Assistant Policy Officer x 2

Perth & Kinross Council; Perth; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking council dedicated to enhancing community greenspaces. As an Assistant Policy Officer, you will play a vital role in implementing the Ash Dieback & Roadside Tree Strategy. Your responsibilities will include conducting tree surveys and utilizing GIS software to manage data effectively. This position offers a unique opportunity to work outdoors while contributing to environmental sustainability. With a focus on work-life balance and professional development, this role is perfect for those who are passionate about making a difference in the community.

Benefits

Generous annual leave package

Public holidays plus discretionary day

Pension scheme eligibility

Family-friendly policies

Flexible working options

Access to various benefits

Qualifications

• Experience in data recording and report generation.
• Ability to work outdoors and conduct surveys.

Responsibilities

• Conduct surveys of trees across maintained open spaces.
• Generate database of Council-owned Ash Trees using GIS.

Skills

Detail-oriented data recording

Excellent communication skills

Outdoor working comfort

Driving skills

Education

Arboricultural experience or qualifications

Qualification in environmental science

Tools

GIS software

Job description

Main Purpose of the Role

Working within Perth & Kinross Council is more than a job, it's about being part of something meaningful. It's about being part of an organisation that puts people at the heart of all we do and provides opportunities to make a real difference by enhancing every life we touch.

We Currently Have The Following Opportunity

Assistant Policy Officer x 2 posts, (Fixed Term until 31 March 2026) - PKC12617

£29,507 - £31,609

Community Greenspace Policy & Projects Team, Pullar House, Perth

These roles have been created to deliver actions from Perth & Kinross Council's new Ash Dieback & Roadside Tree Strategy. The post holder will work within the Community Greenspace Policy & Projects Team and in partnership with other Council departments including the Roads Maintenance Partnership and Housing teams.

The roles are primarily based on site, across all of Perth & Kinross. You will conduct surveys of trees across the Council's 1900 maintained open spaces, parks, and other green spaces, as well as complete vehicle-based roadside tree surveys along the extensive roads network.

Using GIS software, you will record and generate a database of all Council-owned Ash Trees, which will be used to prioritise tree management and mitigate risks associated with Ash Dieback. You will generate survey reports and recommendations for management actions.

The post holders will report directly to the Greenspace Co-ordinator (Policy) and assist the Tree & Woodlands Officer.

Skills & Experience Required

• A keen eye for details and ability to record data clearly, following existing protocols.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to produce clear and concise reports.
• Comfortable working outdoors with a reasonable level of fitness.
• Ability to stay focused and comfortable driving for extended periods.
• A driving licence is essential as travel across Perth and Kinross is required.

Additional Qualifications

Arboricultural experience or qualifications would be advantageous. A qualification in environmental science or similar is beneficial but not required.

Working at Perth & Kinross Council

Our values and behaviours influence our work and support our key priorities. In your application and interview, you will be asked to demonstrate situations that support the role criteria and reflect our values and behaviours.

What We Offer

• A generous annual leave package
• 6 days public holiday plus an additional discretionary day
• Eligibility to join our pension scheme
• Family-friendly policies and work/life balance initiatives such as Flexible Working, Maternity, Paternity & Adoption leave, time off for volunteering, and Wellbeing Framework
• Flexi time
• Access to a range of benefits

We support flexible working where possible. You are encouraged to discuss options with the recruiting manager. We also provide training and professional development opportunities.

Next Steps

We encourage you to contact Calum Bachell, Greenspace Co-Ordinator, for more information. Click "APPLY NOW" to submit your application.

External candidates must provide 2 references, including one from their current or most recent employer.

We are committed to diversity and guarantee interviews for applicants with disabilities who meet the essential criteria. For adjustments or inquiries, contact the recruitment team.

Applicants from armed forces backgrounds are welcome. All employment is subject to mandatory checks, including Disclosure Scotland and possibly an Overseas Criminal Record Check if applicable.