Conservation Worker (Arboriculture)

We have a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Conservation Worker (Arboriculture) to work on a long term assignment with our Local Authority client based in Loughton, Essex.

Purpose of Post

To contribute to the protection and conservation of Epping Forest as a unique open
space for the recreation and enjoyment of the public through the effective and efficient implementation of the Forest Management Plan – in particular those aspects relating to arboriculture, veteran trees and woodland management.

Principal Duties & Responsibilities

1) Practical Tree & Habitat Management 75%
a) To carry out practical arboricultural work using rope & harness; including crown reduction, tree pruning, sectional felling/dismantling and pollarding.
b) To carry out general tree and woodland management, including tree felling, coppicing and scrub clearance.
c) To operate arboricultural and forestry equipment, such as chainsaws, wood chippers, stump grinders.
d) To transport timber and materials with tractor and trailer or forwarder.
e) To carry out tree planting, weeding and pruning.
f) To carry out other habitat management or restoration work as required, e.g. grass cutting or pond restoration.
g) To carry out chemical control of vegetation.

2) Use and Maintenance of Equipment and Machinery 5%
a) To maintain and repair machinery, equipment and tools relevant to the post. This may range from basic day to day tool maintenance to more significant and involved machinery repairs.
b) To keep all tools and equipment issued to you in a safe and secure manner and to report faults or damage in a timely fashion.
c) To assist the Senior Conservation Officer and Head of Operations in the assessment and choice of equipment, machinery and vehicles.

3) Health and Safety 5%
a) To undertake the post’s duties with regard to your own health and safety and that of other City of London employees and members of the public.
b) To ensure all work is carried out according to Risk Assessments, Safe Systems of Work, industry good practice (e.g. AFAG leaflets) and other guidance as issued.
c) To support the Senior Conservation Officer and Head of Operations in the preparation of Risk Assessments and Safe Systems of Work.
d) To report defects or damage on the Forest to the relevant supervisor or manager.

4) Public Liaison 5%
a) To work alongside the local community (such as volunteer groups and schools), as well as other Epping Forest staff, as required to meet the Post’s objectives.
b) To inform the public about the management of the Forest, both informally whilst carrying out management work and at events and guided walks.

5) Additional Technical Work 5%
a) To interpret maps, plans and management prescriptions related to their duties, as issued by the Senior Conservation Officer and Head of Operations.
b) To be familiar with the main Forest habitat types and priority species as relevant to the post.
c) To maintain an awareness of the obligations and limitations of working in a Special Area of Conservation, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, Scheduled Ancient Monuments or any such future designations.
d) Tree and woodland survey work (including basic tree hazard assessments)

6) General 5%
a) To maintain a full driving licence, chainsaw operation certificates of competence to NPTC CS30/31, arboricultural certificates of competence to NPTC CS38/39, First Aid at Work certificate and other relevant certificates of competence.
b) To undertake training informal on the job as required to improve effectiveness in carrying out your duties.
c) To assume extra duties in the absence of the Team Leader (such as production of Risk Assessments and recording of work carried out) as directed by the Head of Operations.
d) To carry out the role in accordance with Policies and guidance as set out in the Employee Handbook.
e) To undertake any other duties appropriate to the post as required by the Senior Conservation Officer.

This is a great opportunity for the right candidate who possess the skills and experience mentioned above. If you would like to be represented for the role, kindly forward your most recent up dated CV with any employment gaps explained.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Many thanks.