About the role
In this strategic level position, you will be responsible for leading the Tree Management team in providing strategic and statutory referral responses to guide urban development. You will advocate for urban forest and open space strategic priorities to guide the development of relevant elements of the Planning Scheme, including Precinct Structure Plans across the municipality. Providing arboricultural advice based on research, investigation and an understanding of current trends, policies, planning controls and relevant procedures and legislation.

Work type: Permanent Full Time
Classification: Band 7 $103,066 - $114,319 pa plus super

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead the Parks Planning team’s monitoring, allocation, reporting and preparation of timely responses to statutory planning referrals and development applications.
• Liaise with other City departments, property developers and consultants to review, revise and approve plans for public open space that are consistent with the City’s relevant policy and standards.
• Provide an information base for Council, the community, government agencies, developers and the local business sector regarding strategic/structure plans and policies.
• Develop, maintain and interpret relevant quantitative and qualitative data sets, conduct research and monitor usage trends to inform and improve planning responses.

About you
To be successful in this role, you will be experienced in arboriculture, with the ability to understand and interpret Victorian planning legislation as it relates to the provision of public open space. You will require the confidence to engage with a diverse range of people in and the ability to positively negotiate and influence in order to effectively deliver solid results for the City.

• Specialist knowledge of tree species selection, streetscape design and ongoing tree maintenance requirements
• Detailed knowledge and application of urban planning issues, relevant policies and the planning role of local, state and federal governments.
• Ability to collect, analyse and interpret data from a range of sources, to inform policy development and planning decisions
• Experience in managing a team and providing effective and inspiring leadership to junior staff.
• Tertiary qualifications in Arboriculture, or a similar discipline plus arboricultural experience
• Preferred candidates will be required to undergo a National Police Check and a pre-employment medical assessment as part of the recruitment process (funded by the City).

If this sounds like the role for you, then click apply now! 

Child Safety Responsibilities   
We are committed to being a child-safe organisation and have zero-tolerance for child abuse. We have specific policies, procedures, and mandatory training in place to support employees, volunteers, and contractors to achieve and adhere to these commitments. Please read our Child Safe Standards Management Policy.  

Diversity and Inclusion  
At the City we want a workforce that reflects the community we live in. We welcome and embrace everyone, all people with their own unique experiences, and support and encourage all our employees to do their best work, have equal access to opportunities and a just working environment. For this reason, we particularly welcome and encourage applications from First Nations people, people with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, from the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disability and people of all genders, ages and diverse experience.  

We are the City
From parks to offices, childcare centres to works depots, leisure facilities to the Wool Museum and waterfront, our team plays a vital role in shaping our vibrant and growing community. Our community counts on us to get the essentials right while looking for ways to go beyond. By listening, collaborating, and focusing on sustainability, we strive to do the basics brilliantly and create a lasting impact. If you’re ready to be part of something bigger, join us in shaping the future of Geelong.

We support accessibility and encourage discussions about any adjustments or support you may need during the recruitment process.

Applications and Enquiries

Click the Position Description link to view more information about this position.

Enquiries: Sarah Priestley, Coordinator Tree Management | 5272 4946 | spriestley@geelongcity.vic.gov.au 

Click the Apply button to submit your application or find out more about this opportunity. If we can assist you with any reasonable adjustments in order to submit your application for this role, please contact the Talent Acquisition team via email at careers@geelongcity.vic.gov.au noting your preferred method of communication and contact details and a member of the team will be in touch.

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