Forestry Harvesting Managers deal with the felling of trees and their preparation for transport and processing.  They are responsible for the selection of suitable timber and planning of harvesting activities.

Working in private woodland or for Forestry Commission Scotland, they often need a wide range of skills and knowledge, including land management skills.  The Harvesting Manager will usually have to control a budget and follow a business plan developed for the sites they manage. 

They may be answerable to the Head Forester, or land agent, who oversees the forestry work in different locations.

A Forestry Harvesting Manager’s main responsibility is planning harvesting work to be carried out by staff and contractors. 

They may be required to survey and inspect trees and sites, selecting and marking up timber to be harvested, plan harvesting activities and manage output of felled timber against set income targets.

Working Conditions

Although a Harvesting Manager is a management role, it can be physically demanding. Some of the time will be spent office-based but you should still be fit and able to work outdoors in all weathers.

Harvesting Managers typically work a standard full-time week. However, the hours may vary and weekend or Bank Holiday work can be required.

Depending on the area covered, there may be a significant amount of travelling between different sites. A driving license may be required.

Next steps

As a Harvesting Manager, progression will depend upon the type of organisation that you work for. 

Harvesting Managers may become forestry consultants or move into a contracting role.

Useful links

Arboricultural Association

Chartered Foresters

Confederation of Forest Industries

Forestry Commission Scotland

My world of work

Royal Forestry Society

A Forestry Worker, also known as a Forest Craftsperson in Forestry Commission Scotland, cares for and manages woodland areas and forests. They are involved in tree establishment, protection, maintenance and timber production and also play an important part in protecting ecological and animal habitats, and enhancing the future landscape.

Duties usually involve:

• Conducting forest surveys and assessing tree volumes and density
• Carrying out tree safety inspections, marking and measuring trees to be cut down for timber production
• Doing general groundwork to clear sites and undergrowth
• Planting new trees
• Digging or installing more efficient drainage systems
• Controlling unwanted vegetation
• Cutting back shrubs and other ground cover to promote the healthy growth of young trees
• Brashing and pruning to promote healthy growth in older trees
• Using specialist tools to thin out dense wooded areas and fell trees to improve access for operations and recreation
• Harvesting trees, removing branches and cutting felled tree trunks into specific lengths
• Identifying and protecting the forest against pests, diseases and disorders, particularly on young trees
• Clearing footpaths and nature trails, and maintaining adjoining car parks and public areas.

To maintain recreational sites and enhance woodland areas for public use, Forestry Workers may be required to erect fences and gates, and install footpath signs and public information notices.

Forestry Workers may also assist in the tackling of forest fires. They are often responsible for checking and maintaining basic fire-fighting equipment located near wooded areas.

Some Forestry Workers may work with contractors specialising in one specific aspect of the work, such as harvesting or establishing and protecting new trees.

Working Conditions 

Forestry workers typically work 37 hours a week, Monday to Friday, although some overtime and weekend work may be necessary. Part-time and casual work is possible. Work can be seasonal and longer days may be necessary during peak times.

Forestry workers spend nearly all of their time working outdoors, in all weather conditions. The work can be physically challenging, with lots of lifting, climbing and walking through densely wooded areas.

A driving licence may be required.

Next steps

Gaining experience and completing training courses in order to become competent in the use of specialist equipment will enable progression to craftsperson status. 

Thereafter, promotional prospects can vary depending upon the nature of the employer. With large employers, such as Forestry Commission Scotland, it may be possible to progress to Senior Forest Worker or Works Supervisor.

In smaller organisations you may have to change location or employer to progress.

Many experienced Forestry Workers become self-employed and contract out their services.

With further training and qualifications, it may be possible to advance to Forest Officer level.

Useful links

Arboricultural Association

Chartered Foresters

Confederation of Forest Industries

Forestry Commission Scotland

My world of work

Royal Forestry Society

A Forest Ranger promotes awareness of the forest and protects and conserves the natural environment.

The role is usually within local authorities or Forestry Commission Scotland. Some large charitable organisations or commercial estates also employ forest rangers to lead in education and conservation projects. The work can be very varied and may include a mixture of practical forestry work and site management. Successful forest rangers are enthusiastic communicators and passionate about nature and conservation.

The practical work undertaken by Forest Rangers may include environmental assessments, field surveys, and managing habitats to maintain favourable conditions for wildlife. 

They may also be called upon to make sure footpaths, bridleways and other public access areas are safe and to make minor repairs to gates, fences, stiles, walls, footpaths and picnic tables.

Forest Rangers may need to organise events, activities and projects to raise awareness of environmental conservation and increase community involvement. These activities may include environmental and conservation projects, or working with school groups on education activities.

