Job Description

Job Overview

As

Team Leader / Lead Climber

, you will be responsible for leading a team of arborists in the safe and efficient delivery of professional tree work on commercial contracts. Working for an

ARB Approved Contractor

, you'll ensure that all operations meet the highest standards of safety, environmental compliance, and quality of workmanship in line with

BS3998

, industry best practice, and company procedures.

You will take a hands-on role as the

primary climber

, carrying out complex tree operations such as dismantling, reductions, and pruning, while also overseeing site organisation, client liaison, and mentoring junior staff.

Responsibilities

Lead a team of arborists and grounds staff on site. Conduct site-specific risk assessments and briefings (toolbox talks). Ensure safe working practices are followed at all times, in line with AFAG, LOLER, and PUWER regulations. Allocate tasks efficiently to meet productivity and quality targets. Act as the main point of contact on site for clients, the public, and management. Perform advanced climbing and aerial tree work, including dismantling, sectional felling, reductions, and pruning. Operate and oversee the use of chainsaws, rigging equipment, MEWPs, and wood chippers. Carry out ground operations when required (chipping, lowering, stump grinding). Ensure correct tree identification, pruning to BS3998, and appropriate arboricultural techniques. Lead by example in maintaining a strong health and safety culture. Conduct and record pre-site inspections and dynamic risk assessments. Ensure correct use, maintenance, and inspection of climbing and rigging kit in accordance with LOLER. Minimise environmental impact, adhering to site-specific environmental policies. Communicate effectively with clients, site supervisors, and office management. Record daily work progress, incidents, and completed tasks accurately. Report any issues affecting productivity, safety, or quality. Mentor and support junior climbers and ground staff. Identify skills gaps and provide feedback to management for team development. Maintain up-to-date qualifications and participate in regular training and refresher courses.

Essential Qualifications & Experience

NPTC / City & Guilds Certificates: Chainsaw Maintenance & Cross Cutting (CS30) Felling & Processing Small Trees (CS31) Climb Trees & Perform Aerial Rescue (CS38) Aerial Cutting Using a Chainsaw (CS39) Full UK Driving Licence (B + ideally BE) Proven experience in leading arboricultural teams on commercial contracts Strong understanding of BS3998 and modern arboricultural techniques Ability to read and interpret job specifications and site plans

Desirable Qualifications

Rigging and Dismantling (CS41) Use of Chainsaw from a MEWP (CS47) First Aid +F (Forestry) MEWP Operator (IPAF) Lantra Professional Tree inspector Level 3 Award or Diploma in Arboriculture (or working towards) LANTRA or NPTC Wood Chipper, Stump Grinder, Brushcutter Highways sector experience

Key Attributes

Strong leadership and communication skills High level of professionalism and client awareness Focused on safety, quality, and efficiency Positive attitude and commitment to teamwork Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in all conditions

Typical Working Conditions

Outdoor environment, all weather conditions Working at height, with chainsaws and heavy machinery Commercial and local authority contracts--roadside, construction, estate. Standard hours with overtime or emergency call-outs
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 13.00-15.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 - 65 per week

Benefits:

Additional leave Company car Company events Free parking On-site parking Referral programme Transport links
Work Location: In person