Tree Inspector

Help us manage and protect Dorset’s trees

We are looking for enthusiastic and experienced Tree Inspectors to join Dorset Council’s Arboricultural Team.

This is an opportunity to play an important role in the inspection and management of trees across Dorset. You will help us manage our tree stock safely and effectively, while contributing to the protection and enhancement of Dorset’s environment and the benefits that trees provide to our communities. 

What’s in it for you

You’ll join an experienced arboricultural team carrying out varied and interesting work across Dorset.

This is a predominantly outdoor role, giving you the opportunity to work independently across a wide range of locations and inspect a diverse tree population. Your professional judgement will directly contribute to the effective management of the Council’s trees and help ensure our highways and other Council-owned sites are managed safely.

You’ll also have opportunities to maintain and develop your professional knowledge through continuing professional development (CPD), training and learning from colleagues within the Arboricultural Team.

What you can expect to be doing

Your main responsibility will be carrying out tree inspections on Dorset Council-owned trees, as well as inspecting privately owned trees when required.

You will:

• Carry out systematic tree inspections across Dorset.
• Assess tree condition, defects, pests and diseases and identify appropriate management requirements.
• Produce accurate tree inspection records and reports, clearly recording your findings and recommendations.
• Use tablets and tree management/database software to record inspection information.
• Work independently to manage your inspection programme and meet quarterly inspection targets.
• Liaise with Arboricultural Officers and the Team Manager, Arboriculture and Grounds, regarding trees requiring inspection or further action.
• Attend site visits and relevant meetings when required.
• Communicate professionally with members of the public, Council colleagues, schools, councillors and other organisations.
• Work outdoors throughout the year, including alongside highways and in challenging weather conditions.

The role involves significant travel across Dorset and regular lone working.

About you

We are looking for someone with a strong arboricultural background and substantial practical experience of carrying out tree inspections.

You will need:

• A Level 4 or above qualification in Arboriculture, such as an HND or equivalent.
• A LANTRA Professional Tree Inspection certificate or equivalent, such as TRAQ or QTRA.
• Substantial experience of undertaking tree inspections.
• Good tree identification and pest and disease identification skills.
• The ability to make sound professional judgements and accurately record and report your findings.
• Good IT skills and experience using tablets and tree database software.
• Good communication and time-management skills.
• The confidence and ability to work independently and manage changing priorities.
• The ability to communicate effectively and deal professionally with challenging or conflicting situations.
• A full current manual driving licence and the ability to meet the significant travel requirements of the role.
• The ability and willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Experience using Ezytreev, Bat Awareness training, Veteran Tree training or other relevant land-based experience would be advantageous but is not essential. 

If you would like an informal discussion about the role, the Arboricultural Team, or what it is like working as a Tree Inspector for Dorset Council, please contact Andrew Beale, Team Manager – Arboriculture and Grounds on 01305 228160

We welcome applicants who would like to find out more about the role before applying.

The role involves working across Dorset, with a Council works vehicle provided for carrying out your duties. You will primarily work independently in the field while being supported by colleagues within the Arboricultural Team.

Dorset Council supports flexible working, and flexible working arrangements can be discussed where appropriate to the requirements of the role.