Arborist Trainee - Tree Worker / Driver
Burton Tree Service — North Okanagan / Shuswap
Burton Tree Service is a professional, owner-operated arborist business providing safe, well-planned tree work throughout the North Okanagan and Shuswap.
We’re looking for one reliable tree worker who can also drive company vehicles, and who is interested in developing technical skills and responsibility over time, as demand supports it.
The Role
You’ll work directly with the owner/operator (certified arborist), supporting field operations, logistics, and documentation.
Duties include:
- Ground support for tree removals and pruning
- Brush handling, chipping, hauling, limbing & bucking
- Jobsite safety and situational awareness
- Driving work trucks and towing equipment
- Using skidsteer
- Equipment loading, basic maintenance, yard work
- Taking photos and short video clips of work in progress (training provided)
- Training and preparation during slower periods
This is not a foreman role. As skills are developed and demand supports it, responsibilities may increase.
Technical Growth Expectation
You do not need climbing or high-angle experience on day one, but you must be willing to learn high-angle tree climbing & aerial device work over time.
This is not a permanent ground-only position.
Hours & Seasonality (Important)
- Part-time, variable hours
- Typically 8–32 hours/week during the working season
- Work is seasonal and weather-dependent
- Winter months may have little or no work
- 4-hour minimum paid when scheduled
- Work planned in half- or full-day blocks
Pay
- $25–$30/hour, depending on experience, driving qualifications, and technical skills
- This role may start at different responsibility and pay levels based on what you bring
- Pay reviewed as skills, reliability, and responsibility increase
Required
- Valid driver’s licence + abstract
- Confident driving trucks and backing trailers
- Basic First Aid (or willing to obtain within 3 months of hire)
- Physically capable of outdoor work
- Reliable attendance and communication
- Willingness to follow safety procedures and professional work standards
Preferred (Assets)
- Air brakes endorsement
- Heavy trailer endorsement or towing experience
- Fall protection training / certification
- Aerial lift / manlift training or experience
- Mechanical aptitude
- Faller training
- Prior experience in tree work, forestry, utility work, construction, or related trades
- Familiarity with chippers, rigging equipment, or rope systems
Relevant training and certifications are considered assets, not requirements. Additional training may be provided where appropriate.
This Role Is a Good Fit If You:
- Are reliable, safety-minded, and physically capable
- Are comfortable with seasonal, variable work
- Are willing to learn technical / high-angle tree work
- Are competent, comfortable, and responsible behind the wheel
- Are comfortable using a phone or camera to document work
To Apply
Please send:
- Resume
- Driver’s abstract
- Brief work background
- Relevant experience / qualifications
- Availability
Pay: $25.00-$30.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- On-site parking
Licence/Certification:
- Driving Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person
