TOOLS & TECHNOLOGY
Tools used with judgment
ropes, saddles and climbing systems, chainsaws, handsaws and pole pruners, aerial lifts, cranes and chippers, diagnostic, cabling and bracing equipment, plant-health-care and soil tools.
← Arborist overview
01 · WHAT · PRODUCE PATH
What is the Arborist trade?
An Arborist transplants, maintains and removes trees and woody plants using ropes, climbing systems, pruning tools, diagnostic tools and mechanized equipment. Arborists have knowledge in the science of arboriculture, the cultivation, management and study of individual trees, shrubs, vines, and woody plants. An Arborist carries out treatments for optimal tree health, managing pests, diseases, wounds and defects that impact trees and woody plants. Specifically, an Arborist:
THE CORE OF THE WORK
Inspect. Diagnose. Repair. Improve.
An Arborist transplants, maintains and removes trees and woody plants using ropes, climbing systems, pruning tools, diagnostic tools and mechanized equipment. Arborists have knowledge in the science of arboriculture, the cultivation, management and study of individual trees, shrubs, vines, and woody plants. An Arborist carries out treatments for optimal tree health, managing pests, diseases, wounds and defects that impact trees and woody plants. Specifically, an Arborist:
Not every Arborist performs every task. The mix changes with the employer, sector, workplace, equipment and level of responsibility.
- transplants, prunes, maintains and removes trees and woody plants
- climbs trees and works at heights
- identifies and treats diseases and pests on trees and woody plants
- improves the health and integrity of damaged trees and woody plants
- enhances soils by fertilizing, irrigating, mulching and aerating
- provides advice on trees and woody plants with others including residential, commercial and government representatives
WORKING CONDITIONS
Understand the environment
work at height and suspended positioning; chainsaws, falling material and rigging forces; all-weather outdoor work; electrical and traffic hazards; physically demanding climbing and handling.
SAFETY FIRST
Learn the hazards before the task
Training, supervision, safe procedures, appropriate PPE and stopping when conditions are uncertain are essential. Requirements vary by workplace and assignment.
STRENGTHS THAT GROW
Skill develops through practice.
risk awarenessphysical coordinationtree biologycalm communicationpractical judgment
ADVANCED SPECIALIZATIONS
One trade can lead to very different work.
These are advanced work directions within or adjacent to Arborist, not promises of separate credentials or pay. Requirements vary by employer, equipment, experience and any additional training or authorization.
Climbing and aerial rescue
Access crowns safely and respond to emergencies using rope systems.
Plant health care
Diagnose pests, disease, soil and water problems and apply treatments.
Tree risk assessment
Evaluate defects, targets and likelihood of failure to guide decisions.
Technical rigging and removal
Dismantle hazardous trees while controlling heavy suspended pieces.
Municipal and urban forestry
Manage public trees, inventories, planting and community canopy goals.
Utility vegetation management
Protect electrical corridors through specialized pruning and hazard controls.
Consulting and ownership
Advance into reports, appraisals, crew leadership or a tree-care business.
EVIDENCE BASE
Sources & verification
Regulated, numerical and time-sensitive claims link to the authority used. Accessed and reviewed August 25, 2026.
Skilled Trades Ontario — Arborist ↗Official scope, duties, training and certificationGovernment of Canada Job Bank — Ontario wages ↗Ontario low, median and high employee wage benchmarkSkilled Trades Ontario — Start an apprenticeship ↗Eligibility, sponsors and registrationOntario — OYAP ↗High-school apprenticeship pathway
Why might this career fit me?