Tree Officer

A rare opportunity has arisen for a Tree Officer within the Development Management Planning Team. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Officer to play a key role in the delivery of high quality development and shape attractive and varied townscapes and environments. You may be looking towards the next stage in your career or perhaps you have a good level of knowledge and understanding and a desire to further an Arboricultural career. Our Development Management team provide a high performing, dynamic and fast paced service that has been identified nationally as exceeding targets, we do this as a team with a customer focus.

With experience in tree work or related experience preferably in a local authority you will have excellent knowledge, communication and negotiation skills; you will work well in a team environment and involved in both challenging and interesting projects across a very board range of rural and urban tree related issues.  You will be tenacious, conscientious, enthusiastic, adaptable and welcome a challenge. This is an excellent opportunity to broaden your experience and knowledge in a positive planning team, who are focused, dedicated, supportive and friendly. 

The main role of the Tree Officer is to lead on all tree related work and applications under TPO legislation, assess trees for their suitability for TPOs and to support a large team of Planners to ensure all development strengthens the aim to create a high quality environment for all. The Tree Officer is essential to the delivery of the wider planning service and you will play a lead role in delivering and improving the tree service offered.

These are exciting times, as proposals for a number of key sites are coming forward and we are nearing adoption of the new Local Plan.  The Council has a positive approach to change and development, is highly supportive and operates flexible working. Tunbridge Wells is a great place to live, do business and visit. The Council has a clear and powerful vision for the future set out in our Strategic Plan which sets out the priorities for Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.

• Additional benefits include hybrid working, 26 days annual leave (increasing to 29 after 5 years continuous Local Government service), plus additional days in December when the Council closes between Christmas and New Year. 
• Membership of the Local Government (CARE – Career Average (Revalued Earnings) Pension Scheme.
• Options of car or cycle loans through salary sacrifice I
• Invaluable training opportunities for CPD and personal development and payment of professional fees. 

To find out more take a look at the Job Description and Person Specification below.  For an informal discussion about this post, you can contact Lucinda Roach, Development Manager on 01892 554455 or lucinda.roach@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or Carlos Hone, Head of Planning on 01892 554458 or carlos.hone@tunbridgewells.gov.uk

To stay up to date with our latest vacancies and what it’s like to work here you can follow us on twitter @TWBC_Jobs and LinkedIn @TWellsCouncil

Advert closing date: 11 May 2025 

Interview date: TBC