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Our Arborist teams help to ensure that during bad weather, trees do not fall on power lines. Working with highly skilled teams, they clear trees and vegetation in proximity to our overhead transmission and distribution network, ultimately keeping the lights on for our customers.

We're growing our team and looking for people who love being outdoors and have experience climbing or working at height. If you have previous experience in tree cutting, forestry or arboriculture that's a bonus, although full training will be given.

Learn more about our Arborist Opportunities

Utility Arborist Field Manager

  • 555214
  • Closing at: Sep 16 2025 - 23:55 BST

Base Location: Oban / Dunoon

Salary: £38,966 - £45,905 + a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing and family.

Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time| Flexible First options available

The role

To ensure the network continues to run effectively, we are looking to recruit a Field Manager into our existing team based in Oban and providing services across the Tayside Region.  The Field Manager will be responsible for the management of our Argyll South Utility Arborist teams who are clearing vegetation from around our overhead network.

If you enjoy working outdoors, this is your chance to contribute to the maintenance of our overhead distribution network, through a rolling programme of sustainable tree clearance.

You will

- Detail the safest & most efficient work method for each site and make up work packs for the tree cutters with maps & other relevant documentation.

- Assist in the development and implementation of a 'best-in-class' team of utility arborists whilst undertaking a range of auditing activities focussing on safety, quality and service.

- Assist in coordinating key projects on site involving complex or challenging situations including storm response work.

- Work with the tree cutting management group to identify efficient ways of working whilst maintaining highest standards of safety and providing great customer service.

You will have

- Previous experience of working within the forestry or arboriculture industry; an understanding of the Distribution Network and experience working within the utilities sector would be beneficial. 

- An NPTC UA certificate of competence would be an advantage and relevant NPTC units for the use of chainsaws is essential.

- A flexible, self-motivated approach and the ability to work as part of a team and on your own initiative.  Previous experience of supervising teams of both direct staff and contractors is essential

- Good planning and organisational skills to enable you to plan and deliver the team programme, on time and within budget.

- The ability to risk assess activities throughout your working day and promote our safe working culture across the team, championing SSE’s safety culture.

About SSE

SSE has a bold ambition – to be a leading energy company in a net zero world. We're investing around £10 million a day in homegrown energy to help power a cleaner, more secure future.

SSEN Distribution, part of the wider SSE group, powers 3.9 million UK homes and businesses. Our team of more than 4,200 skilled engineers, customer service advisors and energy experts keep customers connected to a safe, reliable supply of electricity while investing in and developing the flexible networks needed for our low carbon future.

Flexible benefits to fit your life

Enjoy discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships. Wellbeing benefits like a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service. Interest-free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle to Work scheme. As well as generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.

Work with an equal opportunity employer

SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure that your application and experience with us is positive. Please contact Hannah on hannah.e.cutajar@sse.com / 01738 341147 to discuss how we can support you.

We're dedicated to fostering an open and inclusive workplace where people from all backgrounds can thrive. We create equal opportunities for everyone to succeed and especially welcome applications from those who may not be well represented in our workforce or industry.

Ready to apply?

Start your online application using the Apply Now box on this page. We only accept applications made online. We'll be in touch after the closing date to let you know if we'll be taking your application further. If you're offered a role with SSE, you'll need to complete a criminality check and a credit check before you start work.

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Our Benefits

  • 34 days of annual leave with the option to purchase up to 10 days holiday
  • 24/7 free and confidential employee counselling service
  • Sharesave Scheme
  • Private healthcare discounts
  • Subsidised gym memberships
  • Generous family entitlements including adoption leave, paternity leave and gradual return to work for new parents
  • Flexible working opportunities
  • Interest-free loans on tech and transport season tickets
  • And much more…


Explore our full list of benefits:

UK benefits booklet

ROI Benefits Booklet

NI Benefits Booklet

Apply Now

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Not You?

We have emailed you a code to verify your identity. Please check your spam/junk folder if you don't receive the email in your inbox.

Thank you