The Tree and Landscape Apprenticeship program was created as part of a growing national environmental justice movement for racial and economic equality. We’re improving the lives of residents in low-to-moderate income areas through tree planting, arboriculture, landscape management, and sustainable careers for young adults (18-30 year-olds) who want to make a noticeable difference in the communities in which they live, work, and play. 

We are currently looking to identify motivated, hard-working individuals to join our tree installation and tree care crew. No landscape experience necessary—training provided. Successful candidates will have a strong willingness to learn new professional skills while working outdoors, as well as an interest in creating positive environmental changes in the Upstate. Apprentices can expect to receive paid on-the-job training in addition to a wide range of educational, professional development opportunities and practical life skills. 

Employment Status: Seasonal, Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Work Location: 660 Mauldin Rd, Greenville, SC 29607

Starting Hourly Rate: $13/hr (Opportunities for performance based raises)

Reports to: Workforce Development Manager

Position Start Date: Monday, February 4, 2025

Season End Date: Friday, May 17, 2025

*Saturday workdays may be offered for overtime pay at the discretion of the supervisor.

Application: Go to TreesUpstate.org/workforce and complete the Google Form application.

Further Inquiry: Direct any questions to Grant Spikes, grant@treesupstate.org or call 864-301-1272.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗪𝗲’𝗿𝗲 𝗟𝗼𝗼𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝗼𝗿:

• 18-30 years of age at start date.
• No landscape experience necessary, training provided.
• Positive attitude and eagerness to learn.
• Physically able to stand, bend, squat, kneel and lift up to 50 pounds on a routine basis.
• Must be able to perform manual labor outside in all weather conditions, including rain, snow, and heat.
• Demonstrated ability to report for work regularly and punctually
• Possession of a valid driver’s license, or an ability to obtain one within 3 months, is preferred.
• Must be able to pass a criminal background test.
• Must be able to pass a drug test.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗗𝗼:

• Install container-grown, balled-and-burlap, and bare root trees.
• Load, unload, and transport trees and other materials.
• Provide technical pruning for urban trees.
• Perform required maintenance including but not limited to: installing new trees, weeding, mulching, raking, pruning, installing / removing staking, soil tests, soil amendments, removing dead/damaged/diseased wood, removing small dead trees, etc.
• Evaluate tree health and assess for signs of common tree pests and diseases.
• Safely use and maintain hand tools and power tools (pole saw, pole pruner, chainsaw, weedwacker, leaf blower, etc.).
• Safely refill water tank from fire hydrants and water trees in times of drought.
• Test and amend soils for optimal growing conditions.
• Mulch trees, including correcting over-mulching.
• Install, remove, and correct staking and tree protection cages.
• Invasive vine and tree removal.
• Use the SC811 system to identify utility conflicts on the site before dig day. Verify a positive response for every site.
• Keep detailed notes on site conditions and accurate records in the maintenance log. 
• Inspect quality nursery stock from local nurseries that meets American Standard for Nursery Stock standards.
• Assist with setup and training demonstrations at large-scale projects.
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment.
• Maintain a positive attitude and excellent work ethic. 
• Represent TreesUpstate in the community in a professional manner. 
• Other duties as assigned.

What You’ll Learn:

• Arboriculture (tree planting, care & maintenance)
• Turf Management
• Landscaping
• Soil Management
• Job Applications
• Interviewing
• Professional Communication
• Financial Literacy
• Leadership
• Driver’s License (training not provided)
• And More…

What You’ll Walk Away With:

• Hands-OnTraining with Industry Professionals
• Network Connections in Green Industry
• Career & Life Skills
• Job Search Support
• Mentoring/Career Coaching

TreesUpstate affirms that inequality is detrimental to our staff, volunteers, and the communities we serve. We support a diverse and inclusive workplace where apprentices excel based on personal merit, qualifications, openness to learn, integrity, and job performance.