Tree Surgeon

What is a tree surgeon?

A tree surgeon is someone who takes care of trees. They help to maintain the health and safety of trees by trimming, pruning, and removing branches or whole trees.

What does a tree surgeon do?

Usually, a tree surgeon does the following:

• Trimming and pruning trees to ensure their health and shape
• Removing dead, diseased, or hazardous branches
• Planting new trees and shrubs
• Conducting regular inspections to identify any issues or potential risks
• Operating and maintaining specialized equipment, such as chainsaws and wood chippers

What does the day-to-day life of a tree surgeon look like?

A tree surgeon usually works between 8am and 5pm, though this may vary depending on the season and the demand for their services. Some tasks they might do in a typical day include:

• Assessing the condition of trees and planning the necessary maintenance or removal
• Climbing trees or using elevated platforms to reach branches or sections that need attention
• Pruning and trimming branches to improve tree health and aesthetics
• Removing fallen or hazardous trees in a safe and controlled manner
• Cleaning up debris and ensuring the work area is safe

Where does a tree surgeon work?

Tree surgeons can work for various employers or be self-employed. Some common types of employers include:

• Local tree surgery companies: These companies specialize in tree care and often have a team of tree surgeons working together.
• Arboricultural consultants: They provide expert advice on tree management and may hire tree surgeons for specific projects or assessments.
• Forestry or conservation organizations: These organizations may employ tree surgeons to maintain and manage forests or natural areas.
• Local councils or government departments: They hire tree surgeons to take care of trees in public spaces, such as parks or streets.

Tree surgeons typically work outdoors and their work can take them to different locations depending on the job requirements. They may work in urban areas, residential gardens, parks, or even remote natural areas.

What tools/equipment does a tree surgeon use? (Don't mention those not relevant to the job)

A tree surgeon uses a variety of tools and equipment, including:

• Chainsaws: Used for cutting branches and trees.
• Ladders and climbing equipment: Essential for reaching higher branches safely.
• Wood chippers: Used to shred tree branches and turn them into wood chips.
• Protective gear: This includes helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and harnesses to ensure safety while working at heights.
• Pruning shears and saws: Used for precise trimming and pruning.

What do I need to become a tree surgeon?

There are a number of ways you can become a tree surgeon, including:

• Apprenticeships: Some tree surgery companies offer apprenticeship programs where you can learn the trade while working alongside experienced tree surgeons.
• College courses: You can enroll in courses related to arboriculture or forestry, such as a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Arboriculture.
• On-the-job training: Some individuals start as ground workers or laborers in tree surgery companies and gradually gain practical experience and knowledge.

While formal qualifications are not always mandatory, they can greatly enhance your chances of getting hired and progressing in your career as a tree surgeon.

What career paths are available?

There are a number of career paths available to you as a tree surgeon, including:

• Lead Tree Surgeon: With experience and expertise, you can become a lead tree surgeon who supervises a team and takes on more complex projects.
• Arboricultural Consultant: After gaining significant knowledge and experience, you can work as an arboricultural consultant, providing specialized advice and assessments for tree management.
• Self-Employment: Some tree surgeons choose to start their own businesses and work independently, taking on their own clients and projects.

To start on these career paths, it's important to gain substantial experience in tree surgery and continuously update your skills and knowledge through further training and certifications.

What jobs are similar to a tree surgeon? (Include those with transferable skills that a tree surgeon usually has)

• Landscape Gardener: In this role, you would focus on designing and maintaining gardens and outdoor spaces, which may involve tree care and maintenance.
• Forester: Similar to a tree surgeon, a forester works with trees and forests but often focuses more on the management and conservation of larger forested areas.
• Ecologist: Ecologists study the relationships between organisms and their environments, and while not directly related to tree care, there may be overlap in knowledge and skills needed for tree assessments and support in ecological studies.

What made you want to become a tree surgeon?

How did you get your first tree surgeon job?

What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being a tree surgeon?

Are you a tree surgeon? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers as a tree surgeon. If you're interested, contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.