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Forest Worker

Do you want to become a Forest Worker? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Forest workers carry out a variety of tasks to help develop, maintain and protect forests. These tasks may include:

• general ground work, such as mowing, raking leaves and weeding
• planting new tree seedlings
• spraying young trees to kill insects and guard against disease
• clearing shrubs and other ground cover to promote the healthy growth of trees
• pruning trees and cutting coppice (small trees and bushes)
• thinning and felling trees by using chainsaws or computerised harvesting machines
• road building and general maintenance tasks, including fencing, digging drainage ditches and clearing nature trails
• maintaining fire-fighting equipment.

They usually work 37 hours a week. Some overtime and weekend work may be required. Part-time and casual work are possible. Self-employed foresters work on a seasonal basis and may work long hours. They spend most of their time outdoors in all weather conditions. The work involves lifting, climbing and walking long distances. It may be wet and muddy work.

Forest workers may earn between £11,264 and £20,704 a year.

A forest worker should be:

• fit, strong and able to undertake physical work
• mechanically minded
• able to work as part of a team, as well as on their own
• able to work quickly and efficiently
• safety conscious, particularly when operating machinery and felling trees
• interested in the environment.

There are around 10,000 forest workers and contractors in the UK. Many work for the Forestry Commission, private forestry companies, consultants and contractors, estates, charities, some statutory bodies and local authorities. There is also an increasing number of self-employed workers.

There are no set entry qualifications. Experience of forestry work is beneficial. There are a number of relevant full-time courses to help prepare for entry. Apprenticeships may also be available. Adult entry is possible.

Once in post, forestry workers may undertake NVQ/SVQ Level 2 in Forestry (Establishment or Harvesting) and Level 3 in Treework (Forestry Establishment or Forestry Harvesting).

Forest workers may be promoted to supervisory or managerial roles. With additional qualifications, they may progress to become forest officers.

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