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As you explore how to become an arborist, it’s important to take certain considerations into account in order to set yourself up for long-term success.
In this article, you’ll discover how to become an arborist who’s:
By the end of this article, you’ll explore how to become an arborist who’s prepared for anything that comes your way!
In short, an arborist is a trained professional who tackles the art and science of planting, caring, maintaining and diagnosing trees, shrubs, and other woody plants.
Often synonymous with “tree surgeon,” arborists do things like:
In addition, arborists offer specialty services, such as:
There are many reasons why many arborists choose this profession.
In order to decide if discovering how to become an arborist is right for you, take a look at a few of the key personality traits of the typical arborist:
Plus, the average arborist makes about $23.07 per hour, and the average base salary is $76,084 per year.
However, keep in mind these wages will widely vary based on your location, experience, and certifications.
Also, the conservation scientists and foresters industry as a whole is expected to grow by 4% in 2032.
Take a look at how to become an arborist with long-term success using these essential simple steps:
At a minimum, most businesses will expect you to have a highschool diploma, GED, or some other equivalent.
While it’s not required to have an associates or bachelor’s degree, a degree in arboriculture, horticulture, landscape architecture, environmental science, urban forestry, or another related field is preferred.
Plus, having any level of degree in this field will help you to stand out from other arborists applying for positions as well as earn a higher wage.
For example, here’s an arborist education breakdown by percentage:
Depending on your state, you may or may not need to acquire a license to become an arborist.
Currently, 8 states require licensing to become an arborist. Also, depending on the state, licensing requirements may widely vary.
To start, you can gain initial experience by applying for entry-level arborist positions.
In turn, this experience will allow you to gain valuable insight by being an apprentice shadowing a skilled arborist.
As an entry-level arborist, you can expect to:
Pro Tip! Stand out from your fellow arborist professionals by taking initiative in seeking additional responsibilities, learning opportunities, and taking interest in projects you want.
Even though it’s not required, many businesses prefer to hire candidates with an ACP (i.e. accredited certification program.
The ISA (i.e. International Society of Arboriculture) is the most commonly used accredited arborist certification program.
In order to be eligible for an ISA certification, you’ll need to have at least ONE of the following:
The ISA considers 1,795 hours to be equivalent to one year of experience.
After earning an ACP from ISA, you can apply for additional credentials, such as:
Additionally, the ISA offers continuing education credentials to ensure you maintain your certification status with the most updated level of knowledge.
By far, joining industry associations is one of the best ways you can stay current on the latest industry knowledge, trends, and cutting edge ideas.
Plus, this level of networking allows you to ensure you have the skills, education, and connections you need to advance your career.
Take a look at some of the top, most recognized arborist industry associations:
Also, consider joining arborist industry conferences, such as:
By the way, did you know, Service Autopilot also hosts an annual Service Edge Conference (i.e. SEC) for field service businesses?
SEC is the perfect opportunity for you to connect with other professionals and businesses within the field service industry!
As an arborist, there are endless career paths you can take within the industry. Take a look at a few of the endless opportunities you have within your new career:
No matter which career path you take, becoming an arborist is a lucrative profession with countless opportunities for you to advance your career within the industry.
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At last, you now know how to become an arborist using these expert industry insights and resources to:
Use these key steps, strategies, and resources so you can discover how to become an arborist with a long-lasting, successful career!
Related: How to Start a Tree Cutting Business
Originally published March 6, 2024 7:00 AM CT
Tags: Business Operation, Featured Post
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