Forest Craftsperson

About the role

You will join the East Devon beat team, based at Staple Fitzpaine near Taunton, to support the beat forester in managing and restoring forest land. The role involves practical field work, health and safety leadership, and assisting the Wild Neroche Project Officer with ecological interventions.

Key responsibilities

• Carry out practical tasks for the Wild Neroche project, including planting, tree guard installation, fence repair and vegetation control.
• Perform high pruning, cutting back and felling of ancient and veteran trees, and manage tree safety through inspections and signage.
• Conduct LANTRA Basic Tree surveys, manage hazardous tree assessments and support arboreal contractors.
• Maintain estate infrastructure such as gates, barriers, roads, rides, rights of way and permissive paths.
• Undertake risk assessments and ensure compliance with the Forest Industry Safety Accord (FISA).
• Collect operational data for timber marketing, forest management, ecological surveys and recreation trail inspections.
• Assist with wild area projects and occasional woodland creation activities.

Required profile

• Ability to work safely in a forest environment and follow strict health‑and‑safety procedures.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills for liaising with colleagues, contractors and stakeholders.
• Willingness to undertake physical, outdoor work in varying weather conditions.

Required skills

• LANTRA Basic Tree survey certification.