Tree surgeon (Arborist) Apprentices: Ref: EE01626

Apprentice salary rates 2026:

Aged 21 and over: £12.84 per hour

Aged 18 to 20: £10.96 per hour

Aged under 18: £8.08 per hour

Highways, Transport and Operations are currently seeking dedicated individuals for the position of Tree Surgeon (Arborist) Apprentices.

These positions provide a fantastic opportunity to work within a wide range of arboriculture services while gaining practical, hands-on experience and essential industry qualifications.

This is an exceptional chance to build a fulfilling career in arboriculture. If you have a passion for tree care, a talent for documentation and record keeping, and an interest in learning more about various tree species and their care, we would be delighted to hear from you.

As an Arborist Apprentice, you will assist in the delivery of our diverse arboriculture services while undertaking learning and development to attain the necessary skills and qualifications to become a certified arborist. This comprehensive 24-month apprenticeship programme will immerse you in the industry and equip you with the knowledge and practical skills necessary for success.

You will have the opportunity to gain qualifications in Health and Safety, Arboriculture, and a variety of other industry-related certifications. Furthermore, you will gain practical experience in a range of tree care techniques and procedures, learning from experienced arborists in real-world situations.

Selection Process and Qualifications:

As part of the Apprenticeship, you may be required to undertake Functional Skills in English and Maths.

The selection process will include an initial assessment and an interview. During this process, we will evaluate your suitability, commitment, and interest in the programme.

Unique Residential Requirement:

Please note that this position includes a unique residential requirement for the duration of the apprenticeship. In the first year, apprentices are required to stay overnight at the college 4 nights per week for 7 non-consecutive weeks. In the second year, apprentices are required to stay overnight 4 nights per week for 3 non-consecutive weeks. Accommodation arrangements and further details will be discussed during the interview process.

Hours of work:

You will be expected to work between the hours of 7:30am to 3.39pm. Specific daily work patterns will be agreed upon to meet service demands. The position is 37 hours per week.

View Job Description and Employee Specification

Important note: When completing your online application form, you will be asked to enter supporting information. You must enter a detailed supporting information statement describing how your skills, abilities and experience meet the specific criteria included in the employee specification. If you do not include a supporting information statement, you will not be shortlisted. Please also ensure that you complete the work history and qualifications sections of your application form. Please do not add a CV as we do not accept them. Please see our Information for Applicants leaflet for further information.

We kindly request that recruitment agencies do not contact us regarding this job vacancy. We are not accepting agency applications or referrals at this time.

At Walsall Council, we appreciate that AI can be a useful tool for ideas or guidance. However, we encourage you to make sure your application reflects your own voice and experiences. Over-reliance on AI can make responses feel less personal, and we really want to understand what makes you unique. Your experiences, skills, and perspective are what set you apart, so please ensure your application as a whole – particularly your ‘Supporting Information’ – reflects your own voice.

Closing Date: 22nd May 2026.

Here at Walsall, we want to attract the best talent. That's why - as well as a satisfying and rewarding job - we offer a range of attractive benefits. Working arrangements in most jobs are flexible (you may work flexitime, full or part time and job sharing is usually available) and you can expect generous holiday entitlements, a first class pension scheme and plenty of opportunities for training and personal development.

We advertise vacancies because we want the best talent available. If that's you, we're waiting for your application.

Living in Walsall

Part of the Black Country, famous for its enterprising and industrial past, Walsall is reinventing itself to become a progressive modern community. The borough is centred around the major town of Walsall, but also includes five smaller and distinctive district centres (Bloxwich, Aldridge, Willenhall, Darlaston and Brownhills), together with numerous villages.

Walsall Council is committed to Safer Recruitment.

To achieve our commitment, we will ensure continuous development and improvement of robust recruitment processes and procedures that promote a culture of safeguarding amongst our workforce.

Social Work Matters - Children's Social Worker Recruitment

Some of our children require a special kind of support: yours. Visit our microsite to find out more about joining Walsall Council as a Children's Social Worker.

Walsall Council

Latest Jobs

Tree surgeon (Arborist) Apprentice - Ref: EE01626