Apprentice Arborist

Are you passionate about trees and the environment? Do you enjoy working outdoors and want to build a career in arboriculture? We’re looking for a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our Open Spaces team as a Trainee Arborist Apprentice and earn while you learn in a hands-on, outdoor role that makes a real difference to your community.

A comprehensive range of employment benefits, including 25 days annual leave, access to the local government pension scheme and on-site parking.

About the Apprenticeship

This is a structured training programme combining practical experience with formal learning. You’ll work alongside qualified arborists and attend college or training sessions to gain a Level 2 Arborist.

Tree pruning, felling, and planting

Use and maintenance of arboriculture equipment

Tree inspections and risk assessments

Working at height using, Mobile elevated Platform, ropes and harnesses

Supporting the delivery of safe and sustainable tree management across our parks, highways, and public spaces

This is a hands-on role with training provided, including the opportunity to gain industry-recognised qualifications such as NPTC chainsaw and climbing certifications.

You must be

• Minimum of 18 years old (this is an occupational requirement of the role)
• Enthusiastic and committed to learning.
• Have a genuine interest in trees and outdoor work and not afraid of heights
• A team player with a positive attitude.
• Good level of physical fitness.
• A full UK driving licence is helpful but not essential
• Previous experience in horticulture, landscaping, or grounds maintenance is a bonus but not essential.

What We Offer

• Paid on-the-job training and mentoring.
• Support to gain professional qualifications.
• PPE and equipment provided.
• Career progression opportunities within the Open Spaces team.
• A supportive and safety-focused working environment.
• A nationally recognised qualification.
• Pathway to a permanent role in arboriculture.
  
  

Interviews will be taking place on Friday 20th and Monday 23rd February 2026.

Apply Now

If you’re ready to grow your career in arboriculture and make a difference to your local environment, we’d love to hear from you.

Making a Difference

Whatever stage of your career, working in the public sector puts you at the heart of communities. Our workforce provides services to our resident's day in and day out, making a positive impact on people’s lives. We could not do this without the dedication, professionalism and strength of our workforce. There are so many reasons to choose to work at St Helens Council including the fantastic range of employee benefits and rewards on offer..St Helens Borough Council | Jobs | Search here for your perfect career - Home Page

Roles That Matter

Full Job Description & Person Specification Documents are included with this advert.

We reserve the right to close the advert early, with sufficient applications. Apply early to avoid disappointment.

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St Helens Council is officially recognised as one of the region’s leading fair employers, achieving accredited status under the Liverpool City Combined Authority Fair Employment Charter. The Charter recognises the ongoing commitment to fair pay, secure work, training & progression & staff well-being whilst celebrating employers who go above and beyond for their workforce providing an inclusive and supportive environment.

Equality & Diversity

We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, who share our values, our commitment to inclusion, and who will help us on our journey to transform our organisation. The Council guarantees an interview to disabled applicants who demonstrate that they meet the essential criteria for the job, as detailed on the Person Specification, and will, for qualifying disabled candidates, make reasonable adjustments within selection.

All Council employees are required to abide by the ethical standards embodied by the 7 Nolan Principles