Tree Officer
Tree Officer
£27,991 - £34,474 per annum (depending on qualifications and experience)
37 hours per week
About the Role
Due to the retirement of the postholder an exciting opportunity has arisen for a Tree Officer to join our successful and friendly Planning team in enhancing our Environment and delivering high quality development. People living and working in Runnymede place a high value on the contribution trees make to an attractive Borough.
You will be responsible leading on tree applications under the Conservation and TPO legislation and making recommendations for new orders where necessary. You will provide professional advice to planning officers, Councillors, agents and members of the public in respect of planning applications, enforcement matters and pre-application schemes by considering the impact of a development on the existing trees and recommending new planting where necessary. The successful candidate will also play a key role in introducing new initiatives to enhance our service. Although the role is based in the Planning team, you will also provide an arboricultural service to the Council’s Housing team by advising on householder requests for tree works.
About you
The role requires you to hold an arboricultural qualification at level 4 or above. It is desirable if you have achieved the ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification or LANTRA Professional Tree Inspection accreditation. Your qualifications will be backed up by your sound knowledge of current legislation, policy, good practice and procedures in relation to the protection and management of trees. Experience within a similar role is desirable but not essential.
You will have a passion for the environment, a ‘can do’ attitude, be organised and be able to work independently and as part of a team. You will have an understanding of customer care and have the ability to negotiate a positive outcome. You will have good self-presentation and have a calm manner and professional attitude. Experience of reading planning drawings and/or technical documents will be an advantage but training can be given.
You must have a full driving license and a vehicle available for work purposes, and be fully aware of health and safety requirements. In return we offer a supportive working environment, generous annual leave, and membership to the Local Government Pension Scheme. The Offices are based in Addlestone town centre which has recently been regenerated and has a new cinema, Waitrose and gym all within walking distance.
Benefits
- Hybrid working 3 days in the office, 2 days working from home
- Annual 3% salary increase in July
- Flexible working 7am-7pm (Core hours are 10-11.30am & 2.30pm-4pm) and Flexi-leave
- 28 Days annual leave, plus 8 days bank holidays and 1 extra day at Christmas (rising to 31 Days annual leave after 2 years)
- Excellent Pension Scheme
- Free Parking
- Training and development opportunities
- Payment of one professional membership per annum
- Cycle to work + further related discounts
- Season ticket loan
- Health and Dental insurance plan after 3 years’ service
- Mileage allowance
About Runnymede
Runnymede is an ambitious, passionate, and progressive council with a forward- thinking attitude and award-winning departments. As a Borough Council, we are committed to our four core values and goals which we demonstrate through our ongoing policies and projects. We are always keen to improve our services and welcome innovative and proactive individuals who are open minded and have a positive approach in supporting our vision.
How to apply
For more information on the Tree Officer role and to apply please visit the council website.
We are passionate about building an inclusive and diverse workforce and we welcome applications from candidates with a variety of backgrounds, skills and abilities. If it is difficult for you to apply online, please contact Human Resources who will be able to assist you.
For an informal chat about this role please contact Tom Fry, Assistant Development Manager (Enforcement and Specialists) on 01932 425249 or tom.fry@runnymede.gov.uk.
Closing Date: Monday 29th May 2023 at 11:55pm
Interview Date: TBD