Arborist

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth. We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history. Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.

The role: As an Arborist at RBG Kew, you will be part of the Tree Collections and Arboricultural team within the Department of Living Collections. You will play a hands-on role in maintaining approximately 11,000 trees across Kew’s historic landscapes and arboretum. This role combines practical arboriculture with the chance to help set national standards for tree care within a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will work alongside experienced arborists and support scientific research and conservation projects.

Job requirements: We are looking for a motivated and practical individual with experience in arboricultural operations. The ideal candidate will have relevant arboricultural qualifications or training and experience of tree inspection, pruning, and maintenance in line with industry standards such as BS 3998 and BS 5837. A good working knowledge of tree health, risk management, and the safe use and maintenance of arboricultural equipment and machinery is essential. You should be a reliable team player with the ability to follow procedures, maintain high standards of work, and contribute positively to a busy operational team. Good communication skills, a strong awareness of health and safety, and the ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions are required. An interest in tree conservation, biodiversity, and supporting scientific research is highly desirable, as is a willingness to learn and adapt in support of Kew’s Living Collections Strategy and Manifesto for Change.

Benefits: Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.