Arboriculture Officer – 6 Month Contract

Summary

Responsibilities

• Deliver expert arboricultural guidance to:
  • Council Members
    
  • Council Officers
    
  • Legal Services
    
  • Risk Management Teams
    
  • Members of the Public
    
• Conduct tree inspections and assess their condition.
  
• Detect tree defects, diseases, decay, and structural problems.
  
• Perform Visual Tree Assessments (VTA).
  
• Oversee and track arboricultural work programs.
  
• Develop technical reports, recommendations, and professional advice.
  
• Address tree-related complaints and inquiries.
  
• Ensure adherence to relevant legislation and British Standards.
  
• Aid in the management and protection of the Council's tree resources.
  
• Support planning consultations involving trees and protected landscapes.
  
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure health and safety compliance.
  
• Manage arboricultural records and databases.
  
• Supervise contractors and oversee their work as needed.
  
• Contribute to biodiversity, habitat management, and environmental projects.
  

Essential

• Recognized Arboriculture Qualification at National Diploma Level or higher.
  
• Full Category B Driving Licence.
  
• Experience in managing staff and budgets.
  
• Proficiency in producing technical reports and professional documentation.
  
• Strong ICT skills, including:
  • Microsoft Office
    
  • Databases
    
  • Electronic record systems
    
• Experience in conducting tree inspections and condition assessments.
  
• Familiarity with Visual Tree Assessment (VTA).
  
• Experience working with the public and stakeholders.
  

Technical Knowledge & Skills

• Ability to identify tree species and diagnose:
  • Disease
    
  • Decay
    
  • Injury
    
  • Structural Defects
    
• Comprehensive knowledge of:
  • Modern Arboricultural Practices
    
  • Tree Management
    
  • Arboricultural Health & Safety
    
  • Risk Assessment Processes
    
• Understanding of:
  • Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)
    
  • Planning Legislation
    
  • British Standards related to Trees
    
  • Wildlife and Habitat Management
    
  • Biodiversity and Nature Conservation Principles
    

Desirable

• Experience in local authority arboriculture.
  
• Experience managing arboricultural contractors.
  
• Knowledge of GIS and tree management software.
  
• Professional membership in a recognized arboricultural organization.
  

What's on Offer?

• £28.32 per hour (Umbrella)
  
• 6 Month Contract
  
• Bi-weekly Pay
  
• Opportunity to significantly contribute to the management and protection of the Borough's tree stock.
  
• A diverse role that includes inspections, technical advice, planning input, and stakeholder engagement.
  
• Work within a professional team focused on environmental and regulatory services.