FORESTER

Foresters work in natural and planted forests where they sustainably manage the forests, implementing fire prevention systems, and ensuring a sustainable supply of timber. This includes thinning, pruning and weed control, as well as production of seed for new forests, and the establishment and management of tree nurseries. This involves researching, planning, and implementing procedures to manage the impact of animals, fire, drought, soil erosion, pests and diseases, provisions for regeneration of the forest.

They also work closely with the agricultural sector to assist with private management of plantations and systems of plantation establishment on farmland.

Foresters can be involved in all stages of harvesting, from pre-planning, supervising operations, regulating, processing, utilisation, and marketing of forest products. They organise and control timber harvesting for sawn timber for house construction, furniture manufacture, floors and decking, plywood, particleboard, poles, posts, fuel wood, and paper pulp.

How do I become a Forester?

Certificate II – Cadet Forester Program (ASbA)

This is an Australian School-based Apprenticeship available to students in Tasmania in Years 10, 11 or 12.

This qualification reflects the job of people who provide support to forest operations in a variety of forestry contexts. It is also designed for learners involved in school-based VET traineeships and other VET in school programs.

Individuals with this qualification apply specialised skills and knowledge relevant to entry-level roles in forest operations. This includes a basic understanding of the industry and the risks involved in forest operations. They are also expected to conduct basic forest operations.

At this level, workers complete tasks under close supervision involving known routines and procedures but variable work tasks in collaboration with others.

This qualification enables specialisations in Forest Nursery Production, Silviculture, or Timber Harvesting and Haulage.

Certificate III – Forest Operations

This qualification describes the job of people who operate at a production level in a forest operation.

Individuals with this qualification apply specialised skills and knowledge relevant to operational roles in forest operations. This includes applying knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and protecting the environment, including the areas of cultural significance. They are also expected to operate equipment according to workplace procedures and conduct work tasks specific to a forest operation.

At this level, workers complete tasks under limited supervision and collaborate with others to meet productivity requirements.

This qualification enables specialisations in Forest Nursery Production, Silviculture, or Timber Harvesting and Haulage.

Certificate IV – Forest Operations

This qualification reflects the job of people who work as managers or crew leaders in forestry contractor businesses.

Individuals with this qualification apply a broad range of specialised skills and knowledge in forest operations management. This includes establishing operational plans for forestry operations and supervising teams involved in implementing operational plans in line with the requirements of a forest management organisation.

Diploma – Forest Operations

This qualification reflects the job of early-career foresters and forestry field officers with specialist roles in forest operations management and forest resource management.

Individuals with this qualification apply a broad range of advanced technical and management skills and forest knowledge to inform and contribute to forest management plans and manage forestry operations. This includes using industry-specific software, modelling and analysing forestry data and optimising forest management practice to improve production processes and wood flow outcomes.

At this level, individuals are expected to apply autonomy and judgement. They take responsibility for their own outputs at the workplace.

This qualification enables specialisations in Forest Operations Management or Forest Resource Management.