Tree surgeons, also known as arborists work with individual trees, hedgerows and shrubs in cities, the countryside and conservation areas. They are trained and equipped to tend trees by preserving, planting, protecting, pruning and felling, sometimes with heavy equipment. Tree surgery is often performed to improve the health of a tree, to improve its appearance or for safety reasons. A tree surgeon will have knowledge of trees as living organisms and understand when, how and why specialist tree care is needed.
Their main tasks may include:
- planting trees and shrubs
- pruning or thinning to remove diseased or weakened branches
- removal of trees as a whole or in sections
- emergency tree care following storm damage
- using a range of specialist equipment and climbing techniques
- undertaking groundwork using a chainsaw and chipper.
Tree surgeons work as part of a team. Ground staff make sure a work site is safe by keeping people and vehicles away, and assist tree surgeons by passing tools, refuelling chainsaws and clearing away dead branches and debris.
Tree surgeons work with different types of hand and power tools including chainsaws, hedge cutters, mechanical shredders, secateurs and strimmers. They also regularly clean and maintain all their equipment.
Hours and environment
Tree surgeons usually work around 35 to 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. There may be overtime, including evening and weekend work. Some are on call for emergencies.
Most of the work is outdoors in all weathers in a wide range of locations. These include urban and country parks, public woodlands, motorways and privately-owned gardens.
The work can be very noisy and tree surgeons may be exposed to sawdust and fumes from tools, pesticides and fertilisers. They wear protective clothing such as helmets, ear protectors and chainsaw protective boots, trousers and gloves. They also use specialist rope access and positioning systems.
Tree surgery work is physically demanding, involving climbing each day, sometimes for many hours.
Tree surgeons may need to travel from their base to where they are working. For employed tree surgeons, transport is usually provided. For those tree surgeons that are self-employed a driving licence will be required along with their own transport. Occasional periods may be spent working away from home.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- Starting salaries may be around €20,000 a year.
- Experienced tree surgeons may earn between €35,000 and €45,000.
- Self-employed tree surgeons may earn up to €50,000 or more.
Some employers provide the protective clothing needed for the job.
Skills and personal qualities
A tree surgeon should:
- be practical and good at working with their hands
- be able to work safely
- be responsible and diligent
- enjoy working as part of a team
- have good communication skills.
Interests
It is important to:
- enjoy working outdoors
- be interested in conserving and improving the environment.
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