Tree Surgeon (Arborist) in Walsall

Highways, Transport and Operations are seeking skilled and motivated individuals to join as a Tree Surgeon (Arborist). This key operational post supports the management and maintenance of the borough's tree stock, from individual street trees to groups and woodlands. The role offers varied and rewarding outdoor work across the borough and requires strong practical skills, enjoyment of working at height, and proficiency with a wide range of arboricultural tools and machinery.

Responsibilities

• Carry out a full range of arboricultural operations including planting, crown raising, reductions, thinning, dismantling, felling and stump grinding to industry standards (BS3998).
• Support routine inspections, assess tree condition and make recommendations in line with national standards and local policies.
• Plan and execute both maintenance and reactive work, including emergency call‑outs during severe weather or incidents where trees pose a risk to public safety.
• Operate a variety of equipment such as chainsaws, chippers, pole saws, climbing gear, stump grinders and fleet vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes.
• Set up sites safely, comply with streetworks and highway safety requirements, maintain equipment, and record work using digital systems.
• Provide a strong customer focus, respond to enquiries and maintain good communication with residents and partners.
• Work an average of 37 hours per week, Monday to Sunday, under annualised hours arrangements and participate in the stand‑by and call‑out rota. Bank holiday working may apply under service agreements.

Qualifications

• Ability to work at height and outdoors for long periods.
• Experience in arboriculture, including practical and procedural knowledge.
• Knowledge of Health & Safety, including risk assessments and safe systems of work.
• Experience using arboricultural machinery and equipment.
• Relevant NPTC qualifications (e.g. CS30, CS31, CS38, CS39, CS40, Chipper Operations).
• Effective communication in accurate spoken English – the post is covered by the Government's Code of Practice on the English Language Fluency Duty.
• Successful candidates must undergo a Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) check, which includes identity verification, immigration status, employment history (last 3 years) and verification of criminal record (unspent convictions only).

Benefits

• Flexible working arrangements – you may work flexitime, full or part time and job sharing is usually available.
• Generous holiday entitlements.
• A first‑class pension scheme.
• Opportunities for training and personal development.

Inclusivity and Diversity

Walsall Council is committed to creating and upholding an inclusive environment where every person feels empowered, valued and respected. We actively encourage applications from individuals across diverse backgrounds and work to treat all applicants fairly and without discrimination. We promote diversity and equality, ensuring that our services and opportunities are accessible to all members of our community.

Location

Walsall, part of the Black Country, is a progressive modern community with five district centres (Bloxwich, Aldridge, Willenhall, Darlaston and Brownhills) and numerous villages. Find out more about living in Walsall.

Safer Recruitment Commitment

Walsall Council is dedicated to safer recruitment. We continually develop and improve our recruitment processes and procedures to promote a culture of safeguarding among our workforce.