Assistant Forest Ranger

The Heart of England Forest is an exciting and ambitious charity. We are helping to reverse centuries of woodland decline by creating and conserving a huge broadleaf forest for the benefit of the environment, wildlife and people. A place of enduring natural beauty, protected and secured for generations to come.

Our work creating biodiverse habitats that support not just wildlife, but human life, will give us all the best chance of adapting to our changing climate.

About the role

You’ll be part of something unique, helping to grow and shape one of England’s largest new woodlands and a diverse range of habitats. The Forest is a home to many rare and threatened species, such as brown hairstreak and purple emperor butterflies, as well as Red List bird species such as skylark and woodcock.

You’ll join our friendly and dedicated forestry team who are responsible for the management of our new woodland, and our mature and ancient woodland. You’ll be mainly focused in one large area of the Forest but could also work elsewhere across the estate as required. The winter months will be predominantly focused on tree planting where you will create new woodland within the Heart of England Forest. This role is ideal for a practical person wishing to further develop their land-based forestry and conservation skills.

In this role you will work alongside the wider staff team, volunteers, corporate supporters and visitors to promote the charity and achieve our vision of a 30,000-acre broadleaf forest. If you enjoy working outdoors in all weathers, engaging with people and are passionate about woodland conservation, we would love to hear from you.

The Heart of England Forest is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. Applicants must be willing to undergo protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS disclosure.

What do we offer?

• Living Wage Foundation accredited employer
• 28 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Contributory company pension with 4.5% employer contribution
• Health Cash Plan – get cash back on opticians, dentists and more!
• Group Income Protection Scheme – to support you if you get sick
• Employee Assistance Programme – financial, physical and mental wellbeing support
• Access to exclusive discounts from thousands of retailers
• Life Assurance at four times your basic salary

Our commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The Heart of England Forest is committed to encouraging equity, diversity and inclusion amongst our current and future workforce. We are a Disability Confident Employer and part of The Race Report, driving diversity in the environment sector. We want our workforce to be truly representative of all sections of society and welcome applications from all qualified candidates.

Closing date: Sunday 8th March 2026 – midnight