Forest Operations Apprentice

3 weeks ago

London, Greater London, United Kingdom Forestry Commission Full time

Position Overview

The East England Forest District (EEFD) is a vital area with a dedicated workforce managing approximately 35,000 hectares, extending from North Norfolk to Brighton. The apprentice positions will be situated in Thetford Forest, recognized as the largest lowland pine forest in the UK.

Thetford Forest is organized into four distinct beat teams, each overseen by a local crew consisting of a Forester, Work Supervisor, and Forest Craftspeople. These teams are further supported by Wildlife Rangers and Community/Recreation Rangers. We are excited to offer apprentice roles within Thetford Forest, allowing individuals to collaborate with experienced craftspersons and beat teams to acquire hands-on experience while participating in a structured training program.

With an annual tree planting initiative exceeding 1 million trees, Thetford & North Norfolk also engages in a thinning and clearfell harvesting program that contributes around 80,000 tonnes of timber annually to the UK wood processing sector. A Forest Resilience Programme is actively exploring adaptive management strategies in response to anticipated climate change impacts.

Significantly, a large portion of Thetford Forest (18,000 Ha) is designated for its ecological importance, featuring Special Protection Areas (SPA) to safeguard the breeding habitats of the Woodlark and Nightjar, as well as Sites of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI) acknowledging the forest's rare botanical diversity.

Role Responsibilities

The 18-month apprenticeship presents a remarkable opportunity to develop a diverse skill set while working in forest and other natural environments.

Key responsibilities of the Apprentice Forest Craftsperson include:

  • Executing forest estate management tasks such as timber measurement, fencing, planting, and habitat enhancement.
  • Assisting in timber harvesting operations, which may involve chainsaw felling and mechanical pruning.
  • Collaborating effectively within a small team and responding promptly to unforeseen tasks and requests from supervisors and managers.
  • Conducting tree inspections.
  • Potentially receiving additional training for tractor operations.

This role entails physical outdoor work in varying weather conditions within the forest setting. The position is dynamic and multifaceted, requiring teamwork, enthusiasm, and the ability to perform across various skills and disciplines.

We seek individuals who are friendly, enthusiastic, and approachable, with a readiness to engage in team discussions and interact positively with visitors to the forest.

Training and Development

As part of this apprenticeship, you will undertake the Forest Operative Level 3 training, gaining qualifications in:

  • Level 3 award in emergency first aid at work (forestry context known as +F)
  • Level 2 Principles of Safe Handling and Application of Pesticides Guidance OR Level 2 Award in the Safe Use of Pesticides
  • Level 2 Award in the Safe Application of Pesticides using Pedestrian Hand Held Equipment
  • Level 2 award in safe use of brush-cutters and strimmers
  • Level 2 award in safe use of forestry clearing saw
  • Level 2 award in chainsaw maintenance
  • Level 2 award in crosscutting timber using a chainsaw
  • Level 2 award in felling and processing trees up to 380mm

Throughout the apprenticeship, formal training sessions may require travel and overnight stays. Additionally, you will be expected to engage in revision and maintain a portfolio of your work.

To successfully complete the apprenticeship, passing a final assessment is necessary. The Forestry England training team will provide support throughout this journey. Upon successful completion, a position within Forestry England may be offered, though the specific location cannot be guaranteed.

Forestry England is dedicated to promoting equality and diversity within its workforce. The apprenticeship program is accessible to all applicants, with no minimum academic qualifications required. Eligibility for the apprenticeship will be verified as part of the application process.

Candidate Profile

Essential Criteria

  • Demonstrated ability to work outdoors and a genuine interest in forestry, conservation, or countryside management.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the capacity to function effectively as part of a team.
  • Willingness to learn new practical skills through training and collaboration with colleagues.
  • Basic computer and mobile phone proficiency.

Desirable Experience

  • Familiarity with MS Office applications, including Outlook.
  • GCSE (Grades A-C or 4 and above) or equivalent in Maths and English.
  • Possession of a Full UK Driving Licence.

Please ensure to clearly illustrate how the above criteria apply to you in your application. Failure to do so may result in your application being excluded from consideration.

Assessment Criteria

During the selection process, candidates will be evaluated on the following behaviors:

  • Team Collaboration
  • Quality Service Management
  • Efficient Delivery
  • Effective Decision Making

Technical Skills Assessment

Candidates will also be assessed on practical tasks during the interview process.

Compensation and Benefits

In addition to a competitive salary, Forestry Commission contributes towards a Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Benefits include:

  • A Civil Service pension
  • 25 days of annual leave, with an additional day for each year of service up to 5 years, plus bank holidays
  • Tailored learning and development opportunities
  • Option to buy or sell 5 days of annual leave
  • A variety of family-friendly benefits
  • Wellbeing benefits, including discounted Civil Service Healthcare and access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
  • 3 days of volunteering per year

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