Utility Arborist

SSE plc; Scotland; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy company is seeking an Arborist/Tree-cutter to manage vegetation near their distribution network in the UK. Candidates should have experience in tree cutting and relevant qualifications. This full-time position offers a salary between £29,504 and £34,757, with additional benefits including overtime payments and access to a company vehicle. Safety is a top priority, and flexibility is required for potential travel.

Benefits

Private healthcare discounts

Gym membership discounts

Interest-free loans on tech and transport

Generous family entitlements

Qualifications

• Previous experience in tree cutting, forestry, or arboriculture.
• Relevant NPTC certificate units for the use of chainsaws.
• Enthusiasm and drive with a flexible approach to work.

Responsibilities

• Manage trees and vegetation near the distribution network.
• Evaluate, prepare, and carry out tree cutting works.
• Ensure adherence to safety guidelines.

Skills

Tree cutting experience

Chainsaw qualifications (NPTC)

Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities

Experience with power lines

Safety awareness

Education

Relevant NPTC certificate units

Job description

Base Location: Elgin, Huntly or Aberdeen

Salary: £29,504 - £34,757 + a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing, and family

Plus:

• 37 hour working week.
• Up to £4,442 for overtime payments & up to £3,820 for standby payments, giving you a potential of £8,262 extra per year (subject to qualifications).
• Full PPE and tools required for the position.
• Access to a company vehicle.

Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time

We are looking for an Arborist/Tree‑cutter to join our busy team!

Being part of a cyclical tree cutting programme, you will work with a highly skilled team to manage trees & vegetation near our distribution network. Working with safety at the forefront of all activities, you will work with your team to evaluate, prepare and carry out tree cutting works on a variety of sites.

We invest millions every year to make sure that our network is in the best condition possible to minimise the risk of power cuts and to ensure the safety of the public. 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. As well as installing the latest technologies and carrying out regular maintenance, we have our in‑house tree‑cutting team to make sure that trees and vegetation are kept away from our overhead lines and equipment.

To see a snapshot of what a day in the life of a Tree‑cutter looks like, please click on the link below:

https://careers.sse.com/arborist-roles

You have:

• Previous experience in tree cutting, forestry or arboriculture
• Relevant NPTC certificate units for the use of chainsaws, and a qualification or certificates including NPTC, UAs.
• Enthusiasm and drive with a flexible approach to work and an ability to adapt to changing business and project priorities; you may have to work away from home occasionally, so this is key.
• Experience of working with power lines, and climbing would be highly advantageous.
• 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 has a bold ambition – to be a leading energy company in a net zero world. We're investing around £10 million a day in homegrown energy to help power a cleaner, more secure future.

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 energy experts 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] / 01738 340954 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.

Ready to apply?

Start your online application using the Apply Now box on this page. We only accept applications made online. We'll be in touch after the closing date to let you know if we'll be taking your application further. If you're offered a role with SSE, you'll need to complete a criminality check and a credit check before you start work.