Do you want to become a Timber Technologist? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:
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Timber technologists work within the timber industry, usually as managers. Some positions involve research and development, but the majority of posts are involved in the importing, processing, saw milling and treatment of wood and wood products.
Timber technologists usually work a 39 hour week, from Monday to Friday, although some posts may require Saturday work. The work can be based in a workshop or factory, an office or on site. It can be physically demanding and may involve lifting heavy objects. The work environment may be noisy and dusty.
Salaries range from around £13,260 to £30,000, or more.
A timber technologist should be:
Employers include importers, manufacturers, sawmills and timber merchants, with opportunities for work nationwide.
Most entrants are graduates with relevant degrees, however there are opportunities for school leavers with A levels or at least three GCSEs/S Grades (A-C/1-3) preferably in English, maths and a science/technical subject, or the equivalent.
There is no age limit for this type of work and experience in the industry can be accepted as an alternative to qualifications.
Applicants without a degree can study for qualifications through the Institute of Wood Science (IWSc). The IWSc provides awards at Certificate and Associate level, which are recognised as NVQ/SVQ Level 3 and 4 equivalents. Each award lasts for a year and students have to pay a course fee. There are also relevant NVQ/SVQ courses.
The industry supports continuous professional development and employees may be encouraged to further their qualifications. HNC/HND and degree courses are available, as well as higher degrees, eg a Masters or PhD in timber engineering and forest products technology.
Promotion prospects often improve with further training. Promotion can be to more senior roles within the industry. Some timber technologists become buyers or move into research work. Research opportunities within the UK are rare, but there is overseas work in Canada, New Zealand and Scandinavia, in particular.
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