Arborist Apprentice

Carry out green space maintenance duties, including but not limited to the following:

Process tree work using appropriate machinery Maintenance of hedges including cutting; Identify pests, diseases, disorders, and tree defects Prepare sites for planting, plant trees and provide support, protection, and aftercare Carry out a range of ground-based pruning operations Maintenance and implementation of landscaping schemes Carry out tree felling, rigging, pruning and complex tree work operations to enhance the Council’s commitment towards greater biodiversity Carry out general labour duties including but not limited to loading/ unloading equipment and vegetation, planting trees, applying fertilisers, clearing vegetation, and climbing Operate all machinery, tools, and equipment in a safe and appropriate manner in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and Council policy, ensuring that these are kept clean, secure, and serviceable Maintain accurate records including timesheets, work confirmations, machinery defect reports and incident forms

Training:
The apprenticeship is delivered from Bicton College, in the form of block weeks. The apprentice will spend their working time with the employer, and roughly every 6 weeks they will spend a full week at Bicton College. Accommodation is available on site You will be working towards a Level 2 Arborist apprenticeship standard You will receive on and off-the-job training and support from an assessor and an Apprenticeship Advisor

Training Outcome:

Dependent on role availability individuals could progress to an arborist role, or within the grounds maintenance team, however there are also many opportunities across the wider Community Services team and the wider councils.

Employer Description:
With around 570 staff across South Hams and West Devon we share the workload of both councils. We are rightly proud of our workforce. Two councils, one team. Situated in one of the most beautiful locations imaginable, the South Hams is a haven. An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with over 60 miles of stunning coast and countryside, there is nowhere quite like it. Rolling hills give way to picturesque coastlines, dotted with ancient woodlands, thriving towns and picture-postcard villages. Each one plays a vital role in shaping our future and driving our economy. There are many incredible reasons to work for South Hams and West Devon and by joining us you’ll be opening the door to our great range of staff benefits. We want all our colleagues to feel valued for their hard work and contribution to our award-winning councils. That’s why we have a comprehensive ‘Reap the Rewards’ scheme. So here is what you can have if you join our team! Benefits we offer include: • a competitive salary • up to 30 days per year (pro rata for part-time) plus the national bank holidays • work-life balance through our Ways of Working Policy • excellent Local Government Pension • electric car salary sacrifice scheme and cycle to work scheme • leisure centre membership discount scheme • head office free car parking • CSSC sports and leisure discounts, plus discounts at leisure centres in our area • eye tests and glasses scheme • home electronics scheme As a Disability Confident employer, we are committed to supporting individuals with disabilities in their job applications. We guarantee an interview to any disabled candidate who meets the essential criteria for a position. Additionally, we strive to help our disabled employees remain in their roles by making reasonable adjustments to their work patterns, equipment, or other necessary accommodations. We're keen to make sure wherever you are on the corporate career ladder, we help you to climb those rungs! We know that you want to be in a rewarding place with real opportunities to develop your career. That’s why we have great training opportunities, leadership development and essential learning through our learning portal. Together with personal development appraisals, regular one-to-one meetings with line managers and clear goal setting, your future is in good hands. So, if you’re starting out with an apprenticeship, or even retraining in a new skill, all the way up to a master’s degree level certificate, it’s all available. If you progress, we have a happy, brilliant team member who will continue to grow and develop while also benefiting the Councils. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Working Hours :
Arborist (37hours/ wk) 07:00 to 15:00 (M-Th) 07:00 to 14:30 (Fri) When the clocks change for winter 07:30 to 15:30 (M-Th) 07:30 to 15:00 (Fri) All times include 30min unpaid lunch.

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Customer care skills,Problem solving skills,Number skills,Team working,Initiative,Non judgemental