Trainee Arborist

Trainee Arborist

• Full-time traineeship role with Willoughby City Council
• Gain on-the-job skills and complete a Certificate III in Horticulture (Arboriculture)
• Salary aligned with Local Government Award trainee rates, plus 12% superannuation

Make a Difference Where You Work

Willoughby City Council is seeking a motivated Trainee Arborist. This role is ideal for someone who is either eligible to begin, or is already enrolled in, a Certificate III in Horticulture (Arboriculture – Climbing). As part of your training and development, you'll be required to attend one off-site learning day per week for approximately two years.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about trees and the environment to start a rewarding career in arboriculture.

Why Join Us?

• Work That Matters: Contribute to the care of Willoughby's urban forest and ensure the safety and health of trees across our community
• Start Your Career Right: Gain practical, hands-on experience while working towards a nationally recognised qualification
• Learn from the Experts: Learn from experienced professionals committed to your training and growth
• Grow with Council: Be supported by a future-focused, values-driven organisation that's committed to your development

About the Role

• As a Trainee Arborist, you will:
  
  Work safely in accordance with legislation and industry standards
• Demonstrate a strong willingness and ability to learn
• Contribute productively as a member of a small team
• Develop skills in identifying vegetation, tree health, structure, retention value, and root protection zones.
• Progressively learn to interpret landscape plans and undertake other duties as directed within role competencies

What You'll Bring

• School Certificate/Higher School Certificate/ Record of School Achievement (RoSA) or equivalent
• Class C Driver's Licence (Pl Licence also acceptable).
• Eligibility to commence, or current enrolment in, a Certificate III in Horticulture (Arboriculture – Climbing), with a commitment to attending one off-site learning day per week over approximately two years as part of your formal training and development.
• Demonstrated basic knowledge in and a genuine interest to pursue a career in Arboriculture.
• Well-developed communication and numeracy skills.
• Commitment to providing excellent customer service.
• Demonstrated ability to follow instructions and work collaboratively as part of a team.

How to apply

Visit to apply or learn more including all about the range of benefits on offer at Willoughby.

For more information, contact Philip Jones, Streetscapes Supervisor, at or on

Applications should address all of the key responsibilities outlined in the Position Description.

Successful candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening including police and qualification checks.

Applications close: Sunday, 31 August 2025 at 11.30 pm

Please note recruitment activity may commence before the closing date.

At Willoughby City Council, inclusion, diversity and belonging are core to how we work and how we recruit. We are committed to building a workplace that reflects the diversity of our community – one where everyone feels respected, valued and supported to contribute fully. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities and identities – including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, LGBTIQA+ communities, veterans, and people of all ages. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, we encourage you to let us know. We are committed to ensuring an accessible, inclusive and barrier-free experience for every candidate.