Utility Arborist reference: 7e051cab99

Opportunity Review: Field Arborist (Tree Cutter)

Are you a skilled arborist with a passion for safety and a commitment to maintaining a reliable energy network? This Field Arborist (Tree Cutter) position with SSE offers a compelling opportunity to contribute to a vital service while advancing your career in a dynamic and forward-thinking environment. This review aims to highlight the key advantages and considerations for potential candidates, guiding you in assessing this role as a strategic step in your professional journey.

Advantages for Aspiring Professionals:

• Stable and Secure Sector: SSE is a major energy company with a clear vision for a net-zero future, investing significantly in its infrastructure. This role places you at the heart of maintaining that essential network, offering job security and the chance to be part of a critical national service.
• Competitive Remuneration and Benefits: The salary range of £29,504 - £34,757 is complemented by significant earning potential through overtime and standby payments (up to £8,262 annually, subject to qualifications). Furthermore, SSE provides a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your financial wellbeing, health, and family life, including discounts on private healthcare, gym memberships, a free online GP, and generous family entitlements.
• Field-Based Autonomy and Responsibility: This role is predominantly field-based, offering a degree of autonomy and the satisfaction of working outdoors. You'll be part of a skilled team entrusted with crucial responsibilities, directly impacting the safety and reliability of the power supply.
• Professional Development and Training: While previous experience is required, SSE's commitment to its network suggests ongoing opportunities for skill enhancement. The provided PPE and tools, along with access to a company vehicle, ensure you are well-equipped for your duties.
• Commitment to Safety: SSE places a high regard for safety, embedding it into its culture. This is an excellent opportunity for professionals who prioritize safety in all aspects of their work and want to contribute to an organization that champions it.
• Company Vehicle and Tools: The provision of a company vehicle and all necessary tools and PPE significantly reduces personal expenditure and ensures you have the resources needed to perform your job effectively and safely.
• Location Flexibility (with a requirement): With base locations in Reading, Slough, West London, or Basingstoke, candidates have some choice in their regional base. However, the key consideration is the requirement to be within a 30-minute commute of one of these depots, indicating the importance of localized coverage for this mobile role.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Field-Based and Mobile Nature: This is a predominantly field-based role. Candidates must be comfortable with a mobile working environment and understand that occasional overnight stays away from home may be required. This demands a flexible approach to work and living arrangements.
• Driving Licence Requirement: A current driving licence is essential for this role due to the travel involved. Candidates without a valid licence will not be considered.
• Specific Qualifications: The role specifies a need for previous experience in tree cutting, forestry, or arboriculture, along with relevant NPTC certificate units for chainsaw use and a qualification including NPTC UA. While similar capacity experience is considered, possessing these specific certifications will be a significant advantage. Experience with power lines and climbing is highly desirable.
• Adherence to Safety Protocols: Given the nature of working with power lines and vegetation, a very high regard for safety and strict adherence to guidelines are paramount. Candidates must be able to demonstrate a strong safety-conscious mindset.
• Commuting Distance: The requirement for your base 'home' location to be within a 30-minute commuting distance of the listed depots is a critical factor for all applicants.
• Application Process: Applications are accepted exclusively online. Successful candidates will undergo criminality and credit checks before employment commencement.

This Field Arborist role presents a fantastic opportunity for individuals with the right skills and a dedication to safety to join a leading energy company making substantial investments in a sustainable future. By carefully considering the requirements and advantages outlined above, potential candidates can make an informed decision about whether this role aligns with their career aspirations and personal circumstances.