Tree Officer

Service Care Solutions is currently seeking a dedicated and experienced Tree Officer to join a client they are working with in Somerset.

Role Purpose:

To provide an Arboricultural service to the Council by delivering statutory duties in respect of trees and hedgerows as per obligations under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended). This role supports resilient tree preservation and management across the wider Council and provides technical/professional advice on all aspects of tree preservation, woodland management, hedgerow regulations, and high hedge complaints.

Key Responsibilities:

• Consider and process applications for work on trees covered by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and prepare reports for decision-making and appeals
• Review and process notifications for works to trees within conservation areas and prepare technical reports
• Prepare and update tree preservation orders, conduct surveys, and maintain records
• Assess notifications for hedgerow removal and compile associated technical reports
• Support planning enforcement in investigating unauthorised tree works or hedgerow removals, providing expert evidence at hearings or court cases when required
• Advise on planning applications and discharge of conditions, ensuring high environmental standards in planning
• Present technical reports and expert evidence in hearings, planning inquiries, and committee meetings
• Provide arboricultural advice to various council departments, aiding in policy development and planning
• Promote industry best practices and legislative compliance for tree care

Essential Requirements:

• In-depth knowledge of legislation relating to trees, Hedgerow Regulations, and High Hedge legislation
• Familiarity with British Standards BS5837:2012 (Trees in relation to design, demolition, and construction) and BS3998:2010 (Recommendations for tree work)
• Strong understanding of Health and Safety legislation
• Proficiency in canopy cover mapping and IT tools
• Competency in tree species identification and assessing tree health and condition
• Experience working within a multi-disciplinary team
• Knowledge of the local government planning process, including planning enforcement procedures
• Strong IT skills, including experience with spreadsheets, GIS, and databases
• Ability to provide detailed arboricultural advice in development management/planning environments
• HND, ABC Level 4 Diploma in Arboriculture, or equivalent (minimum QCF level 3)
• Lantra Professional Tree Inspection qualification
• Membership in the Arboricultural Association
• A full, valid driver's license

Desirable Skills & Attributes:

• Customer-focused approach
• Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills
• Ability to prioritise workloads and meet strict deadlines
• Effective communication and engagement skills
• Ability to research and remain up-to-date with best practices
• Previous experience in a similar role

Working Conditions:

• Site inspections requiring walking, climbing, and bending
• Awareness of hazards, including machinery, noise, and uneven surfaces
• Handling negotiations in challenging and conflicting situations regarding unauthorised works

Working Arrangements:

• Full-time role (37 hours per week) with some flexibility to meet service needs
• Six-month probation period
• Hybrid working with a mix of remote and office-based work

How to Apply:

To apply, please send your CV to (url removed) or contact Prakash at (phone number removed) for more information.