Wilson Tree Surgery is offering an exciting opportunity to start your career as a Utility Arborist Apprentice, working primarily across East Sussex. If you enjoy practical work, being outside, and want to gain industry-recognised qualifications, this role provides a strong foundation in a growing sector.
The Opportunity
- Location: sites across Kent (with travel across surrounding areas)
- Hours: 40 - 48 hours per week, Monday to Friday (site-dependent)
- Pay: £8.00 – £12.71 per hour (age and experience dependent)
- Start date: September 2026
- Application deadline: 13 July 2026 (early interviews may take place)
About the Employer
A respected contractor working in partnership with UK Power Networks, specialising in arboriculture near live electrical assets. Our teams operate across Sussex and the South East, delivering high safety and technical standards.
What will the apprentice be doing?
- Tree maintenance and management and removal work
- Vegetation management near overhead powerlines
- Operate tools and machinery such as woodchippers and saws
- Support climbing teams & learn aerial techniques
- Follow safety procedures in the field
Delivered by Plumpton College, a leading land-based training provider in Sussex.
You will gain:
- Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship
- Chainsaw maintenance and cross-cutting
- Tree climbing and aerial rescue techniques
- Emergency First Aid at Work certification
- Traffic management training
- MEWP (Mobile Elevated Work Platform) operation
Training Format:
- Monthly 3-day block release sessions
- Combination of practical and classroom-based learning
- Regular on-site assessments
You’ll also develop knowledge in:
- Tree species identification
- Environmental legislation (including TPOs)
- Pest and disease recognition
- Safe working practices and risk assessment
- Arboricultural techniques and equipment use
- Electrical hazard awareness
The apprentice will learn:
- Tree biology, growth and care
- Tree identification (common & scientific names)
- Pest, disease and defect recognition
- Environmental and legal requirements (TPOs, conservation areas)
- Safe working practices and risk assessments
- Tree felling, pruning and processing
- Working at height (climbing + MEWP)
- Electrical safety awareness around power networks
What We’re Looking For
We’re keen to hear from individuals who are:
- Enthusiastic about outdoor, physical work
- Dependable and willing to learn
- Comfortable working as part of a team
- Safety-focused with a good level of awareness
- Motivated to develop a long-term career
Entry Requirements:
- GCSE Maths and English (Grade 4 preferred)
- Willingness to complete Functional Skills if required
- Previous tickets (chainsaw/chipper) beneficial but not essential
Future Career Path
This apprenticeship can lead to:
- Permanent employment within the company
- Specialist arborist or utility roles
- Progression into climbing or leadership positions
- Further training and advanced qualifications
Important Information
- Outdoor role in all weather conditions
- Physically demanding work
- Early starts may be required
- Own transport is essential due to rural sites
- Approximate duration: 18 months
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must have lived in the UK for 3+ years
- Have the right to work in the UK
- Not currently be in full-time education
- Must live locally or be able to relocate
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £8.00-£12.71 per hour
Benefits:
Application question(s):
- Do you hold a full UK Driving License, and if yes, do you have your own transport?
- Why do you wish to enter the arboriculture sector?
Work Location: In person
