Knowledge, skills and attributes

• aptitude for science
• initiative
• interested in environmental issues
• good communication skills
• enjoy outdoor activities.

Duties and Tasks

Foresters may perform the following tasks:

• manage forest resources by protecting and regenerating forests and promoting effective growth
• establish plantations of native and introduced timber species
• plan and implement a system of fire prevention, detection and suppression
• observe the effects of environmental factors on the growth and health of plants
• measure and record tree volume and growth, as well as changes in the forest's timber and other resources
• estimate the sustainable supply of timber and associated forest products
• plan and implement the growing and harvesting of native and plantation forests
• protect wildlife habitats and forest streams
• develop and control the use of recreational facilities
• undertake landscape management, which may involve manual and satellite mapping, aerial photo interpretation and field measurements
• advise governments, industry and landholders on forestry, and plan and conduct educational programs on the care and value of trees and forests
• conduct research on various aspects of forestry
• supervise and train technical, clerical and field staff and coordinate their work.

Working conditions

Foresters spend a lot of time working outdoors, in most weather conditions, though they occasionally work in offices. Foresters work both indoors and outdoors, often in isolated bush areas. They will generally be required to drive through forests, over uneven terrain and unsealed roads, often in 4 wheel-drive vehicles. Most foresters start work early in the morning, usually working a standard 40-hour week, although weekend work may occasionally be required.

Tools and technologies

Foresters use a number of specialised tools when surveying trees, including angle gauges (to measure tree density in an area), clinometers (to measure a tree's height) and increment borers (to extract core sample from the trunk to calculate age). They also use infrared, satellite and aerial photography to measure and map the growth of a forest or plantation. Paint guns are used to mark trees for harvesting, property boundaries and the location of underground cables and pipes in preparation for harvesting operations. In some instances, particularly when harvesting is taking place, foresters may be required to wear hard hats, high-visibility clothing and safety boots.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a forester you usually need to complete a degree in forest science and management, or a science degree with a major in forestry.

Forest Managers manage the production activities of forestry operations.

ANZSCO ID: 133511

Specialisations: Harvest Manager (Forestry), Operations Manager (Forestry),

Knowledge, skills and attributes  

• Able to clearly define role expectations, monitor performance, provide timely and constructive feedback and facilitate employee development
• Able to analyse issues related to resource availability and develop organisational response.
• Able to prepare detailed reports, strategies and business cases
• Able to develop long-term plan across a range of business areas
• Able understand a broad range of business needs and risks
• Able to liaise with high level government and other stakeholders regarding complex issue
• An appropriate degree in Forest Science or equivalent
• Current drivers licence

Duties and Tasks

• Determines, implements and monitors production strategies, policies and plans.
• Plans details of production activities in terms of output, quality, quantity, cost, time available and labour requirements.
• Controls the operation of production plant and quality procedures through the planning of maintenance, designation of operating hours, and supply of parts and tools.
• Monitors production output and costs, adjusting the processes and resources to minimise costs.
• Informs other managers about production matters.
• Oversees acquisition and installation of new plant and equipment.
• Directs research into production methods, recommending and implementing appropriate initiatives.
• Controls preparation of production records and reports.
• Co-ordinates the implementation of occupational health and safety requirements.
• Directs staff activities and monitors their performance.

Education and training/entrance requirements

You can work as a Forest Manager with a degree in Forest Science or equivalent. VET (Vocational Education and Training) and university are both common study pathways for Forest Managers.

Forest technical officers are responsible for many of the forestry operations involved in the planting, management and harvesting of trees. Forest technical officers may be involved in forest operations, forest assessment and planning, or forest research. Those working in private industry may supervise logging activities.

ANZSCO ID: 8413

Alternative names: Forest Technician

Specialisations: Forest technical officers may be involved in forest operations, forest assessment and planning, or forest research. Those working in private industry may supervise logging activities.

Duties and Tasks

Forest technical officers may perform the following tasks:

• supervise forest establishment and maintenance work such as fencing, planting, nursery work, weed control and pruning; and protection work involving controlled burning, fire spotting and firefighting
• carry out or supervise seed harvesting, propagation or cultivation of young trees
• select trees for felling and supervise logging operations to ensure compliance with forest policies and programs
• supervise the use of herbicides and insecticides to implement pest, weed and disease control
• set up or assist with field trials associated with research projects and forest growth studies
• enforce fire prevention regulations
• supervise the construction and maintenance of forest access roads
• issue licences and permits for recreation and for the collection of some forest products
• carry out investigations and aid in the prosecution of offenders
• write reports and undertake other clerical work
• supervise fieldworkers.
  

Working conditions

Forest technical officers usually work in country areas, sometimes in isolated bush locations. They work irregular hours during emergencies such as bushfires. Those in administrative or research positions are usually based in larger centres.

Education and training/entrance requirements

You can work as a forest technical officer without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications.

You may like to consider a VOC qualification in forest growing and management, environmental monitoring and technology or environmental management. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.
You can also become a forest technical officer through an apprenticeship or traineeship in Forest Growing and Management.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Alternatively, you can become a forest technical officer by completing a degree in forest sciences or forest science and management at university. You may also consider a degree in a related area, such as biodiversity and conservation, environmental management or environmental science. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, chemistry, physics and biology are normally required.