Tree surgeon
Trees are known as 'the lungs of the earth'. Keep trees healthy by caring for them, checking for hazards and planting more.
Also known as: tree climber, arborist
About the job
What it's like
You would keep trees healthy by carrying out work including planting, care and hazard checks.
You would:
assess the health of trees
prune, fell and plant trees in streets or parks
check for potential dangers from trees
control pests
remove snow to take the weight off branches
follow health and safety rules carefully
help trees live for longer so they can continue to purify the air around us
remove dead trees, allowing the wood to be recycled
manage trees carefully to protect the wildlife that lives in or around them
You'll usually work from a rope and harness. You might also use elevated work platforms known as ‘cherry-pickers’.
Green job
In this job you'll be doing work to help the environment. Find out more about green jobs.
Hours
As a full-time tree surgeon working for an employer, you'll usually work Monday to Friday.
You may need to work some weekends, and could be called out at unexpected times to deal with emergencies.
There are often self-employment and consultancy opportunities available for experienced tree surgeons.
Environment
As this is very physical work, you'll need to be fit and prepared to work in all weather conditions.
It's also very important to work safely, as you'll be handling power tools and working at heights. Your employer would supply equipment and protective clothing.
Travel
Depending on the area you cover, you may need to travel between different sites.
Most tree surgeons will have access to their own vehicle for work.
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Agriculture, forestry and fishing
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- arboriculture
- machinery
- chainsaws
- forestry
- pruning
- grinding
- public liability
- grinding machine
- risk mitigation
- safety culture
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- recalling
- time management
- taking initiative
- risk taking
- managing resources
- observation
- verbal communication
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Biology
Chemistry
Environmental Science
Practical Craft Skills
Skills for Work: Rural Skills
There are no set qualifications to enter this job but qualifications at SCQF level 4/5 may be of value.
You could start a Modern Apprenticeship and work towards a Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) in Trees and Timber (SCQF Level 5).
You may also study a full-time course in arboriculture, amenity horticulture, forestry or related subjects.
National Certificate or National Qualifications (SCQF levels 4-6) may look for no formal qualification or three to four National 4/5 qualifications
To enter a Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8) you will need National 4/5 qualifications and one to two Highers or a relevant NC/NQ/.
To enter a degree (SCQF level 9/10) you will require National 5 qualifications and four to five Highers or a relevant HNC/D.
Qualifications and experience that demonstrate physical fitness, understanding of health and safety and care of the natural environment
Work-based qualifications such as a Scottish Vocational Qualification in Trees and Timber (SCQF level 5/6) either in forestry or arboriculture can be achieved once in work.
It would be helpful to have a driving licence; some roles may require this.
To have a natural love of nature and the outdoors
To enjoy practical and physical work
To not have a fear of heights
To be physically fit
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