Forest Craftsperson

About Forestry England

Forestry England is dedicated to managing and nurturing the nation's forests, focusing on sustainable practices that benefit the environment and communities. We manage vast and diverse woodlands across England, supporting biodiversity, air quality, and sustainable timber production.

Position Overview

The Forest Craftsperson role involves a wide range of practical forestry tasks carried out primarily outdoors. The successful candidate will assist the beat forester in managing and caring for forest lands through various field operations while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.

Key Duties

• Conduct surveys including measurement and tariffing of forest areas.
• Perform tree safety inspections and related maintenance.
• Carry out planting and establishment activities to support forest growth.
• Operate independently and collaboratively to deliver efficient and safe forestry operations.

Work Location

This position is based at the Cookworthy Forest office near Halwill, within the West England Forest District. This district encompasses over 37,000 hectares of diverse habitats and woodland types, including ancient woodlands and plantations across western and southwestern England.

Benefits and Conditions

• Annual salary of £26,959.
• Permanent contract with 37 hours per week.
• 25 days holiday per year, increasing by one day annually up to 30 days, plus bank holidays (pro-rated for part-time).
• Access to the STaR employee benefits scheme offering discounts on shopping, travel, wellness, and more.
• Pension contributions averaging 28.97% towards the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension Scheme.
• Free parking at Forestry England sites and ticket-free entry to National Arboretums at Westonbirt and Bedgebury.
• Support for professional development and lifelong learning, including membership sponsorship of relevant bodies.

Selection and Application Process

Applicants are required to submit a 200-word statement outlining relevant experience and career history, plus a personal statement not exceeding 500 words. The interview will evaluate technical skills and competencies including teamwork, decision-making, communication, and service quality. Successful candidates must complete criminal record and government security checks.

Additional Information

• All applicants must possess proficient spoken English for effective communication.
• Forestry England is committed to disability confident recruitment practices and offers guaranteed interviews to disabled applicants meeting the minimum criteria.
• The organization provides support for veterans, prison leavers, and redeployed civil servants.
• Reasonable adjustments for applicants with disabilities can be requested via email.