweeping, Landscaping, and Construction – DCPS provides specialized, integrated service solutions to commercial property owners and managers.

Location: Commerce City, CO

Position Summary

The Arborist Tree Climber is responsible for performing tree care operations including climbing, pruning, and removals to ensure safe, efficient, and high‑quality service delivery. This hands‑on role works closely with leadership and crew members to maintain client landscapes while adhering to industry safety standards. Success in this position is defined by technical skill, safety awareness, and consistent execution of arboricultural best practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate daily tree care activities in collaboration with management and team members
• Assess job sites for hazards and develop safe and effective work plans
• Perform tree pruning, shaping, and removals using rope‑and‑saddle climbing techniques or aerial lifts
• Execute rigging operations and demonstrate knowledge of aerial rescue and advanced climbing techniques
• Ensure all work meets ANSI A300 standards and company safety guidelines
• Follow all safety protocols and contribute to a safe work environment for all crew members
• Conduct pre‑job safety briefings and monitor job sites for potential hazards
• Inspect and maintain climbing gear, ropes, harnesses, and equipment
• Perform routine inspections of trucks, chippers, and aerial lifts
• Communicate professionally with clients, addressing questions and providing updates
• Ensure all work meets quality standards and client expectations
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe job sites upon completion
• Track job details, labor hours, and equipment usage for reporting purposes
• Report safety concerns, incidents, and equipment issues to management

Qualifications

• Previous experience in arboriculture, tree care, or a related field required
• Strong tree climbing, pruning, and rigging experience
• Knowledge of tree species, growth habits, and proper pruning techniques
• Familiarity with ANSI and OSHA safety standards
• Ability to operate and maintain climbing equipment, aerial lifts, trucks, and chippers
• Valid driver’s license required; CDL preferred
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem‑solving skills
• Detail‑oriented with a commitment to safety and quality

Preferred Qualifications

• ISA Certified Arborist or equivalent certification
• Experience with advanced rigging and aerial rescue techniques
• Experience working on commercial or large‑scale tree care projects

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and reach for extended periods
• Ability to perform climbing and aerial work at heights
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, and precipitation

Work Environment

This role is performed primarily outdoors on active job sites and involves exposure to weather, heights, heavy equipment, and physically demanding conditions. Work hours may vary depending on project schedules and seasonal demands.

Compensation

$28.00 – $36.00 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. Bonus eligible.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid short‑term disability
• Paid life insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Company vehicle or mileage reimbursement (position dependent)
• 48 hours PTO

Additional Information

This role requires travel between job sites and maintaining a valid driver’s license.

Employment with DCPS is at‑will and may be terminated by either the employee or the company at any time, with or without cause or notice.

Equal Opportunity Employer

DCPS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are made based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.