Utility Arborist reference: fe7511980a

SSE is seeking dedicated and skilled Utility Arborists to join their dynamic team, offering a compelling opportunity for professionals looking to contribute to a vital sector. This role is ideal for individuals with a passion for arboriculture and a commitment to safety, particularly in the context of essential utility infrastructure.

What the Role Offers:

• Competitive Remuneration: A solid base salary ranging from £29,504 to £34,757, dependent on experience. This is further enhanced by significant earning potential through overtime and standby payments, with the possibility of an additional £8,262 per year.
• Work-Life Balance & Practical Support: A structured 37-hour working week ensures a predictable schedule. The company provides essential resources, including full PPE, tools, and a company vehicle, removing common out-of-pocket expenses for field-based roles.
• Career Development: This is a permanent, full-time position, offering stability and the chance to grow within a leading energy company. The job involves managing trees and vegetation near critical distribution networks, a crucial task for maintaining reliable power supply.
• Impactful Work: You will play a direct role in ensuring the continuity of power supply, especially during adverse weather conditions. This involves evaluating, preparing, and executing tree cutting works, directly contributing to public safety and service reliability.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: SSE offers a wide array of benefits designed to support your family, finances, and overall wellbeing. This includes discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships, access to wellbeing services like an online GP and counselling, and financial support through interest-free loans for tech and transport. Family entitlements such as generous maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave are also provided.

Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:

• Location Requirements: While the role is mobile and predominantly field-based, candidates must have their primary residence within 30 minutes of the Andover or Salisbury depots. A current driving licence is essential for travel requirements.
• Essential Qualifications & Experience: Proven experience in forestry, arboriculture, or a related field is a must. Essential certifications include relevant NPTC certificate units for chainsaw use and a qualification including NPTC and UAs (Utility Arborist). Experience working with power lines and climbing skills are highly advantageous and will strengthen your application.
• Safety First Culture: SSE places a paramount importance on safety. Candidates must demonstrate a high regard for safety protocols and a willingness to embed themselves within the company's safety culture.
• Adaptability and Drive: The role demands enthusiasm, drive, and a flexible approach. You should be comfortable adapting to changing business needs and project priorities, particularly given the cyclical nature of the tree-cutting program and potential emergency response during storms.
• Team Leadership Opportunity: Roles are available for both Utility Arborist Team Leaders and Operatives, providing pathways for those with leadership aspirations and experience.

SSE is at the forefront of the energy transition, with ambitious plans for a net-zero future. By joining SSE, you will be part of a company investing heavily in renewable energy and transforming the grid. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking a challenging yet rewarding career that makes a tangible difference. SSE is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and encourages applications from all backgrounds.