Junior Arborist/Trainee Climber

Job Summary

At Ferns Forestry, we’re shaping safe, sustainable environments for communities to thrive.

With over 25 years of expertise, we deliver exceptional arboriculture, landscaping, and infrastructure services across the South East. Join our growing team and take your career to new heights.

If you’ve got 1–2 years’ experience or have completed college-level arboriculture and want to become a confident climber, we’ll train you, support you, and give you a clear pathway into a full Climber role.

What you’ll be doing

Working in professional 2–3 person teams, you’ll support our Arborists on a variety of tree work across highways, public realm and green spaces.

You will:

• Assist with aerial work, climbing, pruning and basic dismantles
• Carry out ground operations including chainsaw work, chipping and branch handling
• Work with modern machinery and equipment (MEWPs, chippers, rigging equipment)
• Follow industry safety standards and best practice
• Learn from experienced Climbing Arborists and Supervisors
• Progress into more complex climbing as your skills develop

Who We’re Looking For

You don’t need to be a fully qualified climber – just someone with core skills and the right attitude.

Essential Skills & Qualifications

• 1–2 years’ experience in arboriculture OR college qualification/Level 2 Arb
• Confident with basic tree climbing & pruning
• NPTC/LANTRA units:
• CS30/31 (Chainsaw Maintenance & Cross-Cutting)
• CS38 (Tree Climbing & Aerial Rescue)
• A positive, safety-conscious attitude
• Willingness to learn from senior climbers
• Full UK driving licence

Desirable

• CS39 – Chainsaw from Rope & Harness
• CS40 / CS41
• IPAF MEWP
• UA Utility qualifications
• NRSWA Signing, Lighting & Guarding

Hours

47.5 hours per week

Monday to Friday

Participation in 24-hour emergency standby may be required.

What we offer

• Competitive pay, company vehicle, and benefits.
• Ongoing training and development (including fencing and arboriculture skills).
• A supportive team culture within a growing business.
• Varied, rewarding projects with the chance to make a visible impact.
• Full PPE, climbing kit, and uniform provided.

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Free parking
• On-site parking
• Referral programme