Is becoming an arborist right for me?
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How to become an Arborist
Becoming an arborist involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience. Here are the steps you can take to pursue a career as an arborist:
- Obtain a High School Diploma or Equivalent: While not always strictly required, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for most entry-level arborist jobs and is helpful for further training and certification.
- Gain Basic Knowledge and Skills: Familiarize yourself with basic tree care principles, techniques, and equipment by reading books, watching instructional videos, or taking introductory courses in arboriculture or forestry. Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience through volunteer work, internships, or part-time jobs with tree care companies or landscaping firms.
- Consider Formal Education or Training: While not mandatory, completing a formal program in arboriculture, forestry, or horticulture can improve your job prospects and deepen your knowledge. Many employers value candidates with certificates, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees in these areas.
- Gain Practical Experience: Seek employment or apprenticeship opportunities with tree care companies, municipal parks departments, or forestry agencies to gain practical experience in tree care operations. Start with entry-level positions, such as tree care technician or groundskeeper, and gradually work your way up to more specialized roles.
- Obtain Required Licenses or Certifications: Depending on local regulations, you may need certifications or licenses to perform certain tasks such as pesticide application, climbing, or operating heavy equipment. Consider certifications from organizations like the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), and check with your local or state government for additional licensing requirements.
Certifications
Arborists have the option to pursue various certifications to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to professionalism in the field of arboriculture. Some of the most recognized certifications for arborists include:
- ISA Certified Arborist: Offered by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), the ISA Certified Arborist credential is one of the most widely recognized certifications for arborists worldwide. To become certified, candidates must have a minimum of three years of full-time experience in arboriculture and pass a comprehensive exam covering topics such as tree biology, tree identification, pruning, tree risk assessment, and tree care practices.
- ISA Certified Tree Worker Climber Specialist: This certification is designed for arborists who specialize in climbing and working at heights to perform tree care tasks such as pruning, trimming, and tree removal. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in tree climbing techniques, equipment use, and safety practices through a practical exam administered by the ISA.
- ISA Certified Tree Worker Aerial Lift Specialist: Similar to the Tree Worker Climber Specialist certification, this credential focuses on the safe operation of aerial lift equipment, such as bucket trucks and aerial platforms, for tree care operations. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to operate aerial lift equipment safely and effectively through a practical exam administered by the ISA.
- TCIA Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP): Offered by the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), the CTSP certification is designed for professionals responsible for safety management in the tree care industry. To become certified, candidates must complete a comprehensive safety training program and pass a written exam covering topics such as OSHA regulations, hazard identification, and safety management practices.
- State-Specific Licenses or Certifications: Some states may require arborists to obtain state-specific licenses or certifications to perform tree care activities, such as pruning, tree removal, or pesticide application. Requirements vary by state, so arborists should check with their state's department of agriculture, forestry, or environmental protection agency for specific licensing or certification requirements.