Arborist Chargehand

SSE plc; Swindon; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private healthcare discounts

Cycle to Work scheme

Maternity and paternity pay

Job summary

SSE plc is seeking a Utility Arboriculture chargehand to lead our tree cutting programme across the distribution network from a base in Swindon or Oxford. You will manage a crew in field operations, focusing on safety and timely delivery of both planned and reactive work.

The role requires climbing experience, NPTC chainsaw certificates, and a valid driving licence, with flexibility for travel and working near power lines to keep the lights on.

Qualifications

• Experience in forestry/arboriculture.
• NPTC certificate units for chainsaws and NPTC UA qualification.
• Climbing experience required; safety-focused work near power lines is a bonus.
• Valid driving licence required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a cyclical tree cutting programme as part of the team.
• Carry out field-based tree and vegetation work around the distribution network.
• Ensure safety is at the forefront and supervise crew activities on varied sites.
• Support during high winds/storm events to maintain power supply.

Skills

Forestry/arboriculture

Climbing experience

Safety culture

Chainsaw operation

Education

NPTC certificate units for chainsaws

NPTC UA qualification

Job description

Base Location: Swindon or Oxford

This role is mobile and predominantly field based, and we require your base 'home' location to be within 30 minutes of the depots listed above.

Salary: £36,139 - £43,188 + a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing, and family

Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time

We are looking for a Utility Arboriculture chargehand to join our busy team!

In this role you will work as part of a cyclical tree cutting programme and on more reactive, customer focussed work. As a leader within the team, you will help us manage trees & vegetation around our distribution network. Safety is at the forefront of all activities at SSE, and you will work with your team to evaluate, prepare, and carry out tree cutting works on a variety of sites and voltages.

In addition to your daily role, during high winds and storms, trees can contact our equipment and cause power cuts, and so we cut them down or trim them back to keep the lights on.

You have:

• Previous experience in forestry/arboriculture.
• Relevant NPTC certificate units for the use of chainsaws, and a qualification including NPTC UAs.
• Enthusiasm and drive with a flexible approach to work and an ability to adapt to changing business and project priorities.
• Previous climbing experience is essential, and experience working near power lines would be an advantage.
• A high regard for safety, embedding yourself in our safety culture and adhering to guidelines in everything you do is a key priority.

Travel is required and as a result we can only accept applications from candidates that hold a current driving licence.

About SSE

SSE’s purpose is to be restless every day until we make electricity clean, affordable and available for all.

We do this by developing, building, operating and investing in electricity infrastructure and businesses needed in the energy transition. This includes electricity transmission and distribution networks, onshore and offshore wind farms, hydro-electric power and flexible thermal generation. We also provide products and services for businesses and other customers.

Our investment plan will see SSE invest £33bn in critical electricity infrastructure to 2030.

SSEN Distribution, part of the wider SSE group, powers 3.9 million UK homes and businesses. Our team of more than 4,200 skilled engineers, customer service advisors and technical specialists keep customers connected to a safe, reliable supply of electricity while investing in and developing the flexible networks needed for our low carbon future.

Flexible benefits to fit your life

Enjoy discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships. Wellbeing benefits like a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service. Interest‑free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle to Work scheme. As well as generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.

Work with an equal opportunity employer

SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure that your application and experience with us is positive. Please contact [e-mail] to discuss how we can support you.

We're dedicated to fostering an open and inclusive workplace where people from all backgrounds can thrive. We create equal opportunities for everyone to succeed and especially welcome applications from those who may not be well represented in our workforce or industry.