Is Tree Surgery A Good Career?
Let’s cut straight to it: is tree surgery a good career? We’ve worked in the industry for years – from hauling branches through muddy gardens in Norwich to tackling 60-foot removals in the middle of nowhere. And if there’s one thing we can say, it’s this: tree surgery isn’t just a job. It’s a full-body, full-brain career that demands a lot – but gives plenty back.
Things to think about before considering tree surgery as a career
Here’s what we wish someone had told us when we were starting out.
1. It’s physical, no doubt about it
Tree surgery isn’t for the faint-hearted. You’re climbing, lifting, balancing, sawing, roping, dragging, and repeating – all day long. There’s no faking fitness when you’re halfway up a beech tree in the rain with 15kg of kit strapped to your harness.
But if you like movement, fresh air, and earning while staying strong, it beats a gym membership any day.
Local insight:
In Norwich, we deal with a mix of tight terrace gardens and sprawling country jobs. So expect to be working both in harnesses above a garden fence and in open fields with high winds. The variety keeps it interesting – but your body needs to be up for both.
2. The learning never really stops
Think it’s just about cutting stuff? Think again. A good tree surgeon is:
- Part biologist (understanding species, growth patterns, disease)
- Part engineer (rigging, force calculation, tool mechanics)
- Part planner (legal restrictions, nesting laws, TPOs)
- Part communicator (clients, councils, crew)
From day one, you’ll be picking up technical skills, tree ID, climbing techniques and safety protocols. And even 10 years in, there’s always more to learn.
3. Money? Decent - if you’re skilled and reliable
Tree surgery pays fairly well once you’ve got a few years under your belt. Groundies typically earn £100–£150/day. Climbers and lead cutters can make £180–£300/day, depending on their experience, certs, and speed.
Run your own business? You could hit £40k–£70k+ a year once established. But don’t expect that in year one.
You’ll also need to invest in:
- Chainsaws (£400–£800)
- PPE (Helmet, trousers, gloves – £300+)
- Climbing kit (harnesses, ropes, carabiners – £1,000+)
- Ongoing training (NPTC units, first aid)
It’s a cost upfront – but worth it if you’re serious.
4. There’s always work - but weather rules your world
We’re rarely short of jobs around Norwich. Between domestic gardens, estate management, school contracts and emergency storm work, there’s plenty to go around. Especially after a windy night.
But winter slows down, and storms can cancel work altogether. You’ll need to manage cash flow and plan for downtime, especially in your early years.
We recommend keeping winter pruning and hedge work booked in advance – and maybe doing a bit of firewood work or equipment servicing during the quieter months.
5. Long-term prospects are solid
Unlike some trades, tree surgery isn’t easily replaced by machines. Trees still need humans to climb them, inspect them, and make judgment calls on their health and structure.
Career paths include:
- Advanced climbing and rigging
- Forestry and estate management
- Consultancy and surveys (with further quals)
- Running your own firm
One of our climbers started at 19 on £75/day and now manages commercial contracts with housing developers. There’s upward mobility – if you put the graft in.
6. It’s not all chainsaws and blue skies
Here’s the bit most blogs don’t tell you:
- You’ll be soaked, sore and cold sometimes.
- There’s paperwork, risk assessments, and site reports.
- You’ll get the odd client who expects miracles and a clean lawn.
- Kit gets stolen if you’re not careful.
- It takes years to feel truly confident at height.
But it’s also:
- Hugely satisfying to complete a big, safe job.
- A tight-knit trade with great camaraderie.
- Full of interesting characters and projects.
- Rewarding when customers say, “That looks so much better now.”
You just need to be ready for both sides.
7. FAQs we hear from people considering tree surgery
Q: Do I need a degree?
No. Most start with NPTC City & Guilds chainsaw and climbing units. Hands-on learning is key.
Q: How long does it take to get qualified?
A few weeks of courses to start, then months or years of learning on the job.
Q: Is it dangerous?
It can be, yes. But with proper training, gear, and a safety-first mindset, you reduce that risk massively.
Q: Is there demand in Norwich?
Absolutely. With so many mature trees, tight gardens and growing developments, skilled tree surgeons are always needed.
Final word
So, is tree surgery a good career? If you want variety, challenge, and the satisfaction of skilled, physical work – yes. It’s tough. It’s muddy. But it’s never boring. And if you’ve got the drive, there’s a future in it.
Want to talk to someone doing the job right now? Drop us a message. We’re always happy to help those looking to get started – or level up.
