Arborist Chargehand
Possible
Sponsorship likelihood
This job is eligible only on a shortage list
£33,400
Going rate
Skilled Worker going rate
This role likely qualifies for a Skilled Worker visa
SOC 5119 (85% match) is an eligible occupation, with a going rate of £33,400, and Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks is a licensed sponsor. That is our reading of the rules. Whether they issue a Certificate of Sponsorship is still their call.
Worth checking: this could also be SOC 9112 (Forestry and related workers, If the chargehand role is primarily hands-on tree cutting rather than leading), which is not on the eligible-occupation list. Ask Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks what the duties actually are.
New graduate or PhD holder? Pick one of the lower rates.
What each route needs for this job
| Occupation code | New entrant 70% of going rate | STEM PhD 80% of going rate | Relevant PhD 90% of going rate | Standard rate 100% of going rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
5119 Agricultural and fishing trades not elsewhere classified Most likely code | £33,400 Clears | £33,400 Clears | £33,400 Clears | £33,400 Clears |
We use the lowest threshold across the plausible codes. Likelihood is Possible at most when the pay clears only a lower rate, or only under a less likely code. A mark is for the top of the advertised pay. How the Home Office picks the code
About the role
This role is mobile and predominantly field based, and we require your base 'home' location to be within 30 minutes of the depots listed above.
Salary: £36,139 - £43,188 + a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing, and family
Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time
We are looking for a Utility Arboriculture chargehand to join our busy team!
In this role you will work as part of a cyclical tree cutting programme and on more reactive, customer focussed work. As a leader within the team, you will help us manage trees & vegetation around our distribution network. Safety is at the forefront of all activities at SSE, and you will work with your team to evaluate, prepare, and carry out tree cutting works on a variety of sites and voltages.
In addition to your daily role, during high winds and storms, trees can contact our equipment and cause power cuts, and so we cut them down or trim them back to keep the lights on.
You Have
- Previous experience in forestry/arboriculture.
- Relevant NPTC certificate units for the use of chainsaws, and a qualification including NPTC UAs.
- Enthusiasm and drive with a flexible approach to work and an ability to adapt to changing business and project priorities.
- Previous climbing experience is essential, and experience working near power lines would be an advantage.
- A high regard for safety, embedding yourself in our safety culture and adhering to guidelines in everything you do is a key priority.
About SSE
SSE’s purpose is to be restless every day until we make electricity clean, affordable and available for all.
We do this by developing, building, operating and investing in electricity infrastructure and businesses needed in the energy transition. This includes electricity transmission and distribution networks, onshore and offshore wind farms, hydro-electric power and flexible thermal generation. We also provide products and services for businesses and other customers.
Our investment plan will see SSE invest £33bn in critical electricity infrastructure to 2030.
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 technical specialists 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
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 [email protected] 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.
This description is the source posting as it read when we added it. We are not affiliated with Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks, so check their own site for the current details.
Where this offer sits in the market
Agricultural and fishing trades not elsewhere classified (SOC 5119) · UK · ONS ASHE 2025 · basic pay · ~16k in sample- Middle half £27,248–36,400
- Median £30,316
- Minimum £41,700
- Going rate £33,400
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Browse more sponsored jobs at Scottish and Southern Electricity NetworksAbout sponsorship for this role
Does this job guarantee visa sponsorship?
Not necessarily. Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks holds a sponsor licence, but sponsorship for a specific hire is always the employer's decision. Be upfront in your application that you'll require it.
What salary is needed for this role to be eligible?
The offer must clear both the general threshold and the SOC 5119 going rate of £33,400. New-entrant and shortage discounts can lower it.