Permanent post leading the Highway Tree Team at Somerset Council, which inspects, maintains and advises on roadside trees across the county. The role sets policy and risk-based inspection programmes, manages a £1m tree maintenance budget, and oversees contractors and a team of three. It also advises Highways and development control on new landscaped areas and coordinates emergency tree works after severe weather, with frequent rural travel and some lone working. Applicants need a Level 6 arboriculture qualification or equivalent experience, and visa sponsorship is not available.
What the job involves
- Lead strategic and operational delivery of highway tree management across Somerset
- Develop and implement policies, procedures and risk-based inspection programmes
- Ensure compliance with tree legislation, health and safety requirements and industry standards
- Manage highway tree inspections and maintenance, including pre-planned and reactive works programmes
- Manage the Highway Trees Project and a £1m tree maintenance works budget
- Manage contractors and direct, supervise, train and review the performance of a team of three
- Provide expert arboriculture advice to internal colleagues, elected members and external partners
- Liaise with Highways and development control on the adoption of new landscaped areas
- Coordinate emergency tree surgery after severe weather events
- Resolve complex issues such as insurance claims and emergency incidents
- Monitor performance and engage stakeholders
What’s required
Qualifications
- Level 6 professional qualification in arboriculture, or equivalent experience
- Professional tree inspection qualification
Experience
- Five years' post-qualification experience in tree assessment and prescribing arboricultural management
Skills & knowledge
- Knowledge of tree-related legislation and law
- Knowledge of tree pests, diseases and the planning process
Checks & eligibility
- Standard DBS check
- Right to work in the UK without sponsorship
Other
- Ability to travel independently to areas not covered by public transport
What’s offered
- 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Flexible and hybrid working where service needs allow
- Health and wellbeing support, including confidential employee assistance
- Paid volunteering opportunities
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Contact Details:
The Methodist Church in Britain Recruitment Team
