Arborist as a Career in Australia

          Arborist as a Career in Australia

       by: Gem Siocon 

Being an Arborist is a special job and hence it needs certain qualifications.

Only a well-trained arborist knows about each species of trees, plants or shrubs and how to maintain them. There are many schools and institutions that provide such training. To be an arborist is a good career choice especially if you are a nature buff. Have you ever imagined what the view would be like from the tallest tree in the neighbourhood?

Or wondered what the surroundings look like. I’m sure you’re thinking about it now, an Ariel view from the tree top.

Job Description and Responsibilities

Arborists are often referred to as tree doctors, tree surgeon and Climbers. They tend to trees, plant and shrubs and examine them for any issues related to structure, nutrition and disease. They evaluate damage or decay just by looking at the color and texture of the tree. If any infection, damage or decay is found, samples will be sent to the lab for complete examination.

Generally, there are two kinds of arborist: the purist, involved more in gardens and tree pruning for aesthetic purposes, and the practical arborists who work on power lines (often called ‘linies’), infrastructure etc.

Arborists prune and trim trees and shrubs, including removing dead branches. These trees are either decayed, insect-infested or have been damaged by storms.  Other pruning methods are used to maintain proper structure in young trees, enhance tree form or shape and decrease the possibility of future damage during storm events.

Sometimes living branches are removed because they obstruct with utilities and structures or block the streets and sidewalks. They also crowd other trees, which damages the more desirable trees, or they need to be replaced by a more ideal specimen. In some cases, trees are removed in a particular area because of new construction.  These activities involve climbing trees. 

Special gear is worn while climbing trees. Mechanical lifts are also being employed for this purpose. As a safety precaution, it is important that arborists wear safety gear which includes a helmet and gloves, and shows extreme care when working with saws, clippers, shears and any other such tools. 

Education and Training Requirements

In Australia to become an arborist, you usually need to complete a traineeship in Horticulture (Arboriculture). There are variations in entry requirements, but Year 10 is generally required by most employers. A bachelor’s or graduate degree could find a career in a research position.

Overseas trained arborists must complete an equivalent traineeship/apprenticeship qualification or have significant work experience (at least 3 years min).

Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) in Australia offers varying levels of professional qualification on arboricultural education and training. They are streamlined countrywide through a multi-disciplinary vocational education and training. Also, there is always on the job training.

Licence

      Arboriculture Australia recently launched the Australian Arborist Industry Licence in recognition of qualified            arborist professionals. 

Salary Details 

Arborists in Australia may earn $61,369 per year (or $26.74 per hour) as per Payscale Australia.

An entry-level Arborist with less than 1-year experience can expect to earn an average total compensation of AU$23.44/hour.

An early career Arborist (1-4 years of experience) earns an average total compensation of AU$25.08/hour while mid-career Arborist (10-19 years of experience) earns an average total compensation of AU$29.79. 

What Employers Look For

Employers look for candidates who can problem solve, make decisions, execute and get the job done independently and in an effective and timely fashion. Some prefer a candidate with a traineeship in Horticulture (Arboriculture).

Most employers need the necessary permits and licenses because government agencies mandate contractors to apply for permits or license before they can start working. 

Reference checking is a standard procedure for employers so they can verify the companies you have done the same work they require.   

In all cases, employers demand that the arborist they hire perform industry-accepted practices. Be wary of techniques that violate industry standards like topping a tree, using climbing spikes on trees that are not being removed, eliminating too many live trees, or disfiguring or removing trees without acceptable reasons. 

There is also a need for international Arborists within Australia. These employers will sponsor Arborist which will give them a Temporary Short Stay (TSS) visa sponsorship which can entitle you to work in Australia for 4 years. This can lead to you getting a Permanent Visa (ENS or Subclass visa 494) i.e. Permanent Resident within Australia.

There are good job opportunities, especially in areas with a temperate climate. Job openings are only seasonal in some areas, but mainly there are opportunities available all-round the year.

If you are searching for a qualified arborist or looking for your next arborist job,  send us your enquiry.