Unit Manager Urban Forest

About the role

Merri-bek City Council is looking for a Unit Manager Urban Forest to lead the care, protection and growth of a diverse, healthy and climate-resilient urban forest. The role leads the people, strategy and services behind the trees and natural spaces, balancing day-to-day delivery with long-term planning, investment and improvement. It is a full-time permanent position (about 38 hours per week) based in Hadfield with hybrid working, at Senior Executive Officer salary level.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the care, protection and growth of the urban forest, including protecting trees on private land
• Ensure Council provides trusted arboricultural advice and manage tree-related risk while protecting community benefit
• Turn the Urban Forest Strategy into visible outcomes and shape policy, planning and long-term investment
• Lead maintenance, planting and renewal programs and strengthen asset management and service planning
• Create a safety-first culture and be accountable for service performance, financial management and resource use
• Build partnerships with Traditional Owners and community groups, and contribute to emergency management as a Deputy Municipal Emergency Management Officer on an after-hours roster

Required profile

• A qualification in arboriculture or a related discipline, or substantial experience leading urban forest and tree maintenance services
• People-first leadership style and a commitment to workplace health and safety, with knowledge of Victorian requirements
• Strong financial and commercial judgement, including budgeting, forecasting and contract management
• Experience managing complex services; local government experience is welcome but not required
• Current Working with Children Check required; a driver's licence and WWCC may be requested

What we offer

• Training and career development, employer-supported study assistance and wellness programs
• Flexible and hybrid work options and salary sacrifice options
• Parental leave (up to 20 weeks primary, up to 5 weeks secondary), purchase leave, ceremonial leave, gender affirmation leave and family violence leave

Applications close on 22 November 2026 and must be submitted online with a CV and cover letter.