Arboriculture Apprentice

Typical Tasks / Responsibilities

A career in arboriculture is best suited for those interested in the care and study of trees. An interest in working outdoors in a physically challenging environment is necessary, with a good head for heights, while keeping fit and learning new challenges in a continually changing environment – as every tree is unique in its own right.

Arborists manage trees, hedgerows and shrubs. The work is undertaken in both rural and urban settings and includes all aspects of felling, pruning, thinning, rigging, section felling, preserving, planting and protecting trees, sometimes using heavy equipment. They also provide information and advice on specific tree-related issues. There is an increasing focus on maintaining a safe relationship between the trees, their immediate environment and the general public.

The role of the Arborist is to carry out any required arboriculture works in a correct manner that meets the objectives in its environment and to industry standards. The arborist should possess the skills that enable him/her to carry out such work in a manner that doesn’t put them, their crew, or the general public at risk, nor cause damage to existing structures, while meeting required standards.

• Distinguish the use and application of arboricultural equipment.

• Undertake a full range of tree surgery works from the ground and in a tree.

• Take appropriate care of tools, equipment, customer property and PPE.

• Awareness of the impact of misuse of equipment.

• Evaluate environmental, wildlife, health and safety legislation, standards and codes of practice.

• Specialist knowledge: Tree Preservation Orders, Conservation Areas, Forest Service Felling Acts, electrical safety near power lines.

• Conduct hazard tree assessments and surveys.

• Understand tree protection for construction projects.

• Understand traffic management obligations and basic electrical awareness for Utility Arborists.

• Understand benefits of trees, principles of establishment, growth and care of trees and shrubs.

• Awareness of related disciplines such as forestry.

• Define procedures for incidents and emergencies.

• Understand electrical line structures and voltages.

• Demonstrate pre-work planning, method statements and site-specific job aids.

• Identify and select different tree types (dendrology).

• Identify and manage pests, diseases and disorders.

• Understand tree biology.

• Conduct surveys for underground cables and services.

• Select plants and design landscaping schemes.

• Appraise tree and plant inventories.

• Apply tree biology knowledge for maintenance.

• Conduct tree inspections and supervised climbing surveys.

• Interpret soil testing.

• Plan long-term tree placement and maintenance.

• Advise on tree preservation and development site suitability.

• Analyse safety documents and justify decisions.

• Recognise onsite health and safety needs.

• Select, load and unload equipment safely.

• Inspect plant material.

• Maintain effective internal and external relationships.

• Interact professionally with supervisors and work colleagues.

• Delegate and seek advice when needed.

• Supervise a team.

• Liaise with external providers.

Verbal

• Communicate clearly with supervisors, colleagues and clients.

• Conduct toolbox talks.

• Use clear commands as climber or groundsman.

Written

• Produce reports for engineers, solicitors, mortgage/insurance companies.

• Provide evidence-informed tree information (e.g., roots causing subsidence).

• Develop a Safe System of Work Plan.

Listening

• Listen and interpret instructions effectively.

Digital

• Produce and access documentation (e.g., Arbpro, email).

• Support aerial workers (MEWP and climbers).

• Perform aerial rescue from harness or MEWP.

• Perform a range of ground-based pruning operations.

• Operate chainsaws, wood chippers, stump grinders, MEWPs, excavators, forestry cranes, tractors and diagnostic equipment safely.

• Demonstrate climbing, pruning, felling, rigging, knots, chipping, rescue techniques, machinery maintenance, tree planting and dismantling.

• Conduct specialist tasks (bracing, propping, rope-assist felling, winching).

• Perform groundsman duties and hedge cutting with machinery.

• Reliable attendance and punctuality.

• Takes direction and responsibility.

• Good listening skills.

• Professional in appearance, language and behaviour.

• Strong work ethic.

• Values health and safety.

• Follows and reflects on safety procedures.

• Works well both independently and in a team.

• Maintains a safety-first mindset.

• Follows through on tasks.

• Shows awareness of self, others, and environmental impact.

• Climb and rig with strong physical fitness.

• Confident working at heights.

• Maintains high fitness levels.

• Works well under pressure.

• Shows patience and calmness.

Arboriculture in Ireland is largely made up of independent employers, with an increasing need for an internationally recognised standard. Issues include attracting and retaining workers and the lack of a clear career path.

Industry partners include: North West Forest Services, Kilcoyne Tree Surgery, Treepro, ESB Networks, Arboriculture Association – Ireland, Ballyhaise College, Teagasc, GMIT, and others consulted through employer engagement.

Due to potential literacy and numeracy issues identified within the industry, GR ETB will provide support (Study & Learning Handbook, Introductory Maths Course, integrated literacy/numeracy support).

Minimum entry requirements:

• Must be employed by an approved employer.

• Level 4 Award or equivalent.

• Non-EU applicants must meet work permit regulations.

• English language competence at B1 (reading and writing). OR

• Minimum 12 months relevant experience in a related trade or Arborist employment.

• Interview with SME and GRETB personnel.

RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) Applications will be assessed through RPL policy, with consultation, documentation and assessment.