Conserving and enhancing the landscape of Oxford is a key responsibility for Oxford City Council. Trees play an intrinsic role in the landscape of Oxford, providing a myriad of social, environmental, and economic benefits for all those who live or work in the city, or come as visitors.
The historic city has a wealth of trees, many in truly outstanding locations such as the college parks and gardens. We also have valuable tree collections from around the world such as in Headington Hill Park, University Parks and the Botanic Gardens. We have over 250 Tree Preservation Orders, and there are more 18 conservation areas and 13 listed parks and gardens, which include a wide range of species in diverse habitats.
Oxford has a higher-than-average city tree canopy cover at over 20%, but there are areas of the city that would benefit from more tree cover. Development pressure, climate change, and an ageing tree population in parts of the city, requires the City Council to apply the highest standards of arboricultural principles and practice in its response to proposed works to protected trees and development management, to maintain and enhance the quality of the local environment. In support of this Oxford City Council has pioneered a progressive planning policy approach to measuring the effects of proposed development on tree canopy cover over time.
In this context we are looking for someone with drive, enthusiasm and initiative who can deliver high quality arboricultural and landscape advice efficiently and effectively. Working in liaison with officers from a range of other disciplines, the successful candidate will be providing advice on planning applications, tree policy development, and dealing with applications/notifications for work to protected trees, and requests for new TPO’s. They will also be providing other specialist advice as needed to Councillors, members of other organisations and members of the public.
Required is a professionally qualified arboriculturalist with good IT, oral and written communication skills, and a passionate urban-forestry ethos. You must have the ability to provide clear professional advice to a range of stake holders who may have complex or conflicting interests. Sound like you? Interested in working in a World Class city? If yes download the full role profile and apply.
Package
- 28 days holiday plus public holidays
- Local government pension scheme
- Subsidised leisure membership
- Flex scheme (where appropriate)
- Employer benefits scheme.
Please Note: All vacancies close at midnight on the stated closing date
For an informal discussion about the post please contact Andrew Murdoch on 01865 252228 or email amurdoch@oxford.gov.uk
Job Description
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