Estate Forester

About the Role

We are seeking a motivated Estate Forester to join our small woodland management team of three. This is a hands-on, varied role suited to someone with formal forestry training who is comfortable working outdoors in all weather, both independently and as part of a tight-knit crew. You will play an active part in the day-to-day management of the Estate's 1,400 acres of woodland, covering everything from planting and maintenance to timber extraction and firewood processing.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out forwarding operations, extracting timber from felling sites to roadside or processing areas
• Undertake tree planting programmes, including ground preparation, planting, and aftercare (weeding, beating up, protection from browsing)
• Perform general woodland maintenance, including ride and boundary clearance, drainage upkeep, fencing, and deer/rabbit protection measures
• Process felled timber to required specifications using a chainsaw, including cross-cutting, debranching, and stacking, in addition to operating the firewood processor as part of the Estates’ commercial firewood business
• Operate and carry out routine maintenance on chainsaws, forwarding equipment, and other forestry machinery
• Work safely and efficiently as part of a 3-person team, supporting colleagues across all aspects of the operational programme
• Maintain accurate records of work completed, timber volumes, and stock movements
• Adhere to all health and safety procedures and relevant forestry legislation (e.g. UKFS, felling licence conditions)
• Contribute to habitat and biodiversity management as part of wider estate conservation objectives

Essential Requirements

• Competent and experienced in operating tractors safely and effectively
• Strong understanding and appreciation of woodland maintenance practices and silvicultural systems
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and undertake physically demanding tasks
• A strong commitment to health and safety in a forestry environment
• A full, clean driving licence (tractor/trailer licence an advantage)
• Good teamwork and communication skills

Desirable

• A valid chainsaw certificate of competence (e.g. CS30/31 felling and processing; CS38 maintenance) — units in cross-cutting and small tree felling required as a minimum
• A relevant forestry or arboriculture qualification (e.g. National Diploma/HND in Forestry, Forest Management, or similar)
• Additional tickets such as CS39 (winching), brushcutter, or first aid at work
• Experience operating a forwarder or similar extraction machinery
• Knowledge of pesticide/herbicide application (PA1/PA6 certification)
• Familiarity with deer management or wider estate conservation work

What We Offer

• On-the-job training and opportunities for further qualifications
• Provision of accommodation can be discussed
• Working as part of a supportive, experienced small team in a beautiful rural setting