Description
Hillingdon is one of London's greenest boroughs, home to an extensive and diverse tree population that makes a vital contribution to the local environment and the wellbeing of our residents.
We are looking for an enthusiastic and knowledgeable Arboricultural Officer to join our Green Spaces team and help manage, protect and enhance this important asset.
This is an exciting opportunity for a suitably qualified arboricultural professional to play a key role in delivering the Council's tree management responsibilities.
You will undertake inspections of the Council's tree stock, assess tree-related service requests, develop specifications for tree works, manage contractors and contribute to the delivery of our Tree Strategy.
You will also support planning, highways, housing and other services by providing expert arboricultural advice.
Working across the borough, you will be involved in a varied workload including Tree Preservation Orders, Conservation Area notifications, tree risk management, pest and disease control, insurance claims, resident enquiries and woodland management initiatives.
No two days are the same, and you will have the opportunity to make a real difference to Hillingdon's landscape and environment.
About you
We are looking for a motivated and customer-focused professional who is passionate about arboriculture and committed to delivering excellent public services.
You will have:
- A qualification in Arboriculture, Forestry or a related discipline (Level 4 or equivalent experience).
- Recent UK arboricultural experience, ideally within a local authority environment.
- A good understanding of tree legislation, including Tree Preservation Orders and Conservation Areas.
- Experience of carrying out tree inspections and recording findings accurately using electronic management systems.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain technical matters clearly to residents, councillors and colleagues.
- Experience of contractor management and quality assurance.
- A full UK driving licence and the ability to work across the borough.
PTI certification is desirable, although support may be available for the right candidate to obtain this qualification.
What we offer
In return, we offer:
- A competitive local government pension scheme.
- Generous annual leave entitlement.
- Ongoing professional development opportunities.
- Flexible working arrangements where operationally appropriate.
- Employee discounts and wellbeing benefits.
- The opportunity to help shape and protect one of London's most significant tree populations