Senior Arboricultural Officer

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Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Statement

Surrey is included in the Local Government Reorganisation plans, with new unitary councils expected to be established by April 2027.

Woking Borough Council remains committed to delivering high-quality services to residents throughout this period of change.

While we understand that applicants may feel uncertain about joining us during this transition, it is anticipated that most employees will transfer to the new unitary councils. This reorganisation may also present new career development opportunities across the region.

UK Visa Sponsorship

We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role.
Applicants must already have the legal right to work in the UK.

AI Use in Applications

We understand that some applicants may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist with preparing their applications.

All submitted information—whether supported by AI or not—must accurately reflect the applicant’s own skills, experience, and qualifications.

Recruitment decisions will be based on how well applicants demonstrate these attributes during the interview and selection process.

Woking Borough Council is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities and provide reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process.

Please apply online via the link provided.

Reporting to the Development Management Operations Manager the successful applicant will assist the Council in meeting its corporate objectives and statutory obligations for work affecting trees in relation to delivery of the Councils planning function.

As case officer for applications relating to work on protected trees, take responsibility for the processing of tree applications (which are usually dealt with under delegated authority) and acting as the point of contact for the public.

Responding to the Development Management (DM) team’s consultations, giving expert opinion on tree matters on planning applications, including large-scale projects, and at appeal. Providing advice to the DM team regarding landscaping proposals submitted as part of planning applications.

The investigation of alleged breaches of tree protection legislation, and, in liaison with the Council’s Legal Service, to provide expert witness evidence in cases leading to prosecution.

Responsibility for overseeing the making of new Tree Preservation Orders, including the review of old area orders, and the preparation of reports in response to objections. Dealing with the administration of formal complaints under the High Hedges legislation.

About the team: 

The post is one of two senior Arboricultural officer positions that sit within the Development Management Team. The postholder will report to theDevelopment Management Operations Manager. The Development Management team are part of the Councils Planning service and are within the Place and Digital directorate. Woking Planning Department…

About you: 

You will have a Recognised arboricultural qualification, such as the Arboricultural Association’s Technician’s Certificate in Arboriculture and will have eligibility for membership of the Arboricultural Association. 

You will have a thorough knowledge of tree condition assessment, fault diagnosis and safety and an understanding of current planning legislation as it relates to trees.  You will also have excellent communication skills, including the ability to write clear and concise reports, as well as good organisational skills, including the ability to prioritise work and meet deadlines. In addition, you will be able to work as part of a team to deliver corporate objectives.

Shortlisting criteria: 

• Recognised arboricultural qualification, such as the Arboricultural Association’s Technician’s Certificate in Arboriculture and will have eligibility for membership of the Arboricultural Association. 

• At least three years’ experience, post qualification, including a minimum of two years’ experience in a professional capacity 

• thorough knowledge of tree condition assessment, fault diagnosis and safety 

• understanding of current planning legislation as it relates to trees.  

• An understanding of tree issues in relation to construction

• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to write clear and concise reports 

• General competence in use of IT 

• Good organisational skills, including the ability to prioritise work and meet deadlines 

Employee Benefits: 

• Annual leave entitlement of 23 days rising to 30 days (maximum) in line with continuous service 

• Flexi time scheme with the opportunity to take up to 2 days flexi leave per month   

• Local Government Pension Scheme 

• Employee Assistance Programme 

• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave 

• Discounted leisure gym membership and free swimming 

• Season ticket loans 

• Cycle to work scheme  

• Free eye tests 

• Retail discount scheme 

What we will need from you: 

• Documentary evidence that you are eligible to work in the UK 

• References from your two most recent employers covering at least 3 years 

• Completion of a medical questionnaire and declaration  

• A full driver’s license
• Evidence of relevant professional qualification(s)

Closing date: 

• 11 May 2026 - 23:55pm

Interview date(s) 

• W/c 18 May 2026

Who to contact:  

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Dan Freeland, Development Management Operations Manager (Daniel.Freeland@woking.gov.uk).  

We are happy to consider reasonable adjustments as part of the recruitment process.