The Technical Assessment Officer role provides internal Council departments with a centralised contact to obtain specialised Arboricultural advice to guide design and implementation of projects. The position will respond to development related internal referrals requests and provide quality technical assistance within sufficient time frames. You will undertake complex tree assessments, form tree management plans and develop prescribed works specifications. The position plays a critical role in ensuring the amenity, safety and future of Council’s tree population is maintained.

The role will oversee the expansion of the Council’s cyclical tree assessment program to ensure adequate oversight over the Council’s existing recorded tree assets is maintained. The role will work closely with Biodiversity and Civil Services officers to ensure adequate consideration is given to Arboricultural matters during the assessment of applications to modify land under the care and control of the Council.

You will support the Coordinator Arboriculture to develop and implement new programs, policies and procedures to assist in the implementation of Council’s (draft) Tree Strategy. You will work alongside Council’s Arborist – Program Delivery Officer and Work Group Leader Arboriculture to assist with the implementation of operational service requirements.

About Adelaide Hills Council

The Adelaide Hills Council is a magnificent place to live, work and visit. The environmental, residential, primary production and natural qualities of the district are renowned and contribute to the Adelaide Hills being "a special place", and one of Australia's most loved areas. Adelaide Hills Council is committed to building the community through leadership, community involvement and commitment to service.

We offer a diverse and supportive working environment, opportunities for professional development, flexible work practices, income protection insurance and a genuine desire for you to enjoy your work.

Arborist Technical Assessment Officer

• Undertake tree risk assessments and develop of prescribed works specifications.
• Provide high tree management recommendations, level technical written and verbal advice to internal stakeholders, including legislative interpretations, and complex problem solving.
• Review and assess development applications, interpret supporting Arboricultural advice.
• Support investigations regarding compliance matters relating to trees.
• Develop and implement programs to improve environmental and Arboricultural outcomes.
• Develop new policies and procedures to enable the draft Tree Strategy to be delivered and directly oversee the management of Council’s tree population
• Comply with the Council’s WHS, Injury Management (IM) and Risk Management requirements to ensure work is undertaken in a way that minimises risk to ensure staff and public safety.
• Promote a team culture of accountability, service excellence and continuous improvement.
• Support Arboriculture team to deliver high quality Arboriculture works and adherence to regulatory and environmental requirements.
• Monitor and maintain assets and ensure timely reporting on work progress, risk issues, and community requests. Maintain current and accurate records, registers and asset data in relevant software systems (e.g., Confirm).
• Build strong working relationships with internal teams, contractors, regulatory agencies and the community to ensure effective service delivery.
• Respond to customer service requests and community enquiries in a timely and informative manner, providing education and resolution where appropriate.
• Support the Manager Open Space and contribute to the delivery of corporate initiatives.

About You

• To be successful in this role you will have:
• Diploma of Arboriculture (AHC50524) or equivalent qualification and experience.
• International Society of Arboriculture Tree Risk Assessment Qualification TRAQ
• Demonstrated ability to implement Arboriculture works programs in a government setting.
• Knowledge of industry standards, best practices and relevant legislation (Local Government Act, Native Vegetation Act, Landscape SA Act & PDI Act).
• High analytical decision-making & problem-solving skills.
• Experience using asset management systems such as Confirm and or other asset management systems.
• Comprehensive understanding of safe work practices and legislative WHS responsibilities.
• Developed and implemented new policies & procedures.
• Ability to provide high level technical written advice that complies with current and relevant legislation.
• Demonstrated ability to undertake tree risk assessments and develop prescribed works specifications.
• Demonstrated achievement in delivering high-quality, responsive customer service, particularly in managing community expectations regarding tree matters.
• Ability to maintain service levels and respond proactively to internal and external service requests

A valid National Police Certificate and Medical Clearance which is satisfactory to the Council’s requirements will be required before the successful applicant can commence in this position.

About our Benefits

• Experience the benefits of a career in council:
• Flexible working arrangements, including flexi-time.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Free income protection insurance for personal illnesses or injuries.
• A health and wellbeing program offering flu vaccinations, skin checks, health seminars and more.
• Free access to three counselling sessions for you or your immediate family through our Employee Assistance Program.
• Corporate Uniform Allowance.
• Opportunity to purchase additional annual leave.
• Study Assistance.

How to Apply

Applications must directly respond to the essential position criteria in the position description and state the reference number 572. Please see below, a copy of the position description.

Apply by 5:00pm Sunday 21st September 2025 via SEEK. Confidential enquiries are welcome to Damian Brennan 0447 401 183.

The advert information can be provided in other formats if requested.

Should your application be successful and move to the next stage, you will be contacted by the Hiring Manager. If you do not receive any communication regarding your application within 20 business days of the advertisement close date your application has been unsuccessful.