Tree Climber – Rail (TfL Network)

We are looking for experienced Tree Climbers to join our team working on vegetation management projects across the Transport for London (TfL) network. This is a hands-on role carrying out tree works in a rail environment, requiring safe climbing and rigging techniques as well as strict adherence to railway safety standards.

This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled arborist with rail experience to be part of a dedicated team keeping the railway safe and operational.

Key Responsibilities

Carry out climbing operations, aerial cutting, rigging, and lowering techniques to safely dismantle or prune trees in line with industry and rail standards.

Undertake vegetation clearance, tree felling, and maintenance works along the railway corridor.

Work safely within the TfL rail environment, complying with all Rule Book, Sentinel, and site access requirements.

Ensure all works are completed to a high standard, with an emphasis on safety, efficiency, and environmental awareness.

Operate and maintain climbing and chainsaw equipment, ensuring tools are checked, serviced, and compliant with relevant legislation and rail requirements.

Complete daily risk assessments, site inspections, and safety briefings.

Support colleagues on the ground, including rope management, lowering, and processing of cut timber and arisings.

Maintain clear communication with the site supervisor, client representatives, and colleagues to ensure smooth delivery of works.

Work flexibly during night shifts, weekends, and rail possession/blockade windows as required.

Required Experience & Qualifications

Proven experience as a Tree Climber/Arborist, ideally within the rail industry.

NPTC/LANTRA qualifications, including:

Chainsaw maintenance & cross cutting (CS30/201)

Felling small trees (CS31/202)

Aerial tree rescue (CS38/206 & 306)

Aerial cutting with a chainsaw using free-fall techniques (CS39/308)

PTS (Personal Track Safety) / Sentinel card – essential.

Additional qualifications desirable:

MEWP (IPAF)

Wood chipper

Brushcutter/strimmer

First Aid +F (Forestry)

Strong understanding of Health & Safety and environmental legislation.

Physically fit, with the ability to work at height and in all weather conditions.

Full UK Driving Licence (no more than 6 penalty points).

Benefits

21 days holiday

Pension scheme and death-in-service benefit

Free car parking

Regular training and refresher courses to maintain competencies and safety standards

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from under-represented members of the community. 

Strictly no agencies please