Managerial work undertaken can involve marketing and control of budgets, preparing applications for funding or assessing planning applications. Forestry Rangers may also be involved in the recruitment and supervision of staff and volunteers.

Other work may involve managing exhibitions and visitor centres, and patrolling sites to ensure the responsible enjoyment of the woodland, reduce crime and protect the public and wildlife.

A Forest Ranger can also be called on to help tackle forest fires.

Depending on the area covered, there may be a significant amount of travelling between different sites. A driving licence may be required.

Working Conditions 

Work can be physically demanding and Forest Rangers need to be prepared to work outdoors in a range of weather conditions.  

Forest Rangers typically work full-time. However, the hours may vary, and weekend or Bank Holiday work may be required.

Next steps

It may be possible to progress to higher grades within similar roles, taking on greater supervisory responsibility. However, this will vary depending upon the nature of the employer.

Progression beyond the role will tend to be into a more managerial role, which will involve less ‘hands-on’ practical work.

Useful links

Arboricultural Association

Chartered Foresters

Confederation of Forest Industries

Forestry Commission Scotland

My world of work

Royal Forestry Society

A Forestry Consultant usually works in the private sector advising clients on the selection, health, maintenance and marketing of trees and timber.  They can be brought in to advise on any aspect of forest or woodland management, conservation and timber trading. The role is varied. They must have skills and experience to manage forests and woodlands according to the wide range of objectives of the owners.

They will undertake inspections and surveys, preparing reports for their clients. These may be on individual or stands of trees or on the management of whole tracts of forest or woodland. They might make recommendations as to the work required, including the selection of species, control of wildlife (such as deer), identification of timber to be harvested and the potential markets available for harvested timber. 

Forestry Consultants will also be able to identify, and advise on the management or control of diseases affecting trees, particularly where the quality and durability of the cut timber might be reduced. 

They must also have a good working knowledge of sustainable forestry and forest conservation guidelines, such as the UK Woodland Assurance Scheme, to ensure the work they are recommending in a forest meets high standards of environmental quality and protection.

Working Conditions 

This is a highly varied career that involves both indoor and outdoor work. The outdoor work is in a range of weather conditions. Depending on the area covered, there may be a significant amount of travelling between different sites to inspect trees at different locations; therefore a full driving licence is likely to be a requirement of the job. 

Forestry Consultants typically work full-time. However, the hours may vary, and weekend, evening or Bank Holiday work can be required.

Next steps

Most people starting out in the role of Forestry Consultant will work for an established practice. Where it is possible to build up a client base there is always the option for enterprising individuals to become self-employed, establishing their own consultancy company.

Forestry consultants who have completed a level 4 qualification (or above) and worked for a number of years at a managerial level can seek to gain chartered status through the Institute of Chartered Foresters.

Useful links

Arboricultural Association

Chartered Foresters

Confederation of Forest Industries

Forestry Commission Scotland

My world of work

Royal Forestry Society

A tree surgeon is a climber who takes part in all the areas of tree work. Duties will primarily include domestic, commercial, street or park tree pruning and removals. In some situations, work duties can also include tree planting, tree hazard assessment, diagnosis, and pest control.

The tree surgeon's work really begins once they have climbed into the tree.

In addition to tree pruning, branch removal and felling, they may also undertake work such as cable bracing and inspections to assess the health of trees. Work is usually done from a rope and harness but may involve the use of mobile elevated work platforms.

Duties may also include landscape and other non-arboricultural duties such as tree and shrub planting.

Working Conditions 

Work can be physically demanding and outdoors in all weathers.

Tree surgeons typically work full-time.  However, the hours may vary and weekend or Bank Holiday work can be required. Some work for a company while many are self-employed.

Depending on the area covered, there may be a significant amount of travelling between different sites.

Next steps

With experience and training, new entrants to the arboricultural industry should progress to undertake work as a basic tree worker and they may then train as a Climber. 

Climbers may train to work from a mobile elevated work platform (MEWP) as well as being able to use a rope and harness. 

As they gain experience they might choose to take further training and assessment to be able to undertake tree bracing, tree dismantling (sectional felling), felling of large trees and various other skills.

Although the career structure will vary depending on the organisation, an experienced climber may be able to progress to the role of Team Leader.  Some workers may specialise by working in areas of tree care such as commercial or utility arboriculture.

Useful links

Arboricultural Association

Chartered Foresters

Confederation of Forest Industries

Forestry Commission Scotland

My world of work

Royal Forestry Society

An Arboricultural Surveyor could work for a local authority, a private company, or  be self-employed. Within a local authority the role may sit within the planning or parks section. This position requires a strong working knowledge of arboriculture.

