Arborist

OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with 50,000+ colleagues and a turnover in excess of £2bn. We deliver innovative, award-winning services within facilities management, hard services, cleaning, security and catering.

Our mission is to make people and places the best they can be for our colleagues, customers and the communities we serve. Our commitment to doing business the right way is rooted in our TRUE values - Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.

An Arborist at Alton Towers Resort plays a key role in maintaining the health, safety and magical appearance of the park’s woodland and landscaped areas, carrying out tasks such as tree inspections, pruning, planting and diagnosing pests or diseases to keep our outdoor spaces looking spectacular for millions of guests while also ensuring visitor safety through hazard reduction, storm‑damage response and the removal of unsafe limbs or trees when required, all while working among the UK’s number one theme park where teamwork, fun and guest happiness shape the everyday experience for staff and visitors alike.

The role requires flexibility to support major events such as Scarefest and Fireworks, with working hours of 7am–3pm in summer and 8am–4pm in winter, and the minimum required qualifications are CS30 (Chainsaw Maintenance & Crosscutting), CS31 (Felling Small Trees), CS38 (Tree Climbing & Aerial Rescue) and CS39 (Aerial Cutting with a Chainsaw), which ensure safe and competent use of climbing systems and arboricultural equipment, making this a perfect role for someone who loves working outdoors, embraces variety and wants to be part of a friendly, supportive resort team dedicated to keeping the grounds as thrilling and beautiful as the rides themselves.

Key Responsibilities

Tree Care & Maintenance:

• Inspect, prune, and maintain trees, including listed and heritage species, in accordance with arboricultural best practices and conservation regulations.
• Diagnose and treat tree health issues such as disease, pests, and structural weaknesses.

Ride Area Safety:

• Monitor and manage branches or foliage encroaching into ride zones, ensuring compliance with ride clearance and safety standards.
• Coordinate with ride operations teams to schedule work that minimizes disruption to guests.

Compliance & Documentation:

• Ensure all work on listed trees adheres to local authority and heritage guidelines.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, treatments, and interventions.

Equipment & Safety:

• Operate and maintain chainsaws, climbing gear, and other arboricultural equipment safely and efficiently.
• Follow all health and safety protocols, including working at height and use of PPE.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with horticulture, landscaping, and technical teams to support overall park presentation and safety.
• Liaise with external contractors and local authorities when required.

Skills & Experience

Essential:

• Recognised arboricultural qualification (e.g., Level 2/3 in Arboriculture or equivalent).
• Proven experience in tree surgery, pruning, and maintenance of mature and listed trees.
• Competence in chainsaw use and climbing (NPTC or LANTRA certifications).
• Strong understanding of tree preservation orders and heritage regulations.

Desirable:

• Experience working in theme parks or similar environments.
• Knowledge of wildlife and habitat conservation.

Personal Attributes

• Safety-conscious with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good communication skills for liaising with multiple departments.

Additional Information

• This role involves working outdoors in all weather conditions and at height.
• Weekend and holiday work may be required during peak season.

If you are interested in joining a business that encourages professional development, career progression and the chance to work with inspirational people then please click apply and register your interest! You can also sign up to our job alerts when registering which will notify you when other suitable vacancies are available.

We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.