If you’re interested in arborist jobs in Brisbane, then the best thing you can do is to get the right experience and qualifications. Arborists are experts in the care and maintenance of trees but you’ll need to have a head for heights because your role will include scaling some of the tallest trees in Brisbane!

What tasks do arborists perform?

People who take on Arborist jobs in Brisbane perform a number of important tasks that concern the health and safety of trees. For example, arborists can assess whether a tree is damaged, diseased or infected with pests, providing treatment or removing the tree if necessary. They can prune, trim or lop trees, as well as scale very tall trees. Arborists are also involved with planting new trees, as well as accessing public or private land to identify hazardous or storm damaged trees or those that require protection orders.

Where do arborists work?

Arborist jobs in Brisbane tend to be with local councils, tree lopping companies or energy providers. They work outdoors and provide a range of skills that are dependent on the needs of their employer. Skills learnt while working for an employer can also be invaluable for setting up your own arborist consulting firm or tree lopping business. Other opportunities include starting your own landscaping business or even moving to a management role within your current company.

What equipment do arborists need?

If you’re working for an employer, then most of your gear will be supplied on the job. However, if you’re thinking of starting your own business, then you’ll need a range of gear including:

• Chainsaws, ropes, branch taming cables, hitches and rope wrenches
• Climbing harnesses with loops for your gear
• Safety equipment including helmet, hearing and eye protection, gloves and safety leggings
• Cherry picker for tall pruning jobs

What qualifications are needed for arborist jobs in Brisbane?

To be considered for arborist jobs in Brisbane you need to obtain the right qualifications. Most arborists study for at least a Certification II and III in Arboriculture, as well as gaining valuable experience by working with arborists on the job. There are other qualifications, such as degrees or certificates that they can undertake, but none are compulsory.

However, if you want to become a consulting arborist, generally you need an AQF Level 5 qualification (Diploma) in Arboriculture. This higher qualification allows you to professionally assess trees and their effects on the surrounding buildings.

Clients can check to see if an arborist is qualified by entering their name in the Directory of Australian Consulting and Practicing Arborists.

Of course, you can start training with an arborist even without any qualifications, learn on the job, and then back up this experience with a Certificate or Diploma. There are many electives you can enrol in when you study Horticulture, including working safely at heights and working around power lines. It’s a good idea to pop into your local TAFE and see what courses they have on offer for arborist jobs in Brisbane.

When you have completed your qualifications, you should also register with at least one of the following: Queensland Arboricultural Association, Arboriculture Australia or the ISA (International Society of Arboriculture). This gives clients confidence in your qualifications, experience and professional standing.

For expert advice from our fully qualified and highly experienced arborist, call Kiwi Tree Lopping on 0422 218 153.