The salary range for this position is £41,585–£45,135 per annum based on a full‑time, 36‑hour working week.
We have an exciting job opportunity within the Countryside Team to work as an Arboriculturist delivering tree risk across our countryside portfolio. The post is based at Merrow Depot, Guildford, but involves travel for site visits, tree inspections, surveys and meetings around Surrey's countryside.
Our Offer to You
* 26 days’ holiday, rising to 28 days after 2 years’ service and 31 days after 5 years’ service (prorated for part‑time staff)
* Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
* A generous local government pension scheme
* Up to 5 days of carer’s leave and 2 paid volunteering days per year
* Paternity, adoption and dependents leave
* An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
* Learning and development hub with access to a wealth of resources
* Wellbeing and lifestyle discounts including gym, travel and shopping
* A chance to make a real difference to the lives of our residents
About the Role
Reporting to the Land Services Manager, you will manage tree risk across the Countryside estate at a reserve level, working closely with the operational team and other arboriculturists who deliver the Council’s Tree Risk Management Policy on service‑based sites and highways.
You will lead the multi‑year Ash Dieback programme, manage procurement and contractor relationships, and balance business‑as‑usual duties with competing priorities. Your ability to prioritise, coordinate work with other officers and provide accurate tree‑risk reports will be key.
You will collaborate with the Woodland Management Team to support the Council’s Land Management Policies and biodiversity objectives on sensitive sites. Your work will support woodland management plans and grant‑funding opportunities at a landscape scale, delivering value for money for Surrey.
With safety, public access and biodiversity at the forefront, you will meet tight deadlines and offer training and mentoring to ranger teams for lower‑level inspections.
Qualifications
* Level 4 Arboricultural qualification (or related field) and a valid, up‑to‑date LANTRA 3‑Day Professional Tree Inspection Certificate
* Proven experience managing commercial arboricultural or horticultural contractors, maintaining accurate tree‑risk reporting, prioritising recommended works and working across multidisciplinary teams
* Demonstrable experience managing tree risk at a reserve level, with a focus on biodiversity, and a proven record in site investigations, tree inspection reports, works programming, auditing, reporting and clear communication
* Experience in managing and mentoring people, and working with residents and key stakeholders
Additional Requirements
An enhanced DBS 'Disclosure and Barring Service' check will be required for this role. You must hold a valid UK driving licence and be able to travel across Surrey and beyond.
Legal Information
We are a disability‑confident employer and will provide reasonable adjustments for successful applicants who have a disability or long‑term health condition to enable them to fulfil the requirements of the job.
Future Structure
Surrey County Council is undergoing Local Government Reorganisation, moving from a two‑tier system to two new unitary councils in April 2027. If you are employed by Surrey on 1 April 2027, your role will transfer with current terms and conditions to one of the new organisations.
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