Tree Climber

Ballardtree; Seattle, Northern (WA, KY); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Ballard Tree Service in Seattle, WA, is seeking an Arborist Climber to join our experienced field crew. You will climb trees, prune and remove using ropes and gear, operate aerial lifts and chippers, and work closely with crew leads to ensure safety and quality.

ISA Certified Arborist preferred; 1–2 years climbing experience; strong communication and safety mindset; on-site role with opportunities to mentor others and participate in ongoing training.

Qualifications

• ISA Certified Arborist preferred.
• 1–2 years of professional climbing experience.
• Strong communication and safety mindset.

Responsibilities

• Perform tree climbing and pruning/removal tasks using ropes, saddles, and climbing gear
• Operate equipment such as aerial lifts, bucket trucks, and chippers
• Interpret work orders and lead crew in executing all technical aspects of the job
• Provide excellent customer service, including project walk-throughs and regular updates
• Remove dead, damaged, or excess branches using chainsaws, hand saws, and pruning tools
• Support safe rigging practices and equipment hoisting/lowering during tree work
• Diagnose tree health issues (pests, disease) and recommend treatments
• Clean, maintain, and sharpen tools and equipment
• Remove and properly dispose of debris, brush, and wood waste
• Uphold all OSHA, ANSI, and company safety standards; wear required PPE at all times
• Mentor and train new crew members, helping them develop skills and adhere to safety procedures
• Report incidents, equipment issues, or job hazards to Crew Lead immediately
• Participate in weekly safety meetings and ongoing training
• Maintain clean, organized job sites and respect customer property
• Perform other duties as assigned

Job description

Location: Seattle, WA
Employment Type: Full-Time, Regular
Salary: DOE (Depends on Experience)

Ballard Tree Service is a family-owned company proudly serving Seattle since 1990. We are always looking for talented tree climbers and ISA Certified Arborist Climbers to join our growing team. If you’re passionate about tree care, safety, and teamwork — we want to hear from you!

Job Summary:

The Arborist Climber plays a critical role in our field operations, skillfully climbing and working in trees while performing a wide range of tree care tasks. This role requires strong communication, a commitment to safety, and a team-oriented mindset. You’ll work closely with crew leads, project managers, and clients to ensure every job is completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Perform tree climbing and pruning/removal tasks using ropes, saddles, and climbing gear

Operate equipment such as aerial lifts, bucket trucks, and chippers

Interpret work orders and lead crew in executing all technical aspects of the job

Provide excellent customer service, including project walk-throughs and regular updates

Remove dead, damaged, or excess branches using chainsaws, hand saws, and pruning tools

Support safe rigging practices and equipment hoisting/lowering during tree work

Diagnose tree health issues (pests, disease) and recommend treatments

Clean, maintain, and sharpen tools and equipment

Remove and properly dispose of debris, brush, and wood waste

Uphold all OSHA, ANSI, and company safety standards; wear required PPE at all times

Mentor and train new crew members, helping them develop skills and adhere to safety procedures

Report incidents, equipment issues, or job hazards to Crew Lead immediately

Participate in weekly safety meetings and ongoing training

Maintain clean, organized job sites and respect customer property

Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Preferred: ISA Certified Arborist®

1–2 years of professional climbing experience

We look forward to hearing from you — thank you for considering a career with Ballard Tree Service!