Machine Operator - Railroad Vehicle (Ireland), Durban

A leading arboriculture and vegetation management company in Ireland is seeking experienced Machine Operators – RRV (Railroad Vehicle) specialists from South Africa to join their team. You will operate 16 ton tracked/rail mounted excavators with grapple saws, rail mounted chippers, and diggers with mulching heads/flails. This is a contract role with daytime and night‑time shifts (seasonal – winter), reporting to the Tree Surgery Director. The client covers all associated costs – including work permit, visa, and travel – for the successful candidate.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• CSCS Machine Operation(360 excavator, teleporter) – or equivalent recognised certification
• RRVO (Railroad Vehicle Operator)qualification
• Full clean driving licence
• HGV licence C, CE or higher(distinct advantage)
• Proven experience operating heavy plant in arboriculture, forestry, or similar environment
• Ability to transport plant using truck/HGV
• Good level of English (written and oral)
• Willingness to work daytime and night‑time shifts (seasonal – winter) across regional Ireland
• Valid passport and ability to pass work permit & travel visa checks

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Mobilise & demobilise plant and machinery to and from site
• Carry out tree felling operations using machinery
• Operate RRV (railroad vehicle mounted machinery)
• Operate digger with attachments (grapple saw, mulching head, flail)
• Transport timber & woodchip to designated locations
• Carry out groundwork activities including timber processing
• Set up machinery for operation; maintain machinery & equipment
• Start machinery and make adjustments to improve performance
• Troubleshoot issues and perform maintenance
• Perform quality control; follow reporting and recordkeeping procedures; report problems to supervisor
• Comply with all safety and health regulations
• Clean machinery and maintain cleanliness in work area

 RELATED MACHINERY

• 16 ton tracked/rail mounted excavator with grapple saw
• 16 inch tracked/rail mounted chipper (fed by excavator)
• 16 ton standard tracked excavator with grapple saw
• 3 ton excavator with rotating grapple

KPIs:

• Safe and efficient operation of RRV and all related machinery
• Timely mobilisation/demobilisation and transport of plant
• Consistent quality of tree felling, timber processing, and chip transport
• Adherence to all safety rules and company safety policies
• Punctuality, reliability, and clear communication with crew leader and team

SALARY & BENEFITS

• Industry related in British Pound
• All PPE provided
• Company Pension Scheme (contribution up to 3% of annual salary – once probation passed)
• Driver training & CPD
• 20 days holidays plus bank holidays
• Company Sick Pay (SSP), Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
• Accommodation provided on site at nominal rates