The UK government has committed to a target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, resulting in an increasing interest in both existing forestry and new woodland creation. Scottish Woodlands is at the forefront of developing opportunities to meet these targets and supporting landowners to optimise their land and deliver forestry related projects. The Graduate Development Programme offers an exciting opportunity for candidates passionate about the rural environment and economy to join our progressive teams, and to play a key role in shaping the future of forestry in the UK.

We work in a fast-paced, commercial, and challenging environment and are currently looking to recruit graduates to train, mentor, and develop to become an integral part of our succession management plan. For 2025, we have graduate openings in our forestry division of the business. During the two-year Graduate Development Programme, you will be given high quality training opportunities as well as being exposed to a variety of fantastic site locations. Therefore, successful candidates should be flexible in terms of working location. Opportunities to be placed throughout Scotland and North England.

The company is 80% owned by staff. Opportunities to acquire shares, offering a unique position within the forestry sector and promoting employee ownership. Applicants will also be given excellent personal and career development opportunities and will be part of a highly professional, motivated team.

What we look for

• Ideally minimum 2:1 Bachelor’s degree in a forestry-related discipline, or other relevant degree or qualification (geography, environmental, other land based studies will be considered)
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Strong interpersonal skills with ability to work collaboratively within a fast-paced team
• Commercial awareness
• We will encourage and support ICF membership, with a view to become chartered
• A full UK Drivers Licence is essential due to the nature of the role

What you will be doing

• ​New woodland creation projects
• ​Restocking projects
• ​Forest grant applications
• Frontline supervision of contractors
• Managing client relationships
• Field visits and surveys
• Financial planning and analysis
• Management Plans
• Site inspections
• Forest planning
• Digital mapping work

What will you get in return for your hard work and commitment

• Highly attractive and competitive graduate salary with incremental rises
• Opportunity for Equity Participation through the unique Company Share Scheme
• Bonus scheme
• Company vehicle
• Company pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Permanent health insurance
• Private healthcare
• Enhanced family friendly leave
• Excellent personal and career development opportunities

​Application process 

Applications can be made online through our Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Please note, as part of the application process, you will be required to upload a Cover Letter and CV, as well as any relevant qualification certificates.

For more information on the 2025 Scottish Woodlands Graduate Development Programme, please go the careers section of our website where you can download our Graduate Brochure.

Please note that Scottish Woodlands are unable to sponsor any candidates for our graduate, trainee and placement opportunities as these roles will not meet the Home Office eligibility criteria for sponsorship. 

​Closing Date: 2 February 2025

We are an equal opportunities employer

To apply, please click HERE.