Tree Officer

Job Description

Job Category : Housing, Benefits & Planning
Location : Reigate and Banstead Borough Council
Hours Per Week : 36.00
Start Date : Immediate Start
Start Time : 09:00
End Time : 17:30
Salary: £50.00

A Tree Officer is required within the Planning (Development Management) team to assess trees for TPO; manage caseload of tree works applications and consider development impacts upon trees associated with planning proposals.

General description of role

An opportunity has arisen for a well organised and effective individual to join our busy Development Management Service in the role of Tree Officer.
The role will involve assessing planning applications in relation to the impact upon trees, and assessing proposals to carry out works to protected trees, liaising with applicants and their agents, where required. You will also have the opportunity to get involved in other aspects of the Planning service’s tree work, including the preparation, service and confirmation of Tree Preservation Orders and the investigation of unauthorised tree works.
A minimum qualification of a National Diploma in Arboriculture or FdSc arboriculture is desired although consideration will be given to candidates that are working towards these qualifications, or can demonstrate strong working knowledge of modern arboricultural practices with at least 2 years experience, preferably within the field of development planning .
You should be able to demonstrate ability to work on your own initiative, have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and be committed to putting our customers first.

Top duties / responsibilities of role

1. Make assessments of planning applications in respect of their tree impacts
2. Suggest conditions and consider tree protection and/or landscaping details submitted
3. Assess proposals to undertake works to protected trees (TPOs or within Conservation Areas)
4. Liaise with applicants and their agents to find solutions, overcome issues or discuss concerns
5. Prepare and serve Tree Preservation Orders
6. Assist with investigation of unauthorised tree works
7. Provide advice appeal or in prosecution as required
8. Maintain up to date arboricultural knowledge
9. Provide general advice and support to elected councillors, officers of the planning service and wider Council and members of the public