National Trust

Forester - Commercial Forestry Ops x 2

Location: Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards, BT22 2AD

Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract until 28-02-2025

Reference/IRC: IRC134459

Closing Date: 5th March

Salary: £21684

Summary

Are you someone that has begun their forestry and woodland management career that’s looking to further your practical delivery experience and/or looking for something to focus on and apply themselves to delivering the recovery and a long-term nature led approach to woodland management?

Mount Stewart is a 400ha landscaped demesne of which two thirds is woodland in various forms and conditions. We are continuing a journey to bring our woodlands into favourable condition, both in biodiversity and climate resilience. All of this is set within the context of a historic walled estate with various priority species such as Red Squirrel and Pine Martin and recovering diverse plant, invertebrate & bird species populations.

These are practical delivery roles with elements of planning and development of management plans alongside property team.

What it's like to work here

You'll be joining a small team of staff and volunteers that over the past seven years have been laying the groundwork to understand & evaluate Mount Stewarts habitat conditions, access and opportunities. Our vision for the demesne is that of a rich and diverse working landscape that is both nature friendly and embodies progressive regenerative agriculture, agroforestry and accredited woodland management.

What you'll be doing

Working as a team, you will be delivering the short and medium-term actions of the properties woodland management plan from glade creation, thinning, crop management, supplementary planting & care, woodland creation and invasive species management.

The role will also be involved in Tree Safety Management requirements and working in conjunction with the Ranger team in delivering biodiversity led silvicultural practices to shape the future condition and resilience of our woodlands.

Who we're looking for

To be successful in this role you should be able to demonstrate (See also the attached Role profile)

• Knowledge & evidence of silvicultural practices in broadleaf, conifer & mixed woodland
• Operational risk management and compliance
• Accredited competency in forestry machinery including safe forestry operations, [Chainsaw Felling 380mm+, Tractor + Front loader]. Experience with powered winch, assisted felling + Forwarder is favourable.
• Good Tree and plant species identification. Knowledge of woodland fauna & sub-habitats favourable
• Evidence of working with others including stakeholders, contractors and volunteers
• Experience with GIS

Apply here

Closing Date: 05/03/2023 Location: Mount Stewart, Portaferry Road, Newtownards, BT22 2AD