Careers in Forestry and Arboriculture

In an era of increasing environmental awareness, careers in forestry and arboriculture have taken on new significance. These sectors are crucial to combating climate change, enhancing biodiversity, and maintaining the UK's green infrastructure. Whether you're looking for hands-on outdoor work or a technical and strategic profession, forestry and arboriculture offer a variety of career paths.



This guide explores the practical and professional roles within the industry, including entry-level jobs, specialist positions, and the qualifications needed. We also look at how Practical Arb, a UK-based training provider, supports aspiring professionals in taking their first steps in these vital industries.

Understanding the Sectors: Forestry vs. Arboriculture

While both deal with trees and natural environments, forestry and arboriculture differ in scope:



• Forestry involves managing large areas of woodland for timber, conservation, recreation, and carbon capture.


• Arboriculture focuses on the care, maintenance, and management of individual trees, particularly in urban and residential environments.

Both fields require a strong foundation of practical skills, environmental understanding, and health & safety awareness.

Woodland thinning operations.

Practical Careers in Forestry

1. Forestry Operative

Forestry operatives are the backbone of the forestry industry. Their responsibilities include planting trees, felling, thinning, pest control, and maintaining forest infrastructure such as paths and drainage systems.

Skills and Qualifications required:

• Chainsaw operations (e.g. City and Guilds/NPTC CS30 and CS31 qualifications).

• Spraying operations (e.g. City and Guilds/NPTC PA1and PA6 qualifications).

• Tree Identification.

• Woodland skills (e.g. crop management, drainage, path building).

2. Forest Machine Operator

Operate machinery such as harvesters and forwarders used in timber harvesting. Requires mechanical skills and safety certifications.

Skills and Qualifications required:

• Machine operations (e.g. City and Guilds/NPTC FMO qualifications for harvesters and forwarders).

• Mechanical troubleshooting.

• Environmental awareness.

  
  

3. Forest Craftsperson

Focuses on conservation tasks such as habitat restoration, path maintenance, and ecological monitoring.

Skills and Qualifications required:

• Chainsaw operations (e.g. City and Guilds/NPTC CS30 and CS31 qualifications).

• Spraying operations (e.g. City and Guilds/NPTC PA1and PA6 qualifications).

• Traditional woodland skills (e.g. coppicing, hedge laying).

• Tree identification.

Arborist using a MEWP to sectionally dismantle a tree.

Practical Careers in Arboriculture

1. Ground worker / Arboricultural Assistant

Entry-level support role in tree care teams. Tasks include tool preparation, debris management, and safety monitoring.

Skills and Qualifications required:

• Chainsaw operations (e.g. City and Guilds/NPTC CS30 and CS31 qualifications).

• Supporting climbing arborist while in the canopy.

• Maintaining site safety.

2. Climbing Arborist / Tree Surgeon

Performs pruning, felling, and tree inspection using ropes and harnesses. A physically demanding and skilled profession.

Skills and Qualifications required:

• Chainsaw operations (e.g. City and Guilds/NPTC CS30 and CS31 qualifications).

• Climbing operations (e.g. City and Guilds/NPTC CS38, CS39 and CS41 qualifications).

• Aerial tree inspections.

3. Utility Arborist

Manages tree growth near infrastructure. Requires specific safety training for working near power lines.

Skills and Qualifications required:

• Chainsaw operations (e.g. City and Guilds/NPTC CS30 and CS31 qualifications).

• Climbing operations (e.g. City and Guilds/NPTC CS38, CS39 and CS41 qualifications).

• Specific certification for working near or on utility infrastructure.

Professional and Technical Careers in Forestry and Arboriculture

For those who want to combine practical experience with planning, data analysis, or management, several professional careers offer fulfilling pathways:

1. Arboricultural Consultant

Assesses trees for safety, health, and legal compliance. Works with developers, councils, and landowners.

2. Forest Manager / Woodland Officer

Oversees forest operations, timber harvesting, and conservation planning. Works in public and private sectors.

3. Urban Forestry Officer

Manages tree stock in cities and towns. Ensures safety, health, and strategic planning of urban tree populations.

4. Ecologist / Woodland Ecologist

Assesses ecological impact of forestry operations and helps design conservation strategies.

What Training and Qualifications Do You Need?

Whether you're climbing trees or designing woodland management plans, qualifications are essential. Here’s a breakdown of the most relevant certifications:

Essential Practical Qualifications (City & Guilds/NPTC):

• CS30: Chainsaw maintenance


• CS31: Felling trees up to 380mm


• CS38: Tree climbing and aerial rescue


• CS39: Aerial tree cutting


How Practical Arb Supports Aspiring Professionals

Practical Arb is a Hampshire based training provider specialising in chainsaw and tree climbing courses, offering City & Guilds/NPTC qualifications. With over 20 years of industry experience, they provide comprehensive training tailored to real-world challenges.

Why Choose Practical Arb:

• Expert Instructors: Trainers with extensive hands-on experience in arboriculture.

• Comprehensive Courses: From beginner to advanced levels, covering essential skills and safety protocols.

• Flexible Scheduling: Courses designed to accommodate various schedules and learning paces.

• Supportive Environment: Emphasis on building confidence and competence in all trainees.

• Industry recognised qualification: City and Guilds/NPTC qualifications are not only recognised by industries in the UK, but many other countries around the world.

By enrolling in Practical Arb's courses, individuals gain the necessary skills and certifications to start their careers in forestry or arboriculture confidently.