Forestry Assistant

Forestry Assistant

Petersfield Full-Time 24000 - 36000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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Coombes Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support forestry operations, including timber harvesting and site management.
  • Company: Join COOMBES UK, a leading family-run Arboricultural and Forestry Contractor with over 20 years of expertise.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, company vehicle, annual bonuses, training opportunities, and social events.
  • Why this job: Be part of exciting projects in woodland management while working outdoors and making a real impact.
  • Qualifications: Experience in forestry, ability to read maps, chainsaw tickets, and a full UK driving license required.
  • Other info: We value diversity and encourage all backgrounds to apply, even if you don't meet every qualification.

The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.

As our Forestry Assistant, you will support colleagues with all aspects of forestry works, including timber harvesting operations, roading, reinstatement works and establishment.

You will be responsible for:

  • Walking grounds ahead of operations to establish layout, constraints and features highlighting specific issues and opportunities as appropriate/required
  • Assisting low loader moves and the logistics of coordinating machinery
  • Assisting Operators with site management duties (moving signs, checking and recording specifications) reporting any issues promptly
  • Monitoring and coordinating timber stocks and cross-checking timber deliveries
  • Acting as a Banksman - directing machinery to always ensure the safety of the public and colleagues
  • Delivering parts, consumables and paperwork to/from site, ensuring the location is maintained to highest standards
  • Liaising with hauliers to co-ordinate timber despatch
  • Undertaking light chainsaw work and other ad hoc duties as required to support the wider team

To be successful as our Forestry Assistant, we would ideally like you to have the following skills/experience:

  • Experience within the Forestry sector/industry
  • Ability to read and interpret maps, including GPS/GIS
  • Experience of planning logistics within set timescales
  • Relevant chainsaw tickets
  • Strong mechanical skills (general repairs, fitting parts on machinery, etc.)
  • Flexibility in your approach to work and problem-solving skills

As this is a multi-site role, a full, UK driving license is essential. The role can be physically demanding and involve working at height. As you will be working outdoors, you must be happy working in all the British weather has to offer.

What can you expect from us?

  • Competitive basic salary (reviewed annually)
  • Company vehicle & fuel card
  • Annual bonus (based on company performance)
  • Company pension scheme
  • Training opportunities and support with personal/professional development
  • Employee Assistance Programme – to support mental/physical health and provide legal/financial advice if required
  • Access to online GP service for you/your family 24/7
  • Rewards & discounts for retail/leisure & more
  • Regular social events like our Summer Family Day & The COOMBESmas (Christmas) party
  • Length of service awards to celebrate significant milestones
  • Opportunities to support COOMBES Social Value objectives (community volunteering/fundraising, etc.)

COOMBES UK are a leading Arboricultural and Forestry Contractor, with over 20 years’ experience and expertise in the Forestry sector. We have forged a strong industry reputation, and we believe we have an unrivalled skill set and peerless knowledge of Forestry work at all levels.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion:

We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and provide equal opportunities, whilst ensuring that all employees and applicants are treated fairly and with respect. Even if you don't meet all the qualifications or have all the experience listed, we still encourage you to apply. You may just be the ideal candidate for this role, or suitable for future vacancies. We are always keen to speak with talented individuals with an interest in joining us here at COOMBES and look forward to hearing from you soon.

Agency Notice: We do not accept unsolicited CVs and will not be responsible for any fees relating to this. Please contact the Recruitment Team for further information.

Coombes Group

Contact Detail:

Coombes Group Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Forestry Assistant

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific forestry operations mentioned in the job description. Understanding timber harvesting, roading, and reinstatement works will help you speak confidently about your knowledge during any interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the forestry sector. Attend local forestry events or join online forums to connect with others in the industry. This can lead to valuable insights and potential referrals for the role.

✨Tip Number 3

Gain hands-on experience with chainsaw operations if you haven't already. Having relevant chainsaw tickets is crucial, so consider taking a course to boost your qualifications and demonstrate your commitment to safety and skill.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your logistical planning skills. Think of examples where you've successfully coordinated tasks under time constraints, as this is a key aspect of the Forestry Assistant role that you’ll want to highlight.

We think you need these skills to ace Forestry Assistant

Experience in the Forestry sector
Ability to read and interpret maps
GPS/GIS proficiency
Logistics planning skills
Relevant chainsaw tickets
Strong mechanical skills
Problem-solving skills
Flexibility in work approach
Communication skills
Safety awareness as a Banksman
Physical fitness for outdoor work
Full UK driving license

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in the forestry sector. Include any specific skills such as chainsaw operation, logistics planning, and mechanical skills that align with the job description.

Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for forestry and your understanding of the role. Mention how your previous experiences have prepared you for the responsibilities listed in the job description.

Highlight Relevant Qualifications: If you have any relevant qualifications, such as chainsaw tickets or experience with GPS/GIS, make sure to mention these prominently in your application. This will demonstrate your suitability for the role.

Show Enthusiasm for Outdoor Work: Since the role involves working outdoors in various weather conditions, express your enthusiasm for this aspect in your application. Highlight any previous outdoor work experience to reinforce your readiness for the physical demands of the job.

How to prepare for a job interview at Coombes Group

✨Know Your Forestry Basics

Brush up on your knowledge of forestry operations, including timber harvesting and site management. Be prepared to discuss your experience in the sector and how it relates to the role.

✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills

Think of examples where you've had to solve logistical challenges or manage site issues. Highlight your flexibility and ability to adapt to changing conditions, especially in outdoor settings.

✨Showcase Your Technical Skills

Be ready to talk about your mechanical skills and any relevant chainsaw tickets you hold. If you have experience with GPS/GIS, mention it, as this is crucial for the role.

✨Emphasise Safety Awareness

As a Banksman, safety is paramount. Prepare to discuss how you ensure safety on-site, both for yourself and your colleagues. Share any past experiences where safety protocols were critical.

Forestry Assistant
Coombes Group
Location: Petersfield
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