Machine Operator (Forestry & Vegetation Management)

Machine Operator (Forestry & Vegetation Management)

HW Martin Fencing and Forestry Limited

Job title: Machine Operator/Arborist

Location: Midlands / National

Salary: Competitive and dependant on experience

Additional benefits: Company Pension, Employee Assistance Programme, Life assurance.

Contract Type: Permanent

About HW Martin Fencing and Forestry Ltd

As specialists in fencing and vegetation management, we are used to working with leading civil engineering contractors, highway authorities and rail networks. Since 1996, we have concentrated much of our resources on the railway industry and have steadily increased our share of work to the point where we are now a principal contractor on over three quarters of the railway network.

We have also been providing a comprehensive range of vegetation management services and solutions for over 20 years. In recent years, we have introduced a dedicated ecology department and are now able to provide a complete package for ecological and vegetation management that enhances our capability to provide an efficient holistic service.

The Role:

The post holder will be expected to operate a wide variety of mechanised plant for both felling and processing of trees, including tracked 360s with multiple attachments (above 10 tonne) such as tree shears, grapple saws, and flails. They will also be familiar with driving and operating tractors with multiple attachments such as whole tree chippers, mulchers, flails, and towing trailers. Training will be provided to upskill competencies where required.

Along with operating multiple items of plant, the post holder will be expected to fell and process trees using chainsaws and felling tools such as felling bars and winches.

• Work as a motivated part of a team to undertake all required site clearance duties and forestry tasks to a high standard and in line with British standards.
• Meet the set targets for performance of the team outputs.
• Operate machinery safely and in accordance with Health and Safety executive and our policies and risk assessments.
• Be responsible for the security, correct usage, and care of all machinery, tools, and equipment.
• Suggest improvements and changes in their area of work.
• Complete all written documentation as required.

Key skills/experience/education:

• Relevant industry qualifications; 201(CS30), 202(CS31), 301(CS32) as a minimum.
• CSCS/CPCS/NPORS.
• PTS card an advantage but not essential.
• Full UK driving license is essential, preferably with trailer towing capability up to 3,500kg.
• Experience in mechanised felling and processing techniques.
• Experience operating multiple items of plant and equipment in various sectors.
• Knowledge of tree inspection, including common tree diseases and faults.
• Comfortable working outdoors and capable of a physically demanding job.
• Understanding of risk assessment and implementing safe working practices.
• Good communication skills.
• Positive can-do attitude.
• Positive attitude towards Health and Safety, industry guidance, and technical standards.
• Strong team-working ethic.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from any suitably qualified persons.

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