Forest Worker

Forest workers care for and manage woodland areas and forests. They play an important part in protecting ecological and animal habitats and enhancing the future landscape of the UK.

The job involves carrying out practical activities to establish, maintain and preserve forested areas. Duties usually include:

• conducting forest surveys and assessing tree density
• carrying out tree safety inspections, marking and measuring trees to be cut down
• doing general groundwork to clear sites and undergrowth
• planting new tree seedlings and providing nutrients to plants
• digging or installing more efficient drainage systems.

Forest workers typically work standard hours, Monday to Friday, although some overtime and weekend work may be necessary. Work can be seasonal and longer days may be necessary during peak times. They spend most of their time working outdoors in all weather conditions. The work can be physically challenging and potentially hazardous, requiring the use of power tools and heavy machinery.

Forest workers may earn between £13,697 and £23,500 a year.

A forest worker should be:

• responsible and safety conscious
• team focused, but also confident working independently
• courteous and professional
• interested in the environment.

The UK tree and timber industry employs around 22,500 people, many as forest workers. The largest employer is the Forestry Commission. Private estates, local authorities, conservation organisations and charities, government agencies and forest management companies also employ forest workers. Most jobs are found in rural locations. Around 50 per cent of forest workers are self-employed.

There are no set academic qualifications required, although GCSEs in English, science and maths are useful. It may also be possible to enter this career through an Apprenticeship programme.

The Diploma in environmental and land-based studies is also an advantageous qualification to have achieved prior to employment, an Apprenticeship or further study.

Forest workers are encouraged to gain technical and professional qualifications for operating forest tools and machinery. These include a Level 3 NVQ in tree work and Level 2 Certificates of Competence in chainsaw and related operations.

With large employers, such as the Forestry Commission, it may be possible to progress to senior forest worker or works supervisor. Many experienced forest workers become self-employed and contract out their services. With further qualifications, it may be possible to advance to forest officer level.

Further details