Climbing Arborist

A Climbing Arborist uses harness and rigging systems to cut, trim and fell trees and branches. You’ll assess the structure and health of a tree and remove any dead or decaying limbs. Climbing Arborists usually work at heights during their duties, but you may also work from the ground when required. You may also treat trees for pest or other health issues with chemicals if necessary.

Climbing Arborists should be able to work to correct procedures and make safety a priority during their duties. You’ll need to have good physical skills and be fit enough to carry out the manual demands of the job. Climbing Arborists should have strong communication skills and you must be able to work as part of a team. You’ll need to be able to work outdoors in a range of weather conditions.

Future demand High
Average yearly income $83,200
Skill level Beginner

How do I become a climbing arborist?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
AHCPCM205

Fell Small Trees
On Campus
1 - 2 days
$0 - $960
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Climbing Arborist Landscaper Vegetation Control Worker
Arborist Forestry Labourer
+ 2 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Climbing Arborist Landscaper Vegetation Control Worker Arborist Forestry Labourer + 2 more
FWPCOT3301

Trim Trees using a Pole Saw
On Campus
1 - 4 days
$0 - $720
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Arborist Climbing Arborist Land Management Worker
Groundskeeper Council Maintenance Worker Utility Arborist
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Arborist Climbing Arborist Land Management Worker Groundskeeper Council Maintenance Worker Utility Arborist + 3 more
AHC30820

Certificate III in Arboriculture (Climbing Arborist)
On Campus, Traineeship
18 - 20 months
$0 - $3,992
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Climbing Arborist
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Climbing Arborist
FWPCOT3347

Fell Trees Manually (Intermediate)
On Campus, Online
2 - 4 days
$1,110 - $1,650
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Arborist Climbing Arborist Chainsaw Operator
Utility Arborist Forestry Worker
+ 2 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Arborist Climbing Arborist Chainsaw Operator Utility Arborist Forestry Worker + 2 more
AHCARB322

Access trees for inspection
On Campus
16 hours
Unavailable
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Climbing Arborist Arborist
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Climbing Arborist Arborist
AHCARB319

Use arborist climbing techniques
On Campus
3 days
Unavailable
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Climbing Arborist Utility Arborist Tree Worker
Land Management Worker Environmental Technician
+ 2 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Climbing Arborist Utility Arborist Tree Worker Land Management Worker Environmental Technician + 2 more
AHCARB310

Perform aerial rigging
On Campus
16 hours
Unavailable
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Climbing Arborist Arborist Utility Arborist
Forester Tree Worker
+ 2 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Climbing Arborist Arborist Utility Arborist Forester Tree Worker + 2 more
AHCARB311

Tie, dress, set and finish arborist knots
On Campus
3 days
Unavailable
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Climbing Arborist Groundsperson Utility Arborist
Land Management Worker Forestry Worker Tour Guide
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Climbing Arborist Groundsperson Utility Arborist Land Management Worker Forestry Worker Tour Guide + 3 more
AHC30824

Certificate III in Arboriculture
On Campus
24 months
$16,500
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Arborist Climbing Arborist Vegetation Control Worker
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Arborist Climbing Arborist Vegetation Control Worker
FWPFGM3212

Fall Trees Manually (Intermediate)
On Campus
1 day
Unavailable
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forestry Worker Climbing Arborist Chainsaw Operator
Arborist Utility Arborist
+ 2 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forestry Worker Climbing Arborist Chainsaw Operator Arborist Utility Arborist + 2 more
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Arborist Trainee

An Arborist Trainee assists with tree cutting and pruning, working under supervision, prioritising safety, teamwork, and communication outdoors.

Avg yearly income $52,000
Skill level Beginner

Arborist

An Arborist trims and removes tree branches, assesses tree health, and communicates with clients, prioritising safety and teamwork outdoors.

Avg yearly income $72,800
Skill level Beginner

Common questions

How much does a Climbing Arborist earn?

In Australia, a full time Climbing Arborist generally earns $1,600 per week ($83,200 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

Author Image
Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

What are the job opportunities for a Climbing Arborist?

This industry has seen an increase in employment numbers over the last five years. There are currently 5,600 people employed in arboriculture in Australia and many of them specialise as a Climbing Arborist. Climbing Arborists may find work across all regions of Australia.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

Author Image
Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

How do I become a Climbing Arborist?

If you’re interested in a career as a Climbing Arborist, consider enrolling in a Certificate III in Arboriculture. You’ll develop the skills to identify and assess trees and carry out pruning, cutting and tree felling work. This course covers topics including working from a platform, working safely near powerlines and operating chainsaws and pole saws.

Author Image
Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

Further reading

Careers for people who love the outdoors

14th September 2021

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

10th November 2023

Most popular horticulture courses

29th June 2022

Courses by location