How to Become a Tree Trimmers and Pruner in 2026
Median salary: $50,430 · +3.3% projected growth (2024–2034)
What does a Tree Trimmers and Pruner do?
Using sophisticated climbing and rigging techniques, cut away dead or excess branches from trees or shrubs to maintain right-of-way for roads, sidewalks, or utilities, or to improve appearance, health, and value of tree. Prune or treat trees or shrubs using handsaws, hand pruners, clippers, and power pruners. Works off the ground in the tree canopy and may use truck-mounted lifts.
Tree Trimmers and Pruner Salary in 2026
The median annual salary for Tree Trimmers and Pruners is $50,430. The bottom 10% earn around $37,660 while the top 10% earn over $78,900.
| Experience level | Annual salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (P10) | $37,660 |
| Early career (P25) | $43,690 |
| Median | $50,430 |
| Experienced (P75) | $63,130 |
| Top earners (P90) | $78,900 |
Highest-paying metros
Tree Trimmers and Pruner salary by state
| State | Median salary |
|---|---|
| Alaskatop | $84,740 |
| Minnesota | $68,030 |
| Illinois | $64,550 |
| Rhode Island | $64,240 |
| Oregon | $63,290 |
| California | $62,880 |
| New York | $62,180 |
| Washington | $61,750 |
| New Jersey | $61,660 |
| Hawaii | $60,580 |
| Vermont | $60,320 |
| Massachusetts | $60,130 |
| New Hampshire | $57,830 |
| Maine | $57,820 |
| Utah | $53,900 |
| North Dakota | $51,490 |
| New Mexico | $50,690 |
| Colorado | $49,920 |
| Montana | $49,860 |
| Nevada | $49,680 |
| Florida | $49,490 |
| South Dakota | $49,430 |
| Pennsylvania | $49,280 |
| Virginia | $49,090 |
| Wyoming | $48,680 |
| Wisconsin | $48,510 |
| South Carolina | $48,240 |
| Michigan | $48,070 |
| West Virginia | $47,960 |
| Ohio | $47,800 |
| Connecticut | $47,330 |
| Missouri | $46,860 |
| Arizona | $46,650 |
| Mississippi | $46,630 |
| Indiana | $46,280 |
| Tennessee | $45,890 |
| Maryland | $45,710 |
| North Carolina | $44,740 |
| Kansas | $44,640 |
| Oklahoma | $44,500 |
| Georgia | $41,730 |
| Idaho | $41,710 |
| Iowa | $41,330 |
| Texas | $40,030 |
| Kentucky | $39,830 |
| Alabama | $39,600 |
| Louisiana | $38,950 |
| Arkansas | $37,830 |
| Nebraska | $37,220 |
How to earn more as a Tree Trimmers and Pruner
The salary range for Tree Trimmers and Pruners spans $41,240 — from $37,660 at entry level to $78,900 for top earners. The highest-paying metro area is Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA at $78,920 — $28,490 above the national median. Union membership, additional certifications, and supervisory experience are the most reliable paths to higher earnings in this field.
How to get there
Typical education: High school diploma or equivalent
On-the-job training: Short-term on-the-job training
Starting from high school
- Complete on-the-job training (short-term on-the-job training)
- Earn industry-recognized certifications (industry-recognized certifications)
- Complete OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour safety certification ($25–$200)
- Gain 1–2 years of supervised work experience
- Advance to journeyman level or specialized role
Most entry-level positions provide on-the-job training. Look for apprenticeship programs through unions, trade associations, or the Department of Labor's ApprenticeshipUSA program. Community colleges and vocational schools offer certificate programs that can be completed in 6–12 months. OSHA safety certifications are widely valued and often required.
Many employers provide paid training. Union apprenticeships are typically paid from day one. Trade school programs may require tuition.
Switching from another career
- Assess which of your existing skills transfer (many do — see below)
- Complete a short certification or orientation program (industry-recognized certifications)
- Apply for entry-level or apprentice positions — highlight transferable skills
- Complete any required on-the-job training (often shortened for experienced workers)
- Advance faster than new entrants using your professional experience
Career changers are in demand across this field. Your existing professional skills — problem-solving, communication, time management, and work ethic — are valued by employers even if your technical skills are new. Many organizations offer orientation programs or short certification courses designed specifically for career changers. Contact industry associations, local unions, or community colleges for programs in your area.
Certification costs are typically self-funded, but some employers reimburse. Union programs are paid positions.
Already working in another career?
See how your skills transfer to Tree Trimmers and Pruner — free. PathScorer maps your experience against the requirements and shows you what you already qualify for.
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The Tree Trimmers and Pruner role has a moderate AI exposure score. Some tasks may be augmented by AI tools, but the core role remains human-driven.
See full AI risk breakdownRelated careers to consider
Based on skill overlap analysis — these occupations share core competencies with Tree Trimmers and Pruner.
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SOC: 37-3013.00 · Data: O*NET 29.1, BLS OEWS 2024, BLS Employment Projections 2024–2034