Arborist Trainee Internship — Dulles

Job overview

The Arborist Trainee Internship is an onsite, field-based role in Sterling, VA, serving the Dulles area. Compensation is $22–$23 per hour. The internship introduces students to Davey’s green-industry career pathways and supports tree care, landscape, and plant health services. Working alongside experienced arborists, climbers, plant health care technicians, and landscape professionals, the trainee learns field practices and client service. The internship builds practical skills in tree care, landscape installation, equipment safety, plant health care, and the business operations of a residential tree care office.

What you'll do

• Learn tree pruning, removal, cabling, bracing, and maintenance
• assist with tree and landscape installation
• learn safe operation of chainsaws, chippers, and other field tools
• gain exposure to plant health care, including deep-root fertilization, soil care, and integrated pest and disease management
• learn about residential tree care office operations, client service, sales, management, and leadership fundamentals.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

arborist trainee internship

dulles va

sterling va

tree care

plant health care

landscape installation

field-based

spring–summer 2027

$22–$23/hour

monday–friday

some saturdays

up to 25% travel

davey tree

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Hands-on training and safety support
• climbing gear, uniforms, and PPE provided
• learning management system training
• virtual orientation
• regional summer intern workshops
• monthly check-in calls
• paid online learning during the school year
• potential work during school breaks at select locations.

Why this role

Internship begins in Spring–Summer 2027; schedule is 40–50 hours per week, Monday–Friday with some Saturdays. The posting lists up to 25% travel. Students studying arboriculture, urban forestry, natural resources, horticulture, landscape design, forestry, or a related discipline are sought; a driver’s license is required.

About the employer

The Davey Tree Expert Company is hiring for this role. Industry: Landscaping Services. Sector: 56.