Wilson Tree Surgery is offering an opportunity to train in professional tree care and vegetation management while working alongside experienced teams maintaining critical infrastructure.
You’ll be part of a field-based team responsible for managing trees and vegetation around overhead power networks. This role is ideal for someone looking to gain qualifications while working in a rewarding, outdoor environment for an in-demand and expanding sector.
Overview
Working alongside experienced arborists, you will help maintain vegetation around power infrastructure, ensuring safety and reliability across the network.
- Work area: sites across East Sussex and the surrounding counties
- Work hours & pattern: 40-48 hours/ week, Monday–Friday (variable depending on projects)
- Hourly pay: £8.00 - £12.71 (depending on experience/ age)
- Start date: September 2026
- Application closing date: 13 July 2026
Who are we
Wilson Tree Surgery was established in 2003 and offers a full tree and vegetation management service. Specialising in powerline clearance for utility companies and site clearance for commercial clients our teams also provide a full range of professional tree surgery and arboriculture services.
Over two decades Wilsons have built a solid reputation for our efficient and safe approach delivering a quality service for our clients. Our aim is to do the best quality job in the safest possible way, this not only delivers the best service to our clients but also provides a great place to work for all our staff and operatives.
We have grown over the years from one small team to over 20 cutting teams and a fleet of specialist plant & equipment. We are respectful and considerate of our local community, always aiming to act in a safe, ethical and sustainable fashion.
Roles & Responsibilities
No two days will be the same, however as part of your apprenticeship, you will:
- Assist with tree maintenance and removal work
- Help manage vegetation near overhead powerlines
- Operate tools and machinery such as chippers and saws
- Support climbing teams and learn aerial techniques
- Follow strict safety procedures in live environments
Training Provider: Plumpton College
Your apprenticeship will be delivered through Plumpton College, combining practical experience with structured learning.
Qualifications Gained:
- Level 2 Arborist Standard
- Chainsaw operations (maintenance & cross-cutting)
- Climbing techniques and aerial rescue
- Emergency First Aid certification
- Traffic management accreditation
- MEWP operation
Structure of learning:
- Scheduled monthly training blocks (3 days each)
- Mix of theory and hands-on practical sessions
- Ongoing workplace assessments
Areas of study:
- Tree biology, identification and maintenance
- Legal/environmental compliance
- Safe climbing and aerial work
- Utility arboriculture safety practices
- Working at height
- Environmental regulations and protected areas
- Identifying disease and tree defects
What We’re Looking For
The role is ideal for individuals who:
- Enjoy working outdoors in varied environments
- Are physically capable and willing to take on manual tasks
- Have a positive attitude and strong work ethic
- Communicate well and value teamwork
- Take pride in doing a job safely and properly
Qualifications:
- GCSE Maths & English Grade 4 preferred (or willingness to complete Functional Skills)
- Basic chainsaw/ woodchipper tickets are desirable but not essential
Career Progression
This apprenticeship can open doors to:
- Full-time employment after completion
- Specialist arboriculture or utility roles
- Climbing and technical positions
- Team leader and supervisory pathways
- Further qualifications and certifications
Things to Consider
- You’ll be working outdoors in all weather
- The work can be physically demanding
- Early starts during busy periods
- Must have access to own personal transport
- This apprenticeship is approximately 18 months.
Eligibility:
- Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years
- Must have the right to work in the UK
- Must not be in full-time education
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
