Tree Officer

Location: Stretford, United Kingdom
Contract: Interim

About the role

Our client, a local authority, is looking for a Tree Officer to join their team in Stretford on an interim basis. The role involves managing the authority’s tree-related casework and supporting the protection and management of trees across the borough.

You will deal with a mix of planning-related and operational tree matters, including consultations on development proposals, tree preservation orders and the management of the council’s own tree stock. The position suits an arboricultural professional who is comfortable working independently, prioritising a varied workload and dealing with residents, developers, councillors and colleagues.

The successful candidate will bring sound arboricultural knowledge, good judgement and clear written communication. This is a practical, hands-on assignment where your experience will be put to work from the outset.

Main responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of tree-related matters, including tree preservation orders and works to trees in conservation areas
• Assess and determine applications for works to protected trees, and prepare clear, well-reasoned recommendations
• Provide arboricultural advice and consultation responses on planning applications, reviewing tree surveys, impact assessments and protection plans
• Carry out site visits and inspections to assess tree health, safety and condition
• Advise on the management of council-owned trees and respond to related enquiries and complaints
• Make and confirm tree preservation orders and maintain accurate records
• Liaise with residents, developers, contractors, ward members and internal teams
• Support enforcement action where unauthorised works to protected trees have taken place
• Meet statutory deadlines and performance targets

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in arboriculture, forestry or a related discipline
• Relevant experience as a tree officer or in a comparable arboricultural role, ideally within a local authority
• Sound knowledge of tree preservation order legislation, the planning system and relevant British Standards, including BS5837
• Experience assessing arboricultural impact assessments and tree protection proposals
• The ability to carry out tree risk and condition assessments
• Strong report writing, negotiation and communication skills
• Competence with case management and mapping systems
• The ability to work from Stretford, with travel across the borough for site visits

The offer

• An interim role based in Stretford
• Duration and rate to be confirmed with candidates

If you are an experienced tree officer looking for an interim assignment in Stretford, this role offers a live caseload and a clear scope of work. Apply below.