Climbing Arborist

About the Role

A+ Lawn & Landscape has served the Greater Des Moines area for over 30 years. Our tree care division handles technical climbing, rigging, pruning, and removal for residential and commercial properties across central Iowa. We are looking for a Climbing Arborist who takes the canopy seriously and brings the technical skills and professional judgment to match.

This is not a generalist role. If you are someone who reads a tree before cutting it, knows the difference between a reduction and a hat rack, and cares how the work looks when the job is done, this is the position for you.

Primary Responsibilities

Perform technical aerial operations using modern rope systems, saddles, and harnesses (SRT and MRT)
Execute crown pruning, thinning, raising, and structural reduction in accordance with ANSI A300 standards
Conduct safe and efficient tree removals including sectional dismantling and complex rigging scenarios
Install and maintain cabling and bracing systems for structural support
Assess tree health, structural integrity, and risk; provide professional evaluations and care recommendations
Operate chainsaws, chippers, and specialized rigging equipment with precision and safety
Communicate professionally with crew leaders and clients on-site
Maintain clean, organized job sites that reflect the company's standards
Support ground crew with rigging, equipment staging, and site coordination

Qualifications

Minimum 3 years of professional tree climbing experience
Demonstrated expertise in technical climbing and rigging techniques
Proficient chainsaw operator with strong safe handling practices
Sound judgment in the canopy - you assess before you cut
ISA Certification highly valued; not required to apply
Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
Professional demeanor; comfortable working on residential and commercial properties
Proven ability to work as part of a coordinated crew
Strong candidates with a solid climbing foundation and genuine commitment to growth will be considered

Physical Requirements

Rope climbing ability using modern harness and saddle systems for extended periods
Regularly lift, carry, and move 50-75 lbs
Comfortable working at heights of 20-100+ feet
Ability to work outdoors in Iowa's variable seasons: heat, cold, wind, and precipitation
Full-day stamina for demanding physical labor

Compensation & Benefits

$50,000 - $60,000 per year based on experience
Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with matching
Paid time off
Life and disability insurance
Flexible spending accounts
Health savings account
On-the-job training and professional development support
Opportunities for advancement
Parental leave

Employment Requirements

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
Upon hire, employment eligibility will be verified through our participation in the federal E-Verify Program
Pre-employment background check required
Valid driver's license required

Apply

Apply and tell us about your climbing background. We read every application.

A+ Lawn & Landscape is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status.