Climbing Arborist

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.

• 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

• 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

• 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

• $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

• 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 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.