Duties include:

• Providing a specialist arboricultural service
• Surveying managing and maintaining trees
• Producing site reports
• Managing trees in relation to planning applications and on construction sites
• Advising on Tree Preservation Orders and Conservation Areas.

Surveyors may also need to help with things like landscape advice and providing support to clients or other departments on large scale projects.

Working Conditions 

You must be fit and able to work outdoors in poor weather conditions and a range of terrains.

Arboricultural surveyors typically work a standard full-time week. However, the hours may vary and weekend or Bank Holiday work can be required.

Depending on the area covered, there may be a significant amount of travelling between different sites.

Next steps

Experienced Arboricultural Surveyors may be able to progress to consultancy or to become an assistant Arboricultural Officer.

Useful links

Arboricultural Association

Chartered Foresters

Confederation of Forest Industries

Forestry Commission Scotland

My world of work

Royal Forestry Society

An Arboricultural Officer job is typically at managerial level within a local authority, possibly within the planning or parks section. Arboricultural Officers have varied roles and usually deal with the general public and with the local authority tree stock. They will work on tree-related issues in planning of developments, with Tree Preservation Orders, may represent the local authority in court on tree matters and deal with enquiries from the general public about council trees.

Working Conditions 

Individuals must be able to work outdoors in varied weather conditions.

Arboricultural Officers typically work a standard full-time week. However, the hours may vary and weekend or Bank Holiday work can be required. There may be self-employed and consultancy opportunities available for well experienced arboriculturists.

Depending on the area covered, there may be a significant amount of travelling between different sites.

Next steps

Experienced Arboricultural Officers may look to progress into consultancy.

Useful links

Arboricultural Association

Chartered Foresters

Confederation of Forest Industries

Forestry Commission Scotland

My world of work

Royal Forestry Society

Stalkers have a highly skilled job, often working alone in wild and remote landscapes. Focusing on all aspects of successful wild deer management, a stalker contributes to the efficient culling of deer, for example on countryside estates, and the conservation and management of the natural habitat.

There can be a requirement to work closely with neighbouring estate stalkers to ensure an efficient, co-ordinated cull throughout the landscape.

Particularly during the stag stalking season, a stalker will take responsibility for small numbers of shooting guests. Stalkers are likely to undertake a range of other tasks including pest and predator control, maintenance or part-time shepherding. This will particularly be the case on upland red deer estates owing to the relatively short season. Tasks are largely outdoors and often undertaken in quite harsh weather conditions.

In the UK there are in excess of 14,000 active deer stalkers with the number being higher if you include those involved in recreational stalking.

Culling deer begins with shooting stags in the late summer to the end of the autumn. Red deer hinds are shot throughout the winter months. Roe deer are managed throughout the year.

Full-time employment opportunities on rural estates will often be in very remote upland locations such as the North-west Highlands of Scotland, although stalkers are employed throughout the UK on low ground estates as well as on farms and woodlands.

Working Conditions 

Shooting estates operate seven days a week at all times of the year. The intensity and timing of work is related to the deer-stalking season. Therefore stalkers on estates usually work flexible hours based around the jobs that need completing at different times of the year.

In larger estates, they are likely to work on a rota system with other members of staff including early mornings, evenings and weekends. Roe buck stalking for example involves particularly anti-social hours in the late evening and again from 3.30am in the morning. There may be opportunities for both full-time and part-time working.

The work is an essential part of land management and conservation, benefiting moorland, woodland, farmland and other habitats. Stalkers need to be comfortable working alone in remote locations. Most of their working time is spent outdoors in all weather conditions. The work itself is active and physical, demanding patience, perseverance and skill over long hours.

Stalkers combine excellent local knowledge, the skills of an experienced hill walker with a deep understanding of the deer. A full driving licence is usually needed as are a Shotgun Certificate and a Firearms Certificate.

Next steps

If you are conscientious, willing to turn up on time and at weekends and show yourself to be a committed employee, there may be an opportunity for promotion to a more senior position, especially if you work for one of the bigger Estates. 

If you are working as a stalker with a smaller organisation, you may have to move to find a promoted position such as Head Stalker. This position involves managing all aspects of the deer programme including weapon safety, deer shooting, habitat conservation, resources, people and security. 

Useful links

British Association for Shooting and Conservation

Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust

Institute of Fisheries Management

My world of work

Scottish Gamekeepers Association

Scottish Land and Estates

Gamekeepers work outdoors either alone or as part of a team, focusing on all aspects of gamekeeping and wildlife management. They contribute to estate game and habitat management planning; maintain game habitats and carry out other wildlife management activities including pest control as well as general conservation and land management.

