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- Tasks: Lead a team in delivering top-notch vegetation services and ensure equipment is well-maintained.
- Company: Join BSW Group, the UK's largest timber and forestry business with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, health plan, 31 days holiday, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the forestry industry while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in a similar role, leadership skills, and relevant certifications preferred.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a strong emphasis on safety and sustainability.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
Machine Operator / Supervisor – Southern England and across UK. Permanent position, 48hrs, competitive salary with excellent benefits.
Responsibilities
- Deliver high-quality vegetation clearance, harvesting, coppicing and contracting services for clients.
- Assist in scoping works and preparation of method statements and risk assessments.
- Read and understand site plans and work according to written or verbal instructions.
- Operate in a clean and tidy manner, protecting the environment and avoiding pollution.
- Look after all equipment, keep it in a clean and undamaged state, and report any damage.
- Complete pre-start equipment checks and record findings.
- Carry out routine maintenance and lubrication of equipment.
- Operate any plant or equipment you are trained and competent to use, including owned or hired equipment and specialised attachments.
- Comply with Health and Safety at Work, LOLER, PUWER, COSHH and other environmental and quality standards.
- Anticipate operational issues and communicate to the client as needed.
- Ensure operations are delivered to clients\\\’ expectations and on schedule.
About you
- Self-motivated with the ability to lead by example, motivate and manage a small team.
- Have a passion for and pride in your work with a good understanding of current industry best practices.
- Preferably have:
- NPTC – Felling small trees to 300mm and cross cutting
- NPTC / Lantra – Woodchipper
- NPTC / Lantra – Brushcutter
- Forest Machine Operators Certification
- PA1/PA6
- First Aid
- Full, valid driving licence (preferably including B & E)
- 2+ years\\\’ experience in a similar role
- Ability to build and maintain strong working relationships
- CSCS Gold Card
- NVQ Level 3 in Arboriculture or similar
- CITB SSSTS
About BSW
BSW Group is the largest timber and forestry business in the UK, with operating divisions spanning the whole supply chain—from tree nurseries and woodland management to sawmilling and pallets. We market 35 million saplings annually, have planted a billion trees, supply sustainable timber products to various industries as BSW Timber, and manufacture millions of pallets as Scott Pallets. We work to keep industry moving and aim to be the most technically advanced timber business in the country. We leverage technology and cutting-edge practices to supply diverse demands of the UK, helping to build sustainable worlds.
Benefits
- Company provided health plan and Life Assurance policy
- Company sick pay, enhanced with length of service
- Company pension, with up to 10% company contributions
- 31 days holiday entitlement (inclusive of bank holidays)
- Funded learning and career development opportunities
- Discounted rate on a range of BSW products including Woodfuel Direct
- Employee benefits portal with exclusive deals and discounts
- Confidential 24/7 Wellbeing support
- Cycle to Work scheme
Interested? Click APPLY to be directed to our careers portal.
Closing date for applications: 30th November 2025
The Company’s Job Applicant Privacy Notice is available at www.bsw.co.uk/careers/terms
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Machine Operator/ Supervisor employer: Tilhill Harvesting
Contact Detail:
Tilhill Harvesting Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Machine Operator/ Supervisor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend local events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and understanding their values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in areas like health and safety compliance and team management.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring along any relevant certifications or examples of your work to interviews. This could be anything from your NPTC qualifications to photos of projects you've managed.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Machine Operator/ Supervisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Machine Operator/Supervisor role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in vegetation clearance and equipment operation. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your experience aligns with our values at BSW. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Certifications: If you've got any relevant certifications like NPTC or NVQ, make sure they’re front and centre in your application. We value qualifications that demonstrate your expertise and commitment to safety and quality.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our careers portal! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just click APPLY!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tilhill Harvesting
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Machine Operator/Supervisor. Brush up on your knowledge of vegetation clearance, equipment operation, and health and safety regulations. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past work that highlight your skills in leading a team, maintaining equipment, and delivering high-quality services. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and make them impactful.
✨Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the company’s operations or future projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
While it’s important to be professional, let your personality shine through. Companies like BSW value self-motivated individuals who can lead by example. Show your passion for the industry and your pride in your work during the conversation.