Tree Surgeon / Arborist

Location: Polegate (BN) or Maidstone (ME)
Salary: £125-£150 per day (dependent on experience)
Overtime Rates:

• 1.5x hourly rate for evening and Saturday work
• 2x hourly rate for Sunday work

Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00am - 5:00pm (9.5-hour working day)
Flexibility is required to work overtime, including evenings and weekends, when business needs demand.

About the Role

Our Client is seeking a skilled and motivated Tree Surgeon / Arborist to join their professional arboricultural team. The successful candidate will be responsible for carrying out a wide range of tree climbing and tree surgery operations safely, efficiently, and to the highest industry standards.
This role requires excellent technical arboricultural knowledge, a strong commitment to health and safety, and the ability to provide outstanding customer service while representing the company professionally at all times.

Key Responsibilities

Tree Climbing & Tree Surgery

• Safely undertake all aspects of tree climbing and aerial tree work in line with training, qualifications, and industry best practices..
• Work in accordance with:
  • BS3998: Tree Work Recommendations
  • Arboricultural Association Technical Guides
  • Company policies, procedures, and safety standards.
• Undertake:
  • Tree climbing and aerial rescue operations
  • Use of tools and equipment within the canopy
  • Rigging and sectional dismantling techniques
  • Mobile crane-assisted tree operations
  • Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) operations
• Operate and maintain arboricultural equipment including chainsaws, ropes, harnesses, rigging equipment, chippers, and MEWPs.
• Maintain a high standard of workmanship and attention to detail on every project.
• Participate in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to remain current with legislation, industry standards, safety requirements, and professional best practices.
• Maintain competency in aerial rescue procedures and attend refresher training where required.

Teamwork & Site Operations

• Work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Support colleagues to ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
• Clearly communicate felling plans, work methods, and site hazards to team members.
• Contribute to a positive team culture focused on safety, professionalism, and quality.

Customer Service & Communication

• Deliver excellent customer service at all times.
• Communicate professionally and courteously with clients, stakeholders, and members of the public.
• Represent the company positively through professional conduct, appearance, and workmanship.

Health & Safety

• Comply with all relevant health and safety legislation, risk assessments, and safe systems of work.
• Correctly use and maintain Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Follow manufacturer and company guidelines when operating machinery and equipment.
• Identify and report hazards, defects, incidents, or safety concerns promptly to the Team Leader or Supervisor.
• Promote a proactive safety culture across all work sites.

Equipment & Asset Management

• Take full responsibility for allocated climbing and operational equipment.
• Ensure all tools and equipment are properly maintained, clean, safe, and ready for use.
• Prepare equipment for LOLER inspections and maintain records where required.
• Remove defective equipment from service immediately and report faults to management.
• Store equipment securely and in accordance with company procedures.

General Duties

• Maintain clean, organised, and professional work sites.
• Ensure all arisings, debris, and waste materials are cleared appropriately.
• Demonstrate punctuality, reliability, and a strong work ethic.
• Maintain a professional appearance, adhering to company uniform, dress code, and hygiene standards.
• Undertake any additional reasonable duties within the scope of the role.

Essential Qualifications

• NPTC CS30 - Chainsaw Maintenance & Cross Cutting
• NPTC CS31 - Small Tree Felling
• NPTC CS38 - Tree Climbing & Aerial Rescue
• NPTC CS39 - Use of a Chainsaw from a Rope & Harness
• CSCS Card
• Woodchipper Certificate

Desirable Qualifications

• NPTC CS32 - Medium Tree Felling
• NPTC CS40 - Pruning Operations
• NPTC CS47 - Use of a Chainsaw from a MEWP
• IPAF / MEWP Qualification
• Strimmer Certificate

What We're Looking For

• Experienced and confident tree climber with strong practical arboricultural skills.
• Excellent understanding of current arboricultural best practice and safety requirements.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Reliable, self-motivated, and professional approach to work.
• Ability to work outdoors in a physically demanding environment.
• Flexible approach to working hours, including overtime when required.

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