Neway International are seeking three Arborists – Second Climbers to join our client based with Southwark Council.
Location: Sandgate Industrial Estate, Southwark, SE15 1LE
Hours: 36 hours per week
Start Date: 9 March
Duration: 12 weeks, extended after review
About the Client
Southwark Council's Parks & Natural Environment service manages and maintains the borough's green spaces, ensuring safe, high‑quality environments for residents and visitors. The Tree Service team delivers arboricultural operations across the borough, supporting public safety, environmental sustainability, and the long‑term health of Southwark's tree stock.
The Role
The Arborist – Second Climber will work as part of a professional arboricultural team, supporting the Lead Climber and undertaking a wide range of tree care operations. The role includes climbing, aerial rescue, pruning, felling, stump work, equipment operation, and on‑site supervision when required. Safety, technical competence, and high‑quality workmanship are essential.
Key Responsibilities
Undertake a full range of arboricultural duties including pruning, crown work, felling, stump grinding, and aerial rescue
Operate and carry out minor maintenance on specialist equipment including chainsaws, chippers, stump grinders and MEWP‑related tools
Drive non‑HGV vehicles with trailers and complete daily vehicle checks
Carry out associated labouring tasks such as fencing, paving, and minor repairs
Apply herbicides, insecticides and fungicides safely (PA1/PA6 required)
Complete risk assessments and method statements when the Lead Climber is not present
Identify tree species, defects and hazards, and take appropriate action or escalate
Maintain excellent health and safety standards and report hazards promptly
Liaise professionally with members of the public and represent the Council positively
Support productivity targets and contribute to service improvements
Comply with all relevant legislation, codes of practice and Council policies
Candidate Requirements
Essential arboricultural qualifications:
CS30, CS31, CS38, CS39
LANTRA Brushwood Chipper (NPTC A06)
PA1 & PA6
LANTRA Stump Grinder (NPTC A07)
City & Guilds NPTC Level 3 Award in Safe Use of a Chainsaw from a MEWP
First Aid at Work certificate
Proven experience working as an Arborist
Strong knowledge of arboricultural operations to BS3998:2010
Ability to identify a wide range of tree and shrub species
Full clean UK driving licence (C1 E entitlement required)
Ability to work to schedules, use initiative and operate with minimal supervision
Good communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to respond appropriately in emergency rescue situations
Willingness to participate in a 7‑day emergency call‑out rota