Tree Planter

FAQ

Your Questions Answered

Tree planting with Integrity is one of the toughest but most rewarding seasonal jobs in Canada. You’ll live and work in remote northern Ontario, facing challenging terrain, variable weather, and long days outdoors. We emphasize professionalism, teamwork, safety, and high-quality planting. It’s physically and mentally demanding, but also builds endurance, community, and pride in contributing to forest restoration.

How is the pay structured?

Planters are paid by piece work — per tree planted — which means your effort directly determines your earnings.

  • Prices range from 13.5¢ to 18¢ a tree.
  • Training is paid hourly.

After your first two training shifts, you must plant at least 1,200 trees per day. Pay is issued bi-weekly.
How do I track my work?

Each box of trees has a sticker showing the count. You’ll hand these stickers to your crew boss daily to record your production. Planters are encouraged to keep their own tally to compare with company records for accuracy and peace of mind.

In addition, planters track their daily production into tree-tracker pro, a mobile app developed exclusively for operations at our company.

Are there any deductions from my pay?

Yes. Deductions include:

  • Camp cost: $30 + HST per day (covers food, clean water, power, and camp amenities)
  • Equipment (optional):
  • Tree bags – $142.95 + HST
  • Shovel – $75.95 + HST
  • CPP and EI at standard government rates
  • Provincial and Federal income tax as per CRA requirements.

Click here for more information on deductions required by the CRA.
What is a typical work schedule?

The standard rotation is four days on, one day off, with occasional adjustments.
A typical workday looks like this:

  • 6:00 AM: Breakfast and lunch prep
  • 7:00 AM: Depart camp
  • 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Planting on the block
  • 6:00 PM: Dinner in camp
  • Evening: Free time and recovery

Most planters are in bed by 9:00 PM to stay rested.
What do days off look like?

Days off include a trip to town (laundry, groceries, supplies) and sometimes group recreation like hikes, lake days, or camp events. You’ll have around four hours in town and can use personal vehicles for flexibility.
What is camp life like?

You’ll live in a tent camp with shared amenities such as a kitchen, eating area, hot showers and laundry facilities. The company provides high-quality food, clean drinking water, lockers and power for charging devices. Expect rustic but organized living — cleanliness and cooperation are essential.
How does training work?

Training starts in camp with orientation, safety, and policy sessions, followed by hands-on field training led by crew bosses and quality inspectors. The first two shifts are dedicated to skill-building, learning planting techniques, reading land, and managing pace. Veterans may also join for refreshers.
What kind of support and leadership is there?

Each crew has a Crew Boss who trains planters, assigns pieces, checks quality, and manages logistics. Supervisors oversee camp operations, health, and safety. We also runs a Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) so every crew has a voice in safety matters.
What kind of trees will I plant?

You’ll mainly plant jack pine, red pine, black spruce, and white spruce. Your crew boss will teach you how to match species to soil types and manage proper spacing (usually six feet apart).
How can I prepare for the season?

Start getting in shape months in advance — endurance, core strength, and flexibility matter. Invest in quality gear (especially boots, tent, and rain gear), review the company’s packing list, and mentally prepare for long, repetitive physical work. Check out our blog on pre-season fitness for tree planters.
What kind of gear should I bring for the season?

You’ll need to be fully self-sufficient for living and working in remote camps for several months. Every planter is responsible for bringing their own camping, work, and personal gear.

Must-have items include:

  • A durable tent (large enough to stand in and fully waterproof)
  • A -20°C sleeping bag and sleeping pad
  • Steel-toe boots, hard hat, and hi-vis vest (mandatory PPE)
  • Reusable water containers (one large 8L jug + one small bottle)
  • Thermos, utensils, and Tupperware for meals
  • Bug repellent, sunscreen, baby powder, and Polysporin
  • Notebook and pen for tracking daily production

You’ll be given limited luggage space — one large duffel or hockey bag and one backpack — so pack smart and label everything clearly.
What kind of clothing should I bring for tree planting?

Your clothing will take a beating, so don’t bring anything you want to keep nice. Focus on durability, comfort, and weather protection.

For work:

  • Multiple light, breathable shirts (avoid thick cotton)
  • Thermal base layers for cold mornings
  • Leggings and gym shorts (often worn together)
  • Wool or bamboo socks – at least 20 pairs
  • Rain gear – waterproof coat and pants
  • Bug nets and buffs/headbands for protection
  • Work hoodies and layers you don’t mind destroying

For camp:

  • Comfy, warm clothes like sweatpants, hoodies, and T-shirts
  • A pair of non-work shoes or sandals for relaxing
  • Towels and pajamas for showering and sleeping
What kind of boots or shoes are best for tree planting?

Your boots are your most important piece of gear — they’ll make or break your season. You’ll walk up to 30 km a day carrying heavy bags, so choose wisely.

  • Steel-toe, waterproof boots are mandatory.
  • Invest in a high-quality pair with good ankle support from trusted brands like Red Wing, Keen Utility, Timberland PRO, or Caterpillar.
  • Break them in at least two weeks before the season to avoid blisters.
  • Some planters bring a second pair or steel-toe rubber boots for wet, muddy conditions.
  • Always keep your feet dry — rotate socks daily and use baby powder or Gold Bond to prevent friction and infection.
Apply now