Forest Operations Technical Lead

The Heart of England Forest Ltd; England; On-site; GBP 30,000 - GBP 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A nonprofit environmental organization in the UK is seeking a passionate Forest Operations Technical Lead to oversee woodland creation and management efforts. The ideal candidate should possess a degree in Forestry Management, proven experience in practical forestry, and strong knowledge of the UK Forestry Standard. Responsibilities include managing contractors, leading tree nursery operations, and ensuring health and safety compliance. This role promises the opportunity to make a lasting impact in forest management.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in woodland creation and management.
• Strong knowledge of native woodland management.
• Contract and health & safety management experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversee delivery of woodland creation and management programmes.
• Manage contractors ensuring quality and safety.
• Champion health and safety across operations.

Skills

Practical forestry experience

Knowledge of UK Forestry Standard

GIS competence

Education

Degree or diploma in Forestry Management or related field

Job description

We’re looking for a passionate and experienced Forest Operations Technical Lead to help us deliver our vision.

Hours:

37.5 per week – Monday to Friday 08.00 to 17.00, with occasional evening and weekend work.

Location:

Colletts Farm Office, Dorsington, Warwickshire, CV37 8AU

Saturday 31st January - midnight

Interview date:

TBC

About the role

As our Forest Operations Technical Lead, you’ll be at the heart of our woodland creation and management efforts. Reporting to our Director of Forest Operations, you’ll oversee operational programmes, ensure best-practice forestry standards, and lead on health and safety compliance. From managing contractors and supporting our forestry teams to guiding our tree nursery operations, this is a role where your expertise will make a lasting impact.

What You’ll Do

• Plan and oversee delivery of woodland creation, management, wildlife enhancement, and tree nursery programmes.
• Manage contractors from tendering to completion, ensuring quality, cost, and safety standards.
• Provide technical input for woodland planning and use GIS for mapping and surveys.
• Lead the Tree Nursery team, ensuring compliance and efficient stock distribution.
• Champion health and safety across all operations, aligning with FISA guidance.

What We’re Looking For

• Degree or diploma (or equivalent) in Forestry Management, Woodland Ecology, or a related subject
• Proven experience in practical forestry and woodland creation.
• Strong knowledge of the UK Forestry Standard and native woodland management.
• Contract and health & safety management experience.
• GIS competence and experience
• Professional membership of ICF (or willingness to achieve).
• Experience in tree nursery operations.

The Heart of England Forest is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Applicants must be willing to undergo protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and a DBS disclosure.

To apply for this role please submit your CV and answers to the application questions (as a word or PDF document) to [e-mail]