Utility Arborist Chargehand

Ssen Distribution; Chalvey; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy provider in the UK seeks a Utility Arborist to manage tree cutting around its distribution network while ensuring safety is prioritized. This role offers a competitive salary of £34,749, with overtime potential and a range of benefits, including a company vehicle and PPE. Applicants should have experience in arboriculture and hold relevant certifications. Flexibility and a driving license are essential.

Benefits

PPE and tools provided

Access to a company vehicle

Healthcare discounts

Wellbeing benefits like free online GP

Interest-free loans on tech and transport

Generous family entitlements

Qualifications

• Previous experience in forestry/arboriculture.
• Relevant NPTC certificate units for chainsaw use.
• Enthusiasm and flexibility in adapting to work priorities.
• Experience working near power lines is an advantage.
• Current driving licence required for travel.

Responsibilities

• Manage trees and vegetation around the distribution network.
• Evaluate, prepare, and carry out tree cutting works.
• Respond to high winds and storms affecting equipment.

Skills

Forestry/arboriculture experience

Chainsaw operation certification

Climbing experience

Safety awareness

Ability to travel

Job description

About the role

In this role you will work as part of a cyclical tree cutting programme 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. To see a snapshot of what a day in the life of a Utility Arborist looks like, please click on the link below:

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

Requirements

• Previous experience in forestry/arboriculture.
• Relevant NPTC certificate units for the use of chainsaws, and qualifications 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.

Company Overview

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.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: £34,749 – £ (plus a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing, and family)
• 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).
• London weighting allowance if based in Slough/London.
• Full PPE and tools required for the position.
• Access to a company vehicle.
• Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time, 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.
• Generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.