Location
Coleford, Gloucestershire and Kennford, Exeter (West Forest District, covering the west and south-west of England). Other Forestry England office locations within the district may be considered.

Hours
Full Time - 37 hours per week. Normal working hours are Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 5pm with an hour lunch break; Friday 8.30am to 4.30pm with an hour lunch break. Flexible working by agreement.

Salary
£33,854 per annum

About the Role
Forestry England is passionate about growing and managing the nation’s forests sustainably for people and wildlife. As a Forest Planner, you will research, write, review and consult on Forest Plans that comply with the UK Woodland Assurance Scheme and promote forest resilience in response to climate change. Your work will consider the wider landscape context, supporting nature’s recovery and resilience at scale. You will lead stakeholder consultations and monitor plan delivery through 5 and 10 year reviews.

You will manage and interrogate Forestry England’s Geographic Information System to support plan writing and map preparation, embracing technological advances such as remote sensing to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

One of the two Forest Planner posts will also act as the district’s lead drone pilot, coordinating with approved pilots and national colleagues to implement relevant policies and practices.

The role involves travel to various office, depot, and forest locations across the district to support delivery teams, and attendance at national meetings and training events. A current driving licence is required unless alternative travel arrangements are proposed.

You will be part of the Forest Planning team led by the Operations Manager – Planning, contributing to the sustainable management of over 37,000 hectares of forests and woodlands in the West Forest District.

Experience
Relevant experience in forest planning, GIS management, stakeholder consultation, or related forestry disciplines is desirable. Experience with remote sensing or drone operations is advantageous, particularly for the lead drone pilot post.

About you
You are passionate about forestry and environmental stewardship, with strong analytical and communication skills. You are adaptable and open to new technologies, able to work both independently and collaboratively within a team. You are willing and able to travel regularly across the district and engage with a range of stakeholders.

A current driving licence is required unless alternative arrangements are agreed.

Qualifications
Relevant forestry, environmental science, or related qualifications are preferred. Professional membership or willingness to pursue professional development within forestry or environmental planning is encouraged.