Gamekeepers provide leadership and general support and administration of all support activities for shoot days. On larger rural estates or shoots, underkeepers may work to support the headkeeper who oversees the entire gamebird team.

In the UK there are around 5000 full-time gamekeepers. Gamekeeper job opportunities occur on rural estates and on smaller shoots, often in uplands such as the North-west Highlands as well as more lowland regions such as the Borders and Perthshire.

Working Conditions

Shooting estates operate seven days a week and at all times of the year. The intensity and timing of work is related to the nature of the operation on the ground and the cycle of the seasons.

Gamekeepers usually work flexible hours based around the jobs that need completing at different times of the year. In larger estates they are likely to work on a rota system with other members of staff. This will include early mornings, evenings and weekends. There may be opportunities for both full-time and part-time working.

You need to be comfortable working independently or in small groups in remote countryside locations.  Most working time is spent outdoors in all weather conditions.

The work itself is active and demanding over long hours, often requiring perseverance, patience and physical fitness. Gamekeepers work with a variety of animals.

A full driving licence is usually desirable, along with Shotgun Certificate or Firearms Certificate.

Next steps

If you are dedicated, willing to turn up on time and at weekends and show yourself to be a committed employee, there may be an opportunity for promotion to a more senior position if you work for one of the larger estate businesses.

If you work within a small business, you may have to move companies to get a job as a Head Gamekeeper.

Useful links

British Association for Shooting and Conservation

Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust

Institute of Fisheries Management

My world of work

Scottish Gamekeepers Association

Scottish Land and Estates

Estate managers are employed by estate owners to manage their trading businesses and let properties on the estate, ensuring the estate generates a profit. The businesses normally include farming (including let farms), forestry, renewable energy and tourism.

This important role involves significant responsibility, management skills and experience. The modern estate manager is likely to have stewardship of diversified businesses so must have confidence and experience managing a group of enterprises, preparing budgets and delivering plans.

The estate manager deals with property development, letting and lease negotiation and ensures the maintenance of buildings, agricultural land, woodlands, drainage and roads on the estate. In addition they deal with paperwork, including farm tax, insurance, grants, subsidies and compliance with law and regulation including health and safety.

The estate manager keeps up-to-date with changes in agricultural regulations and environmental and conservation planning, local planning activity and public access issues. They are responsible for liaison with local authority services and for community relations and engagement and for the recruitment, training and performance management of estate staff.

This skilled leadership position often involves work as part of a wider management team supervising all aspects of the business and sporting side of an estate’s operation. The estate manager fulfils a key role in maximising the efficiency of all business activity on the estate as well as ensuring the smooth running of countryside management processes occurring on estate land.

Estate managers are employed widely throughout the UK on estates with many senior professionals working as Chief Executive Officers for larger business groupings or with land agency firms.

They undertake an essential land management role that benefits the rural landscape and greatly assists the economic development of the countryside.

Many will hold a university degree, often in a related field such as land economy or business management. Many will have subsequently qualified as a chartered surveyor.

Working Conditions

Estates operate seven days a week throughout the year. The intensity and timing of work is related to the nature of the estate and the tasks required to be undertaken. For example, estates where the predominant activity is agricultural, will follow the growing seasons whereas sporting or tourism estates revolve around seasons related to the game or attraction present on the estate.

Many estates have a number of land-based functions and consequently an estate manager combines many capabilities and must be hard-working, experienced and adaptable.  Hours do vary according to the time of year and may involve some evening and weekend activity as well as time spent outdoors in all weather conditions.

An estate manager may work for a major organisation owning large areas of land or for an individual landowner. Agricultural surveying companies also operate widely and employ estate managers/land agents to oversee the work on estates.  The work is predominantly office based, often situated within the estate office but a good deal of time may be spent travelling around the estate, supervising and monitoring the work. A full driving licence is essential.

On shooting estates the manager may have a background interest in shooting and game conservancy and would be expected to have a Shotgun or Firearms Certificate. Continuing professional development is essential both to comply with professional accreditation and to maintain knowledge in an ever changing and complex operating environment.

Next steps

An estate manager qualified as a chartered surveyor may progress faster and a willingness to move around the country to gain experience may also assist career progression. In time, it is possible to take on a job managing a number of estates.

With experience and appropriate qualifications some estate managers move into advisory work, for example with a relevant government department.

Useful links

British Association for Shooting and Conservation

Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust

Institute of Fisheries Management

My world of work

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)

Scottish Land and Estates