LoginPage 2: Roles within the organisation
A job role is made up of the tasks and responsibilities a person takes on at work. The Forestry Commission needs a wide range of skills and abilities to fulfil its variety of roles. People can join at different entry levels. There are different levels of responsibility within the organisation.
Murray Livingstone recently started a two-year apprenticeship with the Forestry Commission. Murray works in the West Argyll Forest District as a forest craftsperson, harvesting trees for timber. His initial training involved learning about different types of machines and health and safety on the forest site. This is a first line job which one day could go on to a middle management post as a senior Forester.
Julie McMorran is a civil engineer. Some of her projects involve building new roads and bridges for timber lorries to get in and out of forestry areas. Alternatively, she might create concepts, and design and test models for footbridges, walkways or towers. These form part of the Forestry Commission's recreational work for walkers, cyclists or even theatre events.
At a higher level within the organisation, Gordon Donaldson is a Forest District Manager. His work includes managing the restoration of forest land at Loch Katrine in Scotland. This involves removing non-native plants and re-establishing farming of highland cattle in the area.
All employees working with the Forestry Commission receive good rates of pay, which can rise steadily with greater responsibility. For example, a Senior Project Engineer is currently paid up to £41,000 per year. Other benefits include a company car.
The Forestry Commission promotes employees from within the organisation. Whether employees join with qualifications from school, college or from university, they have the opportunity of a long-term career path. The Forestry Commission benefits by keeping its trained staff, which is less costly than recruiting new ones.
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