Arborist

Role Overview

We are seeking an Arborist to contribute to the sustainable care and management of trees within the City's parks, streetscapes, reserves, and recreational spaces. As an integral member of the Arboricultural team, you will ensure tree health, safety, and maintenance that benefit the local community.

This full-time permanent position offers an excellent chance for those aiming to build their arboriculture career by gaining hands-on experience and achieving an industry-recognised qualification.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Carry out tree maintenance tasks following industry standards, legislation, and Australian Standards, including pruning, deadwooding, crown management, and related arboricultural activities.
• Evaluate the condition of municipal trees to detect structural issues, hazards, diseases, and health concerns.
• Operate and carry out minor repairs on arboriculture equipment such as chainsaws and woodchippers.
• Perform routine upkeep on tools including sharpening chainsaws, changing chains, and cleaning air filters.
• Accurately document and input tree data into the City's tree management system.
• Manage administrative and operational duties associated with arboricultural work.
• Adhere strictly to occupational health and safety protocols and actively identify and manage workplace hazards.
• Set up and maintain appropriate traffic and pedestrian controls when working in public environments.
• Collaborate effectively with coworkers, contractors, stakeholders, and community members.
• Participate in emergency responses, securing trees and vegetation after storms, fires, or incidents.
• Support conservation, maintenance, and enhancement of the urban forest and green spaces throughout the City.

Qualifications and Experience

• Possession of or active pursuit of a Certificate III in Arboriculture or an equivalent qualification, with a commitment to funded off-site training as part of employment.
• Desirable practical exposure to tree maintenance and tree removal; qualified candidates expected to have solid arboricultural knowledge and experience.
• Familiarity with pruning, tree maintenance, and removal practices.
• Skills to assess tree health, condition, structural integrity, and hazard identification.
• Knowledge of Energy Safe Victoria Line Clearance Regulations and line-clearing methodologies.
• Competence in safe operation and upkeep of arboricultural plant, machinery, and tools.
• Strong dedication to occupational health and safety standards and promoting safe workplace practices.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of interacting professionally and courteously with ratepayers, contractors, stakeholders, and the community.
• Ability to perform independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Must hold a current Victorian Driver’s Licence.
• Must have a current Working with Children Check as an employee.
• Candidates preferred to pass a National Police Check and pre-employment medical examination funded by the City.

Additional Information

Child Safety
Our organisation upholds a zero-tolerance policy towards child abuse. We maintain specific policies, procedures, and compulsory training programs to ensure a safe environment for children for all employees, volunteers, and contractors.

Diversity and Inclusion
We strive to build a workforce that reflects our culturally diverse community. We warmly welcome applicants from First Nations people, culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ communities, persons with disabilities, and diverse gender and age groups. Our commitment is to provide equal opportunity and a supportive workplace.

About the City
Our team plays a vital role in enriching the Geelong community across various sites such as parks, childcare centres, leisure facilities, historical sites, and more. We are committed to delivering excellent basic services while innovating for lasting community impact with sustainability as a core focus.

We support accessibility and encourage applicants who require adjustments or assistance throughout the recruitment process to contact us.