Job Description

A Tree Faller is a specialized forestry worker responsible for cutting down trees using knowledge of tree characteristics and cutting techniques. They carefully plan and execute tree felling, ensuring safety and efficiency.

Typical Preparation

Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Years in related career: None

On-the-job training: Moderate-term

Outlook

Projected Growth: -9.4% (negative growth)

Annual job openings: 700

Direct AI exposure: 13% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 13% of tasks

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $52K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$35K
per year
$41K
per year
$52K
per year
$63K
per year
$82K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $1.12K above the national average.

What does a Tree Faller do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Assesss tree conditions and determines the best felling method.
  • Uses chainsaws or other equipment to cut down trees.
  • Ensures compliance with safety regulations and environmental guidelines.
  • Maintains and repairs forestry equipment.
  • Coordinates with forestry teams for effective area management.

Work environment

Tree Fallers typically work outdoors in forested areas, often in remote locations. The work environment is physically demanding and requires operation in various weather conditions. Safety is a primary concern due to the hazardous nature of the work.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Precision Felling: Specializing in cutting trees in confined spaces or near structures.
  • Wildfire Prevention: Focusing on removing hazardous trees to reduce wildfire risks.
  • Conservation Felling: Involving selective tree removal to promote forest health.
  • Urban Tree Removal: Specializing in tree felling in urban environments with unique challenges.
  • High Climbing: Expertise in climbing and felling trees in difficult-to-reach areas.

Description

Tree Falling is a critical occupation in forestry, focusing on safely and efficiently removing trees for various purposes such as timber harvesting, land clearing, and conservation. Tree Fallers must have extensive knowledge of tree species, cutting techniques, and safety practices. They often work in challenging environments, requiring physical strength, endurance, and agility.

Precision and decision-making are key, as Tree Fallers must assess the best way to fell trees without causing damage to surrounding areas. They need to be adept at using various forestry tools and equipment, including chainsaws and climbing gear.

The occupation demands constant attention to safety, both for the faller and the environment. Tree Fallers play a significant role in forest management and conservation efforts, making their work essential to both the timber industry and environmental sustainability.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Tree Faller if you are...

Pros:

  • Working in natural environments.
  • High level of independence in the work.
  • Physical fitness and active lifestyle.

Cons:

  • Physically demanding and potentially hazardous work.
  • Exposure to varying weather conditions.
  • Seasonal or variable work opportunities depending on the region.

How to become a Tree Faller

Typical education

The occupation usually requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional vocational training or apprenticeships in forestry or a related field. On average, this amounts to about 2-3 years of post-secondary training.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Environmental Science for understanding forest ecosystems.
  • Mechanics or Shop Class for basic equipment handling and maintenance.
  • Physical Education for maintaining physical fitness.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Join outdoor or environmental clubs.
  • Participate in sports teams for physical conditioning.
  • Volunteer in community forestry or conservation projects.

Preparation after high school

  • Pursue vocational training or apprenticeships in forestry or arboriculture.
  • Gain certifications in chainsaw operation and safety.
  • Seek internships or entry-level positions with logging companies or forestry services.

More resources

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