Tree and Woodland Inspector

Tree and Woodland Inspector

Are you passionate about trees, woodlands, and protecting our natural heritage? Derbyshire County Council is seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Tree and Woodland Inspector to help deliver our Trees and Woodlands Strategy and ensure the safety and sustainability of trees across the county.

About the Role

As Tree and Woodland Inspector, you will play a key role in the operational delivery of the Council’s tree risk management and woodland management responsibilities. Working under the guidance of the Arboriculturist, you will carry out risk-based inspections and contribute to the effective implementation of arboricultural best practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct routine and cyclic safety inspections of trees on highways, countryside sites, and corporate estates.
• Use GIS, geospatial and other databases to plan and monitor tree inspections and surveys.
• Identify tree species, diseases, pests, and structural defects.
• Undertake tree risk assessments and report findings clearly and accurately.
• Monitor arboricultural and woodland management contracts.
• Respond to public enquiries and complaints professionally.
• Report hazards and poor practices relating to private trees.
• Prepare reports and contribute to service performance analysis.

About You

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has experience in arboriculture or forestry, ideally in a public or highways environment.
• Is confident using GIS, Microsoft Office, digital tools and mobile apps.
• Possesses strong communication, analytical, and organisational skills.
• Can work independently and collaboratively across departments.
• Is committed to delivering excellent customer service and environmental stewardship.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential:

• Level 3 qualification in a relevant subject (e.g. Arboriculture, Forestry).
• Experience in tree inspections and risk assessment.
• A driving license and an ability to travel across Derbyshire, including remote and rural areas.

Desirable:

• Level 4 qualification (e.g. HNC, CertHE) in a relevant subject area .
• Experience of undertaking tree inspections within a local authority.
• Experience with GIS mapping systems.

We believe that hard work and commitment should be rewarded, and we offer:

• Generous Annual Leave Scheme (25 days increasing to 30 days after 5 years’ service): Ensuring a healthy work-life balance.
• Flexi Time Scheme: Up to two days flexi leave every four weeks (pro rata for part-time employees), subject to service needs.
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Wellbeing Support Framework: Includes OH physician services, fast track physiotherapy and confidential psychological support services.
• Training and Development: Opportunities for professional qualifications and ongoing training.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Promoting a healthy lifestyle.
• Our Derbyshire Rewards: a package of benefits and discounts.

Ready to apply?

If you are passionate about the environment and want to help shape the future of Derbyshire’s landscape, we would love to hear from you.

Please read the job and person profile to help you complete your application. Please detail how you meet the skills and experience we are looking for in a supporting statement, which should accompany your CV.

This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the care and management of Derbyshire’s trees and woodlands. If you’re ready to make a difference, we’d love to hear from you!

Want to chat about the role?

Drop me an email at [email protected] - I’d be happy to tell you more.

Closing Date: Sunday 13 July 2025

Provisional Interview Date: Week commencing 21 July 2025

CSJS

This role currently offers hybrid working options which will be to subject service needs, there'll be an opportunity to discuss working arrangements for this position at interview.

We welcome applications from individuals who share our values — being Collaborative, Innovative, Empowered and Accountable. These values describe who we are and what we stand for as a council. They help shape our culture, encourage consistent behaviour and guide how we work together to make a positive difference for both our employees and the residents we serve.