Arboricultural officer

You could:

• advise on tree preservation orders in planning applications
•  manage trees in parks, on housing estates and at the roadside
•  assess tree damage after storms
•  train new staff and volunteers
•  give talks on arboriculture and woodlands to schools and other groups
•  carry out tree surveys, monitor numbers and organise tree planting schemes

We've identified this as a green job

As an arboricultural officer, you can manage tree planting in cities. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, trap harmful pollutants and improve air quality. This can have a positive impact on the environment.

Find out more about green careers

• the ability to use your initiative
• knowledge of geography
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• excellent verbal communication skills
• administration skills
• to be flexible and open to change
• thinking and reasoning skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• applying directly
• a graduate training scheme

With experience, you could:

• manage a team of arboricultural officers and co-ordinate work with outside contractors
•  work as a consultant, advising organisations on tree management, conservation and safety
•  find teaching opportunities with training providers who offer courses in arboriculture