At Forestry England a forest manager takes care of a particular forest or several woodlands in a geographical area. They oversee activities such as timber production, and conservation and recreation activities. Providing homegrown timber to the nation is at the heart of this role.
The role involves the creation of multipurpose forests whilst maintaining world-class, sustainable forest management standards. Forest managers have oversight of the many associated activities that may take place in our forests, such as commercial interests and public access.
Being able to establish a balance between competing economic and social demands (for forest and land use) can present a challenge and requires great organisational and communication skills.
What it takes
A forest manager looks after several forests in a geographical area known as a ‘beat’. They work with a range of teams to care for the forests. The role includes:
delivering forest management plans.
planning and overseeing forest management activities, such as timber harvesting and planting programmes.
ensuring the forests are managed sustainably and activities meet industry standards.
working with the recreation team to plan new facilities and events.
working with the wildlife team to deliver key conservation projects in partnership with stakeholder organisations, such as the Environment Agency, Natural England and Butterfly Conservation.
Skills and qualifications
We recommend that you gain experience and certificates where you can. This may include volunteering to gain practical knowledge, online courses in the latest research through to completing a relevant college course or apprenticeship.
You'll usually need:
2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree.
College
Ideally you need a degree or equivalent in forestry or land management. But some people may progress and gain experience and train as they work.
Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships are a great way to learn while you earn.
You could get into this job by doing a Forest Craftsperson Level 3 apprenticeship or complete the Professional Level 6 Degree apprenticeship.
Discover more about apprenticeships at Forestry England.
Salary
Starting from £25,000.
Typical hours
On average 37 hours per week.
Forestry England offers flexible working patterns where appropriate and lots of other great benefits to support a healthy work/life balance.
How you can grow with us
Your career could progress into:
- a forest planner or woodland officer.
- specialist roles such as plant health, restoration projects and woodland creation.
- senior operational management roles.
- you may wish to gain Chartered status (Chartered Forester or Chartered Arboriculturist) - an award that recognises professional competence.
Applying to work at Forestry England
If a forest manager role sounds exciting to you, check out Civil Service jobs for all our current vacancies.
Our frequently asked questions will help in your application.
