Care for urban forests and work at the top of your game — literally.
Arborist
As an Arborist, you’ll manage the health, safety, and structure of trees in parks, streets, gardens, and natural areas. Whether climbing with ropes, operating from an EWP, or consulting with clients, your work protects both people and the environment and plays a vital role in keeping our green infrastructure strong.
Salary Range
$25 – $60/hour (Higher rates with climbing experience, EWP operation, or consulting roles.)
Recommended Training
Certificate III in Parks and Gardens
Job Listing (Coming Soon)
Browse current job openings and take the next step in your landscaping career.
Job Overview
Arborists are tree care specialists who assess, prune, remove, and maintain trees in built and natural environments. You’ll work with tools, machinery, and climbing gear to care for trees safely and sustainably, often high off the ground. Arborists play a critical role in managing tree risk, promoting canopy health, and preserving green assets in urban and regional areas. You may work for councils, tree care companies, vegetation contractors, or as an independent operator. Some arborists move into consulting or advisory roles, helping assess trees for planning, compliance or development projects.
Tasks & Duties
Climbing and pruning trees using ropes, harnesses or EWPs
Identifying tree species and assessing tree health or hazards
Removing dead, damaged or dangerous limbs or entire trees
Operating chainsaws, chippers, stump grinders and climbing tools
Treating tree pests and diseases using approved techniques
Consulting with clients or councils on tree care plans
Completing risk assessments and tree reports
Coordinating ground crew, traffic control or site logistics
Maintaining tools, vehicles and safety gear to site standards
How to Become an Arborist
This is a licensed trade pathway that starts with practical training and builds through hands-on site experience.
- Certificate III in Arboriculture (AHC30824) The core trade qualification for arborists — covers tree biology, pruning, climbing, chainsaw use, WHS and risk control.
- Diploma of Arboriculture (AHC50524) For those progressing into tree assessment, compliance, consulting or urban forestry roles.
- Chainsaw & EWP Tickets Required for working at heights or conducting tree removals and maintenance.
- White Card (Construction Induction) Mandatory for any work on construction or council-managed sites.
- MR or HR Licence Often required for transporting machinery and equipment.
Career Progression & Pathways
Many landscaping careers begin with hands-on work and grow into leadership, specialised trades, or business ownership. Here's how your journey could unfold:
Starter
Trainee Arborist, Ground Crew
Skilled
Climbing Arborist, EWP Operator, Vegetation Technician
Advanced
Senior Arborist, Site Supervisor, Tree Assessment Officer, Consulting Arborist, Urban Forestry Planner, Business Owner
Already Working in Landscaping or Horticulture?
If you’ve been working in garden or grounds maintenance, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). This process allows experienced workers to have their skills formally assessed and credited toward the qualification, helping you fast-track your pathway to becoming qualified.
Speak with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to explore your RPL options.
Other Key Considerations
- White Card (Construction Induction) Required to work on school, council, or public infrastructure sites.
- Driver’s Licence Helpful for travelling between job sites or operating equipment like trailers and ride-on mowers.
- First Aid Certificate Often preferred for roles involving public spaces, schools, or recreational facilities.
- ACDC Licence (QLD) This may be supported if weed control is part of your role.
- Professional Industry Membership Joining an industry association like Landscape Queensland can connect you to professional networks, mentorship opportunities, and support services throughout your career.
“Working in parks and gardens gives you a sense of pride. You’re part of creating spaces where families, communities and wildlife can thrive.”
Skills, Attributes & Experience
This is a physical, safety-critical role that suits people who are:
- Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors or at height
- Confident using tools, machinery and climbing gear
- Focused on safety, teamwork and clear communication
- Interested in tree health, plant science and environmental care
- Skilled in problem-solving and reading site conditions
- Experienced in working in teams under time or public safety pressures
- Licensed and trained in chainsaw, EWP, or traffic control (where required)
You’ll need strong awareness, calm under pressure, and the ability to work in complex environments — from city streets to storm-affected forests.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Take our interactive career quiz to discover which landscaping pathway best matches your skills and interests.
Take the Career Quiz