Live Line Harvesting Machine Operator
* Job Number: 555178
* Closing at: Sep 23 2025 - 23:55 BST
Base Location: Perth (Flexible throughout Scotland)
Salary: £34,749 - £40,939 + skills shortage allowance + Full PPE + access to a company vehicle, overtime pay and a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing and family.
Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time
The role
We invest millions every year to make sure that our network is in the best condition possible to minimise the risk of power cuts and to ensure the safety of the public. 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 ensure we keep the lights on. As well as installing the latest technologies and carrying out regular maintenance, we have our in-house tree-cutting team to make sure that trees and vegetation are kept away from our overhead lines and equipment therefore the Live Line Harvesting Machine Operator is key to our success.
You will
* Carry out mechanised felling and removal of trees adjacent to Live Distribution and Transmission networks across Scotland, up to and including 132kV.
* Work as part of a team where your main responsibilities will include operation of a Tigercat Fixed Head Harvester to carry out Live Line Harvesting operations throughout Scotland.
* Spend most of your working day working within the red zone adjacent the live overhead network which will involve working outdoors in all weather conditions.
* Be responsible for site assessment, completion of risk assessments and all
* You will (depending on authorisations) be required to carry out tasks in a safe and timely manner and in accordance with our procedures.
You have
- A good knowledge and understanding of the HV and LV overhead network. As a minimum you will hold or will be working towards FMO1.2, 2.1 and 2.2 certification.
- Experience of supervising mechanised harvesting or similar works.
- Experience of commercial chainsaw work and climbing will be of benefit.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a keen eye for detail and work well within a team.
- Good leadership, organisational, diagnostic and problem-solving skills and will be able to work accurately and independently always holding a high regard for safety for both you and your surroundings.
A full driving licence is essential as there will be a requirement for travel in this role, and you should also be prepared to work away from home at times therefore flexibility is essential for this role.
About SSE
SSE has a bold ambition – to be a leading energy company in a net zero world. We're investing around £10 million a day in homegrown energy to help power a cleaner, more secure future.
, 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 energy experts 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
Enjoy discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships. Wellbeing benefits like a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service. Interest-free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle to Work scheme. As well as generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.
Work with an equal opportunity employer
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.
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