Senior Arborist

Council Jobs; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 78,000 - 91,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

End ofTrip facilities

Employee Assistance Program

Wellbeing programs

Discounted gym membership

Reflexology sessions

Meditation and Yoga classes

Professional development

Job summary

Hobsons Bay City Council is seeking a Senior Arborist to lead and enhance the urban forest across parks and streets. This hands-on, customer-focused role coordinates contractors, handles enquiries and delivers high-quality tree services to support a healthy, safe canopy.

The successful candidate will hold a Diploma of Arboriculture (AQF Level 5) or equivalent, bring tree risk assessment expertise, and interpret legislation and standards.

Qualifications

• Diploma of Arboriculture (AQF Level 5) or equivalent experience in municipal arboriculture.
• Tree risk assessment expertise, ideally with ISA TRAQ, QTRA and/or VALID methodologies.
• Strong knowledge of tree biology, defects, pests, diseases and maintenance practices.
• Ability to interpret legislation, policies, standards and technical requirements.

Responsibilities

• Manage tree-related enquiries and customer requests through Council's systems.
• Conduct tree inspections, assessments and risk management activities.
• Provide specialist arboricultural advice to internal and external stakeholders.
• Coordinate and oversee tree maintenance works and contractor activities.
• Undertake minor operational tree works, including pruning, root management and stump grinding.

Skills

Tree risk assessment

Tree biology knowledge

Legislation interpretation

Contractor coordination

Education

Diploma of Arboriculture (AQF Level 5)

Tools

ISA TRAQ / QTRA / VALID

Job description

• Position type:Permanent, Full time


• Salary: Band 5 $78,154.75 - $90,691.48+ RDO +superannuation

We're here. We're community. We're HobsonsBay.
At Hobsons Bay City Council, we’re committed tocreating a workplace that reflects our community and values. You’llbe part of a forward-thinking organisation that supportsinnovation, collaboration, and professional growth, and whichaspires to be the exemplar of Local Government.

The opportunity
The Senior Arborist plays akey role in managing and enhancing Hobsons Bay City Council's urbanforest by providing expert arboricultural advice, assessing andmaintaining trees, managing customer enquiries, and coordinatingsafe, high-quality tree services across parks and streets. This isa hands-on, customer-focused position that works closely withcontractors, residents and internal teams to support a healthy,safe and sustainable tree canopy.

What you’ll do

• Manage tree-related enquiries and customer requests throughCouncil's systems.


• Conduct tree inspections, assessments and risk managementactivities.


• Provide specialist arboricultural advice to internal andexternal stakeholders.


• Coordinate and oversee tree maintenance works andcontractor activities.


• Undertake minor operational tree works, including pruning,root management and stump grinding.

What you need to succeed

• Diploma of Arboriculture (AQF Level 5) or equivalentexperience in municipal arboriculture.


• Tree risk assessment expertise, ideally with ISA TRAQ, QTRAand/or VALID methodologies.


• Strong knowledge of tree biology, defects, pests, diseasesand maintenance practices.


• Ability to interpret legislation, policies, standards andtechnical requirements.

Applications will be accepted until 11:30pm on 9thNovember 2026.

To ensure fairness and consistency for all applicants, we areunable to accept late submissions or submissions made via email. Weappreciate your understanding and encourage timely applications viaCouncil's online portal.

Pre-Employment Requirements

Progressed candidates will be required to complete a NationalPolice Record Check, a Pre-Employment Medical Check, a Working WithChildren Check (WWCC) and a Qualification Check. Candidates must also holda valid Victorian Driver's License.

Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident orhold a valid work permit or visa with full unrestricted workingrights. Work eligibility will be checked as part of the recruitmentprocess.

What we can offer

• Our location in the centre of Altona is close to publictransport, cafes and parks. Enjoy your lunch at the pier, or anafternoon walk along the lake.


• Go to the gym or ride your bike before work? Our End ofTrip Facility offers bike storage and shower facilities to getyou refreshed and ready to go!


• Exclusive staff access to our Employee Assistance Program,wellbeing programs, discounted local gym membership,Reflexology sessions, Meditation, Yoga & Circuit classes,and walking & social clubs.


• Ongoing professional development support - we'll championyour growth, because your career matters to us!


• A team that’s shaping a brighter future, working togetherto create a sustainable, thriving community for generations tocome.

We are a proud inclusive employer. We encouragepeople from all walks of life to apply for our job opportunities.Our commitment is to provide diverse, safe and inclusiveenvironments where everyone can grow and succeed.

Attachments:
- Position Description - Senior Arborist.pdf