Scottish Forestry is seeking individuals with a practical mindset and a professional approach to join the team as Assistant Woodland Officers.

This role involves working with Woodland Officers in the delivery of grants and regulatory functions, providing technical guidance to woodland managers and landowners, and contributing to the implementation of sustainable forest management practices. Responsibilities include both fieldwork and office-based tasks, such as assessing and processing applications. You’ll also be dealing with stakeholders, agents and landowners to help them develop forest management and new woodland creation plans. At times, you’ll need to help manage different views on priorities and shape a successful outcome around the type of trees to be planted or the area to be felled. You’ll need a full driving licence for these positions as the roles involve site visits on your own or with others.

A structured training programme is in place to ensure new recruits acquire the necessary competencies for the role. Applicants should have a working knowledge of land or forest management and an understanding of the rural sector. It’s important that you understand how forests are managed sustainably and the way in which forests and woods contribute to the rural economy through job creation, tourism and the supply of timber and forest products. The position offers a combination of office, home-based, and outdoor work.

Current vacancies are available in our Dingwall office, and Hamilton office. Applications may also be considered for future roles in Perth, Dumfries, Huntly, and other locations across Scotland. We will look to identify potential reserve candidates through this recruitment exercise.

Please review the Job Description for more information on this role.

To apply, please complete the online application form.

Where a vacancy attracts a higher number of applications, only ‘Behaviour 1 – lead criteria’ will be assessed at sift stage.

You can view our Privacy Notice on our website at https://www.forestry.gov.scot/privacy-notice

Closing date: 9 August 2026.