Graduate Development Programme 2026
Scottish Woodlands Ltd is a leading forestry management company with a long tradition of serving forest owners and investors in Scotland and the rest of the UK. We provide a comprehensive range of forest, estate and land-related services underpinned by our in-depth market experience, knowledge base and commitment to quality. The business is largely employee owned, and this encourages a dedication and commitment to the highest standards of professionalism and customer focus. Our aim is to understand each client’s specific objectives and then to provide a service which is both flexible and personal.
Are you a talented individual with drive, enthusiasm and ambition, with a passion for the outdoors and are ready to grow a sustainable career? If so, we are excited to hear from you for our 2026 Graduate Development Programme.
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 2026, we have graduate openings in both our Forestry and Harvesting 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.
What will you 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 we look for:
Ideally minimum 2.1 Bachelors 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.
Benefits package
In return, Scottish Woodlands offers an attractive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience. This includes company vehicle, pension scheme, life assurance, permanent health insurance, private healthcare and the opportunity for share equity participation. The company has a unique structure and is 80% owned by staff. Applicants also have excellent personal and career development opportunities open to them and will be part of a highly professional and motivated team. For more information on working with Scottish Woodlands or for details of information gathered during our recruitment process, please see our Job Applicant Privacy Notice.
Application process
All applications should be made online through our applicant tracking system. Please note, as part of the application process, you will be required to upload your CV, cover letter and any relevant qualification certificates.
If you have any questions or queries relating to the job role or our application process, please contact the HR Team email: hr@scottishwoodlands.co.uk.
We are an equal opportunities employer