Head Arborist F/M
We are looking for a Head Arborist F/M to join our teams at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) which honours the 1.7 million men and women of the Commonwealth forces who died in the First and Second World Wars, ensuring they will never be forgotten. Our work commemorates the war dead, from building and maintaining our cemeteries and memorials at 23,000 locations in more than 150 countries to preserving our extensive records and archives. Our values and aims, laid out in 1917, are as relevant now as they were 100 years ago.
Location : Beaurains located Rue Angèle Richard, CS10109, Beaurains, Hauts de France 62217 -Frequent travel is to be expected
Contract type : Permanent contract
Salary : To be determined according to profile
Benefits : Medical insurance (Mutuelle) - Provident Scheme (Prévoyance) - 13th month from 6 months of seniority
Working hours: 35 hours per week
Job Description :
The post holder will be leading a highly specialised team maintaining and felling trees. This post requires competencies in both managerial and manual skills.
Key responsibilities:
- Supports the Horticultural Supervisor in evaluating the maintenance work necessary to maintain the level of excellence expected from visiting the group’s sites. Ensure that the work programme is carried out by the Tree team in accordance with Commission standards.
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Supports the Horticultural Supervisor in the management of the Tree team; assists with the organisation, within structured timescales, the physical presence/rotation of the team throughout the year according to the need and in compliance with the legal framework; assists with the organisation/anticipation of the requirements in relation to equipment, materials according to the pre-established annual timescales, and delivers assigned objectives.
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Develops team members and identifies individual performance. Allocates and monitors development opportunities/projects within the group.
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Investigates disciplinary matters within the team in support of and together with management/HR when necessary
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Check and use the "Kleyk" app before and during each job.
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Ensures the safety for himself, Tree team members, colleagues and any visitors to the work site.
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Ensures that his/her climbing equipment is inspected and recorded every two weeks always up to standard and regularly serviced; keeps all machinery, equipment, and vehicles in good running order, reporting defects to the Horticultural Department office and arranging servicing or repairs.
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Sets the daily work programme and is responsible for the day-to-day control of staff and resources.
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Ensures the appropriate safety standards are met, the correct PPE is worn, and the team uses the appropriate climbing methods/techniques.
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Checks the climbing inspection records of the team’s climbers after each individual inspection (every two weeks).
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Carries out care work, felling, pruning at height, in compliance with the procedures and safety rules of the work and of the Commission using all specific equipment (chainsaw, branch chipper, log splitter, stump grinder, and all hand tools, …)
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Applies the Commission's health and safety procedures and sets standards for the team members.
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Continuously improving knowledge and skills.
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Follows guidance and instructions of the Horticultural Supervisor.
- The post holder can be transferred to a general horticultural/renovation team in case of operational needs.
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Ensures the regular maintenance of arboricultural machinery and equipment.
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Reports breakdowns of machinery and equipment to the Horticultural Department office and arranges maintenance and/or repairs.
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Ensures compliance with health and safety requirements.
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Pragmatic and practical person with good planning and organisational skills.
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Self-motivated with the ability to develop by practice and experience.
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Plans, organises and defines the daily work programme.
- Manages and assumes responsibility for team members.
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Provides daily control of staff and resources.
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Instructs staff by demonstrating good work practices; participates in the development of all team members and assists with the identification of individual potential/talent.
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Sets standards of performance and behaviour at work.
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Identify when a team member’s work or behaviour gives cause for concern, notify line management and HR and investigate disciplinary matters under guidance.
- Evaluates the performance of team members on a daily basis, conducts annual appraisals and regular interviews.
Instructs staff by demonstrating correct working practice, assessing performance and identifying training needs. -
Cooperates with mobile groups and Support team.
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Ability to manage a team by building and maintaining good working relationships with all staff.
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Solves problems and is able to make final decisions.
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Collaborates with Senior Head Gardeners/Head Gardeners
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Ensures compliance with safety standards using specialised equipment and ensures that staff wear PPE (personal protective equipment) and work clothing.
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Open and honest communication, strong listening skills.
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Feels comfortable communicating with different teams and team leaders.
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Facilitates the regular exchange of information.
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Demonstrates professional credibility and acts with integrity.
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An alignment with and adherence to the Commission's Values which are formed around the concept of CARE - Commitment, Ambition, Respect, Excellence.
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Health and Safety responsibility for self and others.
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Valid B driving licence.
Profil required :
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Computer literate and familiar with MS Office and Internet software, or willingness to learn.
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The post holder must be able to drive the team vehicle or be prepared to take the HGV driving licence.
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Work at heights including nacelles and climbing.
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Chainsaw certification
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A valid Tree Climbing Rescue (GSA) qualification (valid for two years).
How to Apply:
Apply via our Career Portal by clicking the ‘Apply Now’ button.
We believe creating a diverse environment enriches our organisation and strengthens our mission, therefore, we welcome applications from everybody. Join our inclusive environment where every individual is valued.
