What is an arborist? 

An arborist is a professional who has the technical competence gained through experience and related training to provide for or supervise the management of trees and other woody plants in residential, commercial, and public landscapes.

What can an arborist do?

A tree care professional has experience in different types of trees in different regions with varying climates helps them develop their knowledge and improve their skills. Working with different types of plants in different soils is vital to be a good arborist.


An arborist can do so many different things, but they are not loggers or landscapers. Yes, arborists do need to remove trees when they pose a risk to the public and arborists also plant trees. An arborists’ focus is to save existing trees and help the environment. There are so many different things that arborists can do, whether on the ground or aloft, in the field or at the office. The opportunities are endless because there really is something for everyone!

These are so many things to love about being an arborist – working outdoors, doing something different every day
, and giving back to your community are just a few of the many reasons to love this job and make it a rewarding career.

Where does an arborist work?

There are several areas of practice:

  • Residential/Commercial arborists either own or work for businesses that provide tree care on a fee basis. They can be hired to do work for individuals or public agencies.
  • Municipal arborists manage public-owned trees in cities and towns and are usually employed by cities, counties, or other public agencies.
  • Utility arborists manage trees along utility rights-of-way. They can be employed by the utility or contracted to do tree clearance.
  • Arboricultural consultants are technical experts who diagnose tree problems, perform tree appraisals, expert witness reports or testimony, and provide management programs for individuals, businesses, or public agencies.

    The International Society of Arboriculture created a career paths flowchart that provides great information. View their flowchart and detailed job description on the ISA website.

Jobs

To post a job opening please send a link to the posting on your site or detailed information on how to apply to info@OhioChapterISA.org.

Other great resources include:

 

09/23/2024

Arborist 1 Examination

City of Cleveland

08/27/2024

Forester (Urban)-20102028

ODNR - Shelby County

08/12/2024

Public Works Serviceman

Sylvania, OH

Academic Programs

Find a College or Vocational Training Program

Visit the ISA website for programs in other states.

Scholarships

The purpose of the Ohio Chapter ISA Scholarship Program is to promote professional arboriculture within Ohio. The goal is to assist individuals with the financial responsibility of professional arboricultural development through higher education in the field or via the International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist program.  

If you plan on taking your career to the next professional level this year, check back later this year to view opportunities.

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If you are looking for additional horticulture-related assistance, these resources and opportunities might also be of interest: