Forester

Reference number171201Salary£28,678 - £30,762GradeExecutive OfficerContract typePermanentFixed TermLength of employment4 X Permanent, 1 X Fixed Term Appointment - 2 YearsBusiness areaFLS - Land ManagementType of roleOperational DeliveryWorking patternFlexible working, Full-timeNumber of posts5LocationMultiple Locations (see job description)About the jobSummaryForestry and Land Scotland (FLS) became an Agency of the Scottish Government on the 1st of April 2019. Our staff work in a broad range of roles that allow us to manage Scotland's national forests and land.It's an exciting time for Forestry in Scotland. Our organization is changing and we need people to help us during our evolution and beyond.North region covers from Fort Augustus in the south of the region, up to Borgie on the North coast. Taking in areas such as The Cairngorms National park, Glen Affric and the Isle of Skye.The region has an annual harvesting program of over 520km3 / annum, and restocking of over 1000ha/ annum along with ambitious woodland creation targets. Peatland restoration is also a major priority for the region covering land from Skye to the flow country.The region hosts major tourist destinations such as Glenmore in the Cairngorms National Park, Glen Affric NNR and the Isle of Skye.West Region balances traditional timber production with maintenance of designated habitats and protection of priority species. Visitor numbers and important customer care provision peak in the March to October period. In recent years, we have faced plant disease and invasive non-native species, the control of which is a large part of our work. This is mixed with opportunities to create new woodland and habitats including an increasing programme of peatland restoration.The Region also looks after scheduled monuments, have extensive areas of open ground habitats and manages a number of European designated sites. Activities on these sites include management for the protection of endangered species, habitats and geomorphological interests. Other significant activities include new native woodland creation, peatland restoration, restoration of Plantation on Ancient Woodland Sites (PAWS) and management of key species including red squirrel, pine marten, black grouse and a range of raptor species.As part of the Delivery Team, you will be encouraged to think laterally and work closely with others to explore options to find the best solutions.Job descriptionIn these roles within the delivery team you will deliver either high quality harvesting, or Forest management sites and contracts within the North or West Region. You will also be responsible for staff management, health and safety and adherence to contract specification across a wide variety of work.ResponsibilitiesPlan and deliver operational tasks within the beat- ensuring all work is undertaken in line with industry best practice and all relevant health and safety requirements are metApplication of FLS contract management processesFinancial budgeting, monitoring and reportingStaff managementExperienceEssentialSubstantial experience of managing / supervising harvesting or restocking within the forestry sector to a high standardStaff management experienceBudget management experienceAn ability to communicate and work effectively with a wide range of peopleCompetent in the use of IT with a good working knowledge of Microsoft applications including Excel, Word and OutlookDesirableAbility to use GIS or equivalent software, with a commitment to learn moreKnowledge of forestry and land management, with a commitment to learn moreContract/ project management experienceTechnicalEssentialFull driving LicenceDesirableA degree or diploma in a forestry related subject or countryside management, or equivalent