Climber Trainee

Air Comfort, Inc; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 34,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid training

Career growth

Health benefits

401(k) plan

PTO & holidays

Disability insurance

Job summary

Arbor Equity is seeking a Climber Trainee/Ground Operator for paid, hands‑on training in climbing, rigging, and tree care. You’ll work with experienced arborists in a safety‑driven, team‑oriented environment that emphasizes personal growth and career progression.

Starting in ground operations, you’ll learn techniques while contributing to safe, efficient job sites. This entry‑level role offers paid training, overtime opportunities, and benefits as you develop arboriculture skills.

Qualifications

• Entry-level position with paid training in climbing and rigging.
• Must be 18+; valid driver’s license; CDL preferred or willing to obtain.
• Experience in tree care or equipment operation is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate equipment such as chainsaws, chippers, stump grinders, and skid steers.
• Assist climbers by managing lowering ropes and providing necessary tools.
• Learn and apply arborist knots for rigging and related tasks.
• Remove limbs, brush, and debris from the worksite to designated areas.
• Help manage pedestrian, road, and sidewalk traffic to maintain a safe jobsite.
• Maintain an organized and hazard‑free worksite at all times.
• Perform routine maintenance and inspections on tools and equipment.
• Communicate effectively with crew leaders and team members.
• Participate in on-the-job training in tree climbing, rigging, and pruning techniques under supervision.
• Assist with aerial operations as skills develop.
• Follow all company safety protocols, ANSI standards, and training procedures.
• Uphold Arbor Equity’s values of teamwork, safety, respect, and professionalism

Skills

Outdoor work

Teamwork

Safety-conscious

Physical stamina

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Chainsaw operation

Rigging equipment

Lifting/rigging handling

Job description

Arbor Equity is a trusted leader in professional tree care services, known for its commitment to safety, skill development, and career advancement. As a Climber Trainee, you will be part of a supportive and respectful team that values teamwork and personal growth. This entry‑level position is perfect for individuals who enjoy working outdoors and are eager to learn the arboriculture trade. Starting as a Ground Operator, you will receive paid, hands‑on training in climbing, rigging, and tree care techniques, working closely with experienced arborists dedicated to your success. Arbor Equity offers a safe, team‑oriented environment with clear opportunities for career progression, making it an excellent place to start and grow your career in tree care.

Responsibilities

• Safely and efficiently operate equipment such as chainsaws, chippers, stump grinders, and skid steers
• Assist climbers by managing lowering ropes and providing necessary tools
• Learn and apply arborist knots for rigging and related tasks
• Remove limbs, brush, and debris from the worksite to designated areas
• Help manage pedestrian, road, and sidewalk traffic to maintain a safe jobsite
• Maintain an organized and hazard‑free worksite at all times
• Perform routine maintenance and inspections on tools and equipment
• Communicate effectively with crew leaders and team members
• Participate in on-the-job training in tree climbing, rigging, and pruning techniques under supervision
• Assist with aerial operations as skills develop
• Follow all company safety protocols, ANSI standards, and training procedures
• Uphold Arbor Equity’s values of teamwork, safety, respect, and professionalism

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• No prior tree climbing experience required—paid training provided
• Experience in tree care or equipment operation is a plus
• Must be 18 years or older
• Valid driver’s license required
• CDL (preferred) or willingness to obtain a Class B CDL
• Physical ability to lift, drag, climb, and perform strenuous outdoor work
• 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 to work extended or additional hours during peak seasons or storm response

Benefits

• Paid industry training in climbing, rigging, arborist safety, and equipment operation
• Opportunities for career advancement into Climber, Crew Lead, or Arborist positions
• Supportive team culture focused on safety, respect, and personal development
• Work that positively impacts the health and safety of the community
• Competitive pay with opportunities for 40+ hours per week
• 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 insurance options: choose health, dental, and vision plans to fit your needs and budget
• Health Insurance (Cigna Plans): OAP (Open Access Plus), OAP IN, and HDHP (High-Deductible Health Plan) options
• Dental Insurance (Cigna Plans): PPO Low Plan and PPO High Plan options
• Vision Insurance (Cigna Plan): comprehensive coverage for exams, lenses, and frames
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with $250 employer contribution (if enrolled in HDHP) 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