raafbeard

Posted for work and after a while I got offered a good opportunity. Possibly more by coincidence but an opportunity none the less. From an Employer point of view I would definately look here, As Peter says the forum documents work/ development and also offers some personal insight. Additionally if I hadn't just moved away I too would have bitten Monkeyd's hand off for an interview...

MasterBlasters list is a good document of practical and aspirational qualities which a good/excellent groundsman would have or try to achieve. Possibly more helpful would be a short list of points on how to avoid being a crap groundsman. I'll start of with a couple: Remember what kit you use on a daily basis, and what is required for more specialised tasks/operations. Help as much as you can in the loading of the truck at the beginning of the day, the unloading on site, the loading after work (be careful to ensure you have everything with you that you brought and be concious of where pieces of kit are during the job), make sure you help unload at the end of the day and remember what goes where and how it is stored. Remember you don't clock off until all the kit is away and you have been told to go. Home time isn't always on the bell. Watch the Climber and as said learn to pre-empt their next move and assist as appropriate. HOWEVER watching the Climber does not mean endlessly staring at them for the duration of the climb. Be aware when they are working and where they intend to work next. Whilst the Climber is working try to clear as much brash as possible without endangering yourself. Ultimately the tidiness of the work area is your responsibility and you must therefore control brash levels and ensure it is chipped and processed effectively whilst maintaining a safe work site. Communicate clearly with the Climber when you will be entering the drop zone or establish a period where they will cease work for you to clear. I think these are the most important areas for your focus initially. 2 quick ones: - don't take a handful when you can manage an armful, or two - never go anywhere empty handed unless absolutely necessary ie. time is a significant factor. Also finally remember time is money, it is in your interest as well that the job is done in an efficient manner and doesn't drag on longer than needed. Hope that helps - enthusiasm and interest also are very positive. Currently thinking I am a right git to newbs, whilst I am still new myself. However in my short time I have seen some right no-hopers and by simply following the above they would have shown so much more potential.

Posting on behalf of a friend: "Looking for work after recent break. I am qualified with NPTC's 30,31,38,39 and hold a full clean pre 97 driving license. I also own PPE and Climbing Kit. I gained my tickets in 2006 and have worked on local authority contracts as well as insurance and private client work, as part of a 2-3 man team. I have good experience of Timberwolf and Stihl products and understand their correct use and service. In summary I am a hardworking and competent Groundworker who is looking to expand and build their climbing experience. Ready to start work immediately I am looking for a vacancy anywhere in the Southern region. Any opportunities gratefully considered. Please call Jon on 07548533061 or 07503753735"

Would love to come along but can't be definate....If I am able i will

I lol'd when a co-worker cheerily piped up that the Boss would be "happy as a p**f with 2 a-holes" because we had just done an extra £500 ...

Sounds like I am not the only one to have had this put to me by clients recently...."Don't worry its ok you can keep your crappy leylandii logs if you want them" Don't know about pricing the job in hand sorry...would recommend "High" though

Good show - can't wait to spend my first night in a canopy..

Actually buy stuff on line for convenience if I know exactly what I want....otherwise I just have a browse for information before going to buy - generally like to touch things before I commit and pay for them

I like the concept...but think it would be a nightmare to design and build you obviously have some ideas on this though. Also I would question if it is that practical compared to a standard chipper??

Just finished a hedging job 14 odd days here and there ...also very glad to get it out the way.. so know exactly how you are feeling...

I hate that game....

Football in chainsaw boots is always a laugh though ....randomly punting it about like the guy in your photo....

The steam powered replacement "88" had about as much grunt as a whoopie cushion!!! "But it was CHEEEEEPP!!" Cried the Boss in his best "pity my poverty" voice!!

Can you put me in please..

Hey Mate, I'm good thanks - enjoying this fine autumn weather and really enjoying life and work down here ... Hope everything is still going good for you ..and look forward to seeing you about

Nice Tree ...there's another tall (v Tall ) tulip next to the church in Preston Lane, Faversham...worth a look if you are close by

I will contribute..nice thought Lee:icon14:

It would be a great shame to lose such a stunning syc.

The legal descrip. seems a little bias on over playing the lack of responsibility for the operator. Making excuses ..."the second biggest saw" etc... what saw what power? Think this says more about recording training given to employees for your protection...just write it down and get them to sign.

Was thinking yesterday of how guilty i am in coming too close to my rope. This for me is a real eye opener... I really hope Chris recovers quickly and well... HSE's behaviour is shocking!! But i have nothing but respect for the Professional rescue services in these situations where it becomes obvious they really know what they are doing...always donate for this reason

Some oustanding work there!! Congrats Tommy!!

Would love to have been able to apply for this when I was living in north London, don't think I really would have had enough experience though

Hi Mate, Used to work in those parts, for bigger companies you could try the Tree Company in Hounslow or Tree Care in Acton. CIP and KBA usually need people too. Also there are quite a few smaller firms who it may be worth ringing around. Sorry i don't know of any firms specifically based in Ealing. Definately give the Tree Company a call though. Good Luck

Can't believe it is a year all ready!! Congratulations and many thanks to those who put in so much hard work to keep the forum going.... Roll on the next year...

Love those Mercs!! Tastefully done Ed