Seasonal Arborist Trainee

At Wachtel Tree Science, we are passionate about trees, science, and the people who care for them. Our team provides professional tree care services across southeastern Wisconsin, combining advanced arboricultural science with practical field experience.

Our culture is built around five CORE values that guide everything we do:

• Safety – Protecting our team, clients, and environment is always our first priority.
• Initiative – We encourage curiosity, leadership, and proactive learning.
• Passion – We love what we do and take pride in improving the health and beauty of landscapes.
• Innovation – We apply modern arboricultural science and continuously seek better solutions.
• Team – We support one another and work together to deliver exceptional service.

Internship Overview

The Wachtel Tree Science Internship provides hands-on experience across all areas of a professional commercial tree care company. Interns gain exposure to multiple career paths within arboriculture while working alongside experienced arborists, consultants, and plant health care specialists.

This internship is designed for students or individuals interested in urban forestry, arboriculture, horticulture, environmental science, or landscape management.

What You’ll Experience

Interns will rotate through multiple departments to gain a well-rounded understanding of the industry.

Consulting & Tree Assessment

• Assist with tree inspections and risk assessments
• Learn tree identification and health diagnostics
• Observe consulting arborists working with clients and municipalities

Sales & Client Relations

• Shadow arborists and sales staff during property visits
• Learn how proposals and tree care plans are developed
• Understand client communication and service recommendations

Plant Health Care (PHC)

• Assist with soil care, fertilization, and pest/disease management
• Learn integrated pest management techniques
• Gain experience with tree health monitoring and treatment planning

Tree & Landscape Operations

• Work with crews performing pruning, removals, and tree preservation
• Learn proper pruning techniques and safety procedures
• Assist with job site setup, equipment use, and ground operations

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on arboriculture experience
• Exposure to multiple career paths within tree care
• Mentorship from experienced arborists and industry professionals
• Professional networking opportunities
• A strong understanding of how a commercial tree care company operates

Ideal Candidate

We are looking for individuals who align with our CORE values and demonstrate:

• Interest in trees, urban forestry, or environmental stewardship
• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn
• Positive attitude and ability to work as part of a team
• Initiative and curiosity about the arboriculture industry
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions

Students pursuing degrees in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Environmental Science, Landscape Management, or related fields are encouraged to apply.

Why Intern at Wachtel Tree Science?

This internship offers a rare opportunity to experience every side of the arboriculture industry—from field work to consulting and plant health care—while working with a team that values Safety, Initiative, Passion, Innovation, and Teamwork.

If you are interested in building a career in tree care, this internship will give you the knowledge, skills, and professional connections to get started.