Arborist

Tree surgeon / Arborist
Location: Plymouth (PL4)
Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday–Thursday 06:30am – 16:15pm 
Pay: £15.56 – £17.47 per hour (dependent on experience & qualification level)
Assignment: 12‑week temporary contract, with the possibility of extension depending on the client’s needs and requirements closer to the time.
Start Dates: 2nd March 2026 
Driving Licence: Required

A fantastic opportunity has arisen to join Plymouth City Council’s dedicated Arboriculture Team. You’ll play a key role in maintaining, assessing and protecting the city’s tree stock, ensuring safe, healthy and sustainable green spaces for the community. This is a great role for someone with strong arboricultural knowledge who enjoys varied outdoor work, professional assessments and contributing to environmental stewardship.

Key Responsibilities
You’ll be involved in a wide range of arboricultural duties, including:

• Carrying out professional inspections and assessments of the Council’s tree stock
• Supporting the Team Leader in planning, prioritising and allocating daily work programmes
• Undertaking tree risk assessments, identifying hazards and recommending appropriate actions
• Recording findings accurately and maintaining up‑to‑date digital and written records
• Assisting with the coordination of tree maintenance, pruning, felling and emergency works
• Ensuring all arboricultural activities comply with environmental legislation and industry standards
• Responding to enquiries from internal departments, residents and external stakeholders
• Supporting the delivery of service performance targets and customer care standards
• Working collaboratively with the Arborist Team to maintain safe, healthy and sustainable tree populations
• Contributing to biodiversity, conservation and environmental improvement initiatives across the city

This is a hands‑on, varied role where no two days look the same - ideal for someone who enjoys both technical assessment and practical teamwork.

Requirements

• NCH in Arboriculture or equivalent qualification
• Full UK driving licence
• Experience in arboriculture, tree surveying or tree management
• QTRA (Qualified Tree Risk Assessment) registered user – desirable for the higher‑band role
• Strong understanding of health & safety, environmental compliance and industry best practice
• Confident working outdoors in all weather conditions
• Ability to work independently and as part of a coordinated team

Why Join the Team?

• Competitive hourly rates depending on experience
• Four‑day working week with long weekends
• Opportunity to work within a respected local authority
• A role that directly contributes to public safety, environmental health and community wellbeing
• Potential for contract extension depending on service needs
• Supportive team environment with meaningful, impactful work

If you’re ready for a rewarding role that keeps you moving and makes a real difference, we’d love to hear from you. If you’re ready for a rewarding role that keeps you moving and makes a real difference, we’d love to hear from you. Click to apply now! 

Due to the high volume of applications expected, we may be unable to respond to everyone individually. If you do not hear from us within 14 days, unfortunately you have not been shortlisted. Please continue to check for other opportunities with Pertemps.