Tree Care Specialist

Moon Valley Nurseries•Gilroy, CA

4d•$25 - $35•Onsite

About The Position

Moon Valley Nurseries is seeking an experienced Tree Care Specialist/Arborist to provide in-home tree consultations, perform pruning, and recommend professional care to homeowners. The role combines hands-on climbing, pruning, and removal expertise with customer education and service. The specialist inspects tree health, structure, safety, soil, and drainage; identifies disease, pests, and nutritional issues; and recommends appropriate care, products, and services. The role also includes maintaining customer records and providing follow-up care. This is a full-time position based in Gilroy, California, with up to 50% travel and open availability for a day shift. The employee must obtain and maintain a valid Qualified Applicator License within 60 to 90 days of hire; Moon Valley Nurseries covers the cost of obtaining the license. Moon Valley Nurseries describes itself as the largest grower of box trees and palms in North America and an industry leader and high-growth company. It is expanding its Tree Care division and offers competitive salaries and employee benefits to eligible employees. The company is an equal employment opportunity employer and a drug-free workplace.

Requirements

At least 5 years of professional tree care experience or at least 3 years of crew management experience.
Proficiency in safe climbing techniques and tree rigging practices.
Strong communication and customer-facing experience.
Knowledge of Southwest tree species, desert climates, and regional plant health issues.
Ability to work independently, manage schedules, and provide follow-up care.
Clean driving record and eligibility for insurance by Moon Valley Nurseries' insurers; DOT health screen required.
Must pass a criminal background check in accordance with applicable fair chance laws.
Ability to recognize bugs, fungi, or pathogens in trees.
Ability to network and communicate to research more in-depth issues.
Must obtain and maintain a valid Qualified Applicator License within 60 to 90 days of hire; the company covers the cost of obtaining the license.
Ability to talk and hear; stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, and climb throughout the workday.
Frequently lift or move items weighing over 35 pounds.
Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in potentially extreme conditions, including rain, heat, sun, and wind.

Nice To Haves

ISA-certified arborist, or ability to obtain certification within a year.
Sales knowledge.
BS in Agriculture or Horticulture, or equivalent experience.

Responsibilities

Conduct tree inspections for health, structure, and safety.
Prune and shape trees using climbing and on-the-ground techniques.
Inspect soil and tree wells for proper drainage and water penetration.
Recommend watering schedules based on seasonal changes and tree needs.
Evaluate and identify signs of disease, pest infestations, and nutritional deficiencies.
Apply or recommend fertilization and treatment solutions.
Remove or adjust tree staking and inspect trunk caliper and strength.
Assess and maintain tree canopies for optimal growth and structure.
Wrap or paint trunks as needed to protect them from sunscald or pest damage.
Serve as a trusted advisor during on-site home consultations.
Recommend Moon Valley products and services aligned with customer needs.
Maintain and update notes in customer profiles or CRM systems.
Communicate clearly in person and by phone while providing high-level customer service.
Close on service and product recommendations as needed during visits.
Manage schedules independently and provide follow-up care.