Arboriculturists are responsible for the cultivation and management of trees, hedgerows and shrubs in cities, the countryside and conservation areas. The work includes preserving, planting and protecting trees, as well as all aspects of felling. They make sure that trees and shrubs are planted and maintained in an attractive and safe way. An arboriculturist works at a supervisory, managerial or consultancy level.
Jobs may vary, but the main tasks usually include:
- preparing strategies, management plans and specifications for tree work
- selecting plants and designing landscaping schemes
- managing tree care and tree planting projects, tree work contracts and pruning and felling programmes
- commissioning or carrying out tree inspections and surveys
- inspecting trees and shrubs to identify pests and diseases, applying knowledge of tree biology for effective tree maintenance
- recognising stress and disease symptoms in trees and offering health and safety management advice to tree owners, managers and the general public.
Arboriculturists also provide advice to members of the public and organisations or businesses on tree issues, planting and safety. A lot of time is usually spent investigating current conservation and tree management projects and preparing and writing reports.
They may manage the work of tree surgeons or arborists.
They need a good knowledge of relevant legislation, including planning law and health and safety. They may have to liaise with engineers, solicitors and insurance companies, be involved in serving tree preservation orders and represent their organisation at planning appeals.
Hours and environment
Arboriculturists work around 35 to 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. They may be on call some evenings or weekends for emergencies.
Part of their work is office based. There is also a large amount of outside work in all weather conditions. This can include considerable amounts of walking and standing during site visits. Carrying out inspections may involve climbing trees. Appropriate safety clothing, such as helmets or gloves, must be worn for inspection work.
Some arboriculturists work in a city, on a country estate or in a woodland area where specialist care of individual trees is required. Others work in a range of different locations. Travel between locations is likely, so a driving licence is necessary.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- Starting salaries for trainees may be around £16,000 a year.
- Experienced arboriculturists may earn between £20,000 and £30,000.
- Senior arboriculturists/department heads/consultants may earn up to £35,000, or more.
Skills and personal qualities
An arboriculturist should:
- be knowledgeable about the care and management of trees and shrubs
- be good at strategic and management planning
- have good leadership qualities
- have an understanding of civil engineering and construction techniques
- be able to research and report on conservation and management issues
- have an awareness of health and safety issues
- be well organised, with good oral and written communication skills
- be able to plan and manage their own workload
- be able to deal confidently with others on a one-to-one or group basis.
Interests
It is important to:
- want to work for much of the time
- be interested in conserving and protecting the natural environment.
Getting in
Work in arboriculture is expanding as interest in the environment and conservation of the countryside, trees and woodlands grows.
Arboriculturists work for local government, organisations such as the National Trust, arboricultural and landscaping contractors, private landowners, other private businesses and consultancies.
Useful Links:
Aboricultural Association of Ireland