Forest officers are responsible for planning and directing activities that develop and protect forest environments. They are sometimes known as foresters or woodland managers.
Along with overseeing the ecological conservation, timber production, and educational and recreational use of forests, they manage the commercial side of forests to make sure they are economically viable.
Forest officers plan annual forestry work programmes, supervising the daily activities of forest workers who carry out the practical work. The commercial aspects of their job may involve:
- advising woodland owners on good forestry practice
- planning programmes for planting and harvesting trees
- advising on forestry grants and forest certification
- valuing and purchasing woodland
- advising on planting and suitable tree species
- managing the planting, harvesting, marketing and sale of timber
- making sure that health and safety regulations and procedures are followed
- negotiating contract terms and appointing forest worker sub-contractors
- monitoring budgets and preparing financial forecasts.
Some forest workers may specialise in a particular role, for example, harvesting, marketing or the sale of timber.
As part of their job to protect and restore woodland areas, including wildlife and natural habitats, forest officers may take responsibility for:
- site surveys, as well as anticipating future ecological developments
- ensuring there is no illegal felling of trees
- identifying and addressing potentially harmful pests and diseases
- the impact of forests on nearby environments, such as water supplies
- recreational planning to ensure access to woodlands and forests for people of all abilities.
Forest officers may supervise a team of forestry workers. They are responsible for co-ordinating resources, training and communications with staff. They are also likely to liaise with a range of other people and organisations such as neighbouring landowners, timber merchants, local authorities, local and national charities, members of the public and professionals such as landscape architects, biologists and engineers.
Hours and environment
Most forest officers work between 37 and 42 hours a week. They may have to work overtime on occasion, including some evenings and weekends. Some forest officers may have to be on call. Part-time, contract work and self-employment are possible.
Forest officers combine office work with inspecting woodland areas on foot, in all weather conditions.
Some jobs are in remote areas. Local travel is likely, so a driving licence is useful. Forest officers may occasionally be required to stay away from home. Overseas work is possible with some large, multinational employers.
The work may not be suitable for people with hay fever.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- Starting salaries may be in the range of €18,500 to €23,000 a year.
- An experienced forest officer may earn around €37,500 a year.
- A senior Forestry Board forest officer may earn around €45,000 or more.
Salaries in the private sector vary widely. Some private estate jobs include accommodation and transportation.
Skills and personal qualities
A forest officer needs:
- excellent leadership and communication skills
- networking and social skills, including tact and diplomacy
- confidence to lead negotiations
- good listening skills
- an awareness of environmental issues
- good research and analytical ability
- a practical, creative, resourceful and flexible approach
- to be capable of planning and organising multiple assignments
- to be confident managing long-term projects as well as short-term tactical initiatives
- good report writing skills
- good IT knowledge and numeracy skills.
Interests
It is important to:
- have an interest in ecology and the natural environment and delivering the benefits of these to members of the public
- enjoy working with people
- like working outdoors.
Entry routes
Most direct entrants to forest management jobs have a degree or other forestry qualification. Relevant degree subjects include forestry, land or estate management, horticulture, environmental science, geography, ecology, business studies and marketing.
Useful Links:
The Society of Irish Foresters
Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine -Forestry Sevice
Institute of Chartered Foresters