“Happy to talk flexible working”
About us
The Tree Officer contributes to the work of the Development Management Team by taking ownership of a caseload of tree related applications, including applications for works to trees under Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and works to trees in Conservation Areas, as well as contributing to pre-application enquiries and appeals, and other service related tasks as required.
Do you have experience in assessing the amenity value of trees and want to expand on this?
We are keen to support someone who is looking to progress their career in tree protection. At Mole Valley District Council, we have a number of officers throughout the Development Management team who have done just this, starting in Assistant roles and progressing to Senior roles. We very much value our staff and strive to help them achieve their professional aspirations.
Much of the District is located within the Green Belt and National Landscape designations, which introduces interesting considerations for officers and decision makers. In our built-up areas, we have historic market towns and associated heritage issues, which pose a different set of thought provoking issues for our team.
Trees, and their protection and maintenance, are integral to the quality of our rural and built-up areas and we are looking for an officer who recognises their value also.
This is a politically restricted role.
About the team
The Tree Officer position sits within the Development Management Service which aims to deliver high quality decisions in a timely fashion to ensure that the high-quality environment of Mole Valley is protected and enhanced.
Collaboration and sharing knowledge is key to our success and we encourage new team members to help us maintain our high performance while promoting new ideas, constantly looking for ways to improve our working practices.
We pride ourselves on a wider-service mentality. You will be working with colleagues from development management, planning policy, planning support and more.
About you
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You have a recognised arboricultural qualification or qualification in a closely related discipline
- You ideally have experience working in or with Local Planning Authorities
- You can demonstrate experience in dealing with a caseload of tree related applications/enquiries and report writing
- You have experience in assessing amenity value of trees and can identify constraints and issues in their condition
- You can demonstrate a sound understanding of key legislation and standards
- You are a positive and self-motivated individual who will bring a strong work ethic and enthusiasm to the team
- You are a team player, who can contribute innovative ideas and be committed to achieving high quality results
- You hold a current driving licence and access to own a vehicle to use for work
For you
Hybrid working with flexibility (if your role can offer hybrid working)
We will support and encourage you through our annual Performance and Development Review to identify training and career development opportunities. Helping you to reach your career goals and full potential.
We’re less about you driving to work and more about driving down our carbon footprint (meeting our pledge to be carbon neutral by 2030).
Our hybrid working policy offers many employees the opportunity to work from home up to three days a week should they wish (pro rata for part time working).
In support of our people and our Climate Change Strategy, we welcome hybrid working and are happy to talk flexible working too, where appropriate to the role. There are some roles where hybrid and/or flexible working may not be possible, particularly where we need to be responsive to meet the needs of our residents and businesses.
Further info
For an informal chat about the role, please contact Louise Nolan (Development Manager) on 01306 879240
Closing date for applicants: Midday 15th July 2026
Interview dates: w/c27th July 2026
How to apply
Click Apply Now complete the short application form and submit your up to date CV along with a supporting statement, to let us know how you meet the required skills and experience of the job description and person specification.
We may close this advert early once a sufficient number of applications has been received. Please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
"Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion for All"
Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)
Mole Valley District Council is preparing for a major transformation through Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) which will come into effect on 1 April 2027. The aim of LGR is to create a more streamlined, efficient and locally responsive system of government that strengthens public services. You can find out more about the LGR on the Surrey LGR Hub website
As a result of these changes, Surrey County Council and the 11 District and Borough Councils — including Mole Valley District Council — will be replaced by two new unitary councils: East Surrey and West Surrey. Mole Valley District Council will become part of new East Surrey Unitary Council and this council will be responsible for all services in the eastern part of the County.
As we move toward LGR, we want to reassure all applicants that roles linked to Mole Valley District Council will continue beyond the transition period and arrangements are in place to ensure that staff will transfer on existing terms and conditions to the new East Surrey Council.
