Synopsis
Grow Your Career Where It Matters Most
Asset Officer – Arborist
Permanent Full Time | Wangaratta, VIC | $88,121 per annum + Super
Do you see trees not just as part of the landscape, but as living assets that shape the future of a community? Are you passionate about sustainable urban forestry, long-term planning, and making a real impact you can see every day?
Join the Rural City of Wangaratta as our next Asset Officer – Arboriculture and take the lead in managing, protecting, and enhancing the trees that define our region — from vibrant streetscapes to expansive open spaces.
Why This Role Stands Out
At Wangaratta, we're not simply maintaining trees — we're building a greener, healthier, more resilient future. This is your chance to step into a pivotal role where your arboricultural expertise directly shapes our municipality's strategy, sustainability, and liveability.
You'll be the trusted specialist guiding our tree planning, preservation, and protection programs across both urban and rural environments. Your insights will influence planning decisions, drive long-term strategy, and ensure our green assets continue to thrive for generations.
What You'll Lead
Delivery of maintenance, renewal, watering, and stump removal programs
Management of the tree asset register and the 5-Year Tree Asset Audit
Inspections, risk assessments, and expert arboricultural advice
Contractor oversight, procurement, budgeting, and safety compliance
Implementation of key strategies including the Tree Management Strategy and Electric Line Clearance Plan
Chairing cross-department Tree Planning Meetings
Advocacy and education around tree protection within Council and the community
Who You Are
You're more than an arborist — you're a strategic thinker with a passion for green infrastructure. You understand trees as essential community assets and know how to balance science, safety, sustainability, and community needs.
You Bring
Certificate IV or higher in Arboriculture, with hands-on experience
Proven capability in managing tree asset databases and maintenance programs
Strong communication skills and confidence engaging stakeholders at all levels
Competence with Excel, Word, TechOne, and arboricultural asset systems
A current Driver Licence (QTRA qualification highly regarded)
The ability to plan, prioritise, and manage projects and contractors independently
If you're ready to shape the future of Wangaratta's urban forest and leave a lasting legacy, this is your opportunity to grow your career where it truly matters.
Why Work for Rural City of Wangaratta?
Joining our team comes with a variety of exciting benefits, including:
Inclusive, supportive, and nurturing work environment
Ongoing training and professional development opportunities to help you achieve your career goals
Corporate benefits, including flu injections and reduced gym memberships
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health and wellbeing support
Paid Parental Leave
Option to purchase additional annual leave for permanent full-time and part-time employees
Flexible work arrangements and accrued days off (ADO)
The satisfaction of working in a role where your decisions have real, visible impact on your community
For more information and to view the position description, please visit our website at For enquiries about this position, please contact Lee Whitmore - Horticulture Coordinator on
Applications close at 3pm on Monday, 23 February 2026, although the right candidate may be appointed earlier.
Rural City of Wangaratta is a child safe and equal opportunity employer. Employment applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds are encouraged. In addition, applications for positions that work with children must provide referees who can comment on their experience working with children. These roles also require a valid Working with Children Check and all roles require a National Criminal History Check.
Ready to Apply?
To submit your application, please include:
A short cover letter outlining your interest in the role
Your current resume with at least two referees
A document addressing the key selection criteria (use each criterion as a heading)
Copies of any relevant qualifications or licences
Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Other
Industries
Government Administration