Arborist / Machine Operator / Tree Surgeon

The Arborist Machine Operator is an experienced arborist (minimum 5 years) with strong technical skills in operating heavy machinery to assist in tree care operations, such as the Bobcat arb digger, grapple saw and other specialised equipment. The Operator will also be responsible for transporting machinery to various sites using a Mercedes Unimog, grain trailer and should be comfortable manoeuvring and handling heavy equipment for a variety of different environments. This position is ideal for a confident team leader who enjoys machinery operation and can effectively support arboriculture projects. For insurance purposes, the Operator must be 25 years old or older.

Responsibilities

• Project Planning and Execution: Plan and coordinate tree care projects, including pruning, removals, and health assessments. Ensure all projects are completed efficiently, on time, and to client satisfaction.
• Machinery Operation: Operate a Bobcat arb digger and other arboricultural equipment for skilled arborist tasks such as pruning, maintenance, removal, and site preparation.
• Transportation of Equipment: Safely transport machinery to job sites using a Mercedes Unimog, ensuring compliance with UK road regulations and safety standards. Conduct site inspections to determine work requirements and develop project plans, identifying potential hazards, and determining the best approach for using machinery safely and effectively.
• Organising and delegating to the staff on-site with the correct tools and equipment to ensure the job is carried out as efficiently and safely as possible in the given time frame. Ensure that the business is run as smoothly as possible and all staff work efficiently as part of a team.
• Team Leadership and Supervision: Lead, supervise, and motivate a team of arborists and ground crew. Assign tasks and responsibilities, ensuring team members understand and execute their roles. Responsible for the workload and allocated job sheets. Monitor team performance and provide feedback for continuous improvement. Provide training and mentorship to enhance team skills and knowledge. To work as part of a team undertaking a full range of tree work including pruning, felling, shaping, planting of trees, stump grinding, etc. using full safety and climbing equipment and to BS3998:2010 or current standards. Undertake tree works outside normal working hours as and when required in response to out-of-hours emergency call-outs. Groundsman duties as and when required.
• Safety and Compliance: Enforce safety protocols and ensure team compliance with industry standards and company policies. Conduct safety briefings and site-specific risk assessments before starting projects. Monitor work sites for potential hazards and implement corrective measures. Day-to-day health and safety compliance. Respond to emergencies and manage on-site incidents effectively. Ensure that work is carried out effectively to achieve quality and financial objectives, ensuring the safety of all members of staff and the public at all times. Responsible for undertaking arboricultural works following legislation, especially concerning working on or close to the highway and putting out and collecting all road signs following Chapter 8 of the Highways Act. Ensure appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn at all times and by all staff. Ensuring that all work is carried out safely and conscientiously in accordance with our quality policy.
• Quality Control: Maintain high standards of workmanship and service quality. Inspect completed work to ensure it meets company standards and client expectations. Address any issues or complaints promptly and professionally. Document before/after photos on council contract work.
• Client Interaction: Communicate with clients to understand their needs and provide professional advice on tree care. Assist with quotes and estimates for tree work projects. Ensure client satisfaction by delivering exceptional service and addressing any concerns.
• Vehicles, Machinery, Equipment, tools and Site Management: Ensure all machinery, tools and equipment are properly maintained to ensure operational readiness and safety. Manage site preparation, debris removal, and cleanup activities. Utilise all mechanical equipment, machinery and hand tools following relevant arboricultural operations. Maintain all mechanical equipment and machinery used in connection with the work in a clean condition and set up machinery before use to ensure effective operation. When required to drive allocated vehicles following the requirements of the Highway Code. Check the vehicle and related plant items daily before leaving the depot this includes the following checks, oil, water, fuel, lights, tyres, brake and other requirements including power mechanisms.
• Documentation and Reporting: Ensuring risk assessments are in order, that site organisation and work are to the required standard and reporting any defective systems/equipment that could prejudice safe work. Maintain accurate records of work performed, including tree hazard identification and site conditions. Prepare reports on job progress, team performance, and safety compliance. Document any incidents or accidents and report them to management. PUWER & LOLER reporting.

Qualifications

• Preferred academic qualifications Level 3 in Arboriculture
• Felling and processing trees up to 380mm in diameter (CS31)
• Felling and processing trees over 380mm diameter (CS32/CS33)
• Woodchipper
• Desirable qualifications and training CPCS A77 Telescopic Handler (can be provided, if not available)
• IOSH working safely
• Forestry Commission OPMSafety Critical Medical (SEQOHS Accredited)
• Register of Land-based Operations (ROLO)
• Construction Skills Certification Scheme and Landscaping (CSCS/LISS)
• Accessing a tree using a rope and harness and aerial tree rescue operations (CS38)

Essential Health and safety qualifications

• First Aid at Work or Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW)
• A current full clean driving licence and ability to operate company vehicles

Preferred wider skills

• Good communication
• Delivering projects within allotted timeframes and budgets
• Time management and organisation
• Teamwork, patience and collaboration
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Conflict resolution and negotiation
• Leadership and team coordination.
• Safety management and risk assessment.
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Customer service and client relations.
• Technical knowledge of arboricultural equipment and practices.

Preferred experience

• Minimum of 5 years Arboricultural experience
• Have relevant Arboricultural experience

Working Conditions:

• Outdoor work in various weather conditions.
• Physical demands including lifting heavy objects.
• Exposure to potentially hazardous equipment and materials.
• Potential for weekend and emergency work.

Personalised work environment: As a smaller company we foster a close-knit, family-like atmosphere where employees feel more valued and appreciated.

Direct staff benefits: Personalised Equipment and PPE selection through being responsible for your own PPE budget & opportunity to join in a Company Pension.

Direct communication: With fewer layers of management, our communication is more direct and effective, enabling faster decision-making and problem-solving.

Varied responsibilities: Our employees have the opportunity to learn and grow into a variety of roles, providing opportunities to learn new skills and gain diverse experience.

Stronger team bonds: working in a smaller team can lead to stronger camaraderie and better teamwork, enhancing job satisfaction and collaboration.

Visible impact: employees can see the direct impact of their work on the company's success, which can be highly motivating and rewarding.

Opportunities for growth: there are more opportunities for rapid career progression as our employees take on more responsibilities and demonstrate their capabilities.

Community focus: we have a strong presence in our local communities, providing a sense of pride and connection to the area.

Innovative culture: with less bureaucracy, we can be more innovative and open to new ideas from all team members.