Apprentice Forestry and Estate Maintenance Operative

Raby Estates; Tees Valley; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 16,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

33 days holiday

Pension scheme 7.7% employer

Group Life Insurance

Cycle to Work Scheme

Health Cash Plan

Employee Assistance Programme

Buy/Sell Holiday Scheme

Free on-site parking

Discounts at estate outlets

Job summary

Raby Estates in the Tees Valley area is seeking an Apprentice Forestry and Estate Maintenance Operative. This full-time apprenticeship combines practical outdoor work with formal training at East Durham College, 1 day per week, to develop forestry and land management skills on the historic Raby Estate.

You will join the Estate Team to help maintain woodlands, trees, and estate infrastructure, while learning safe, professional practices and contributing to biodiversity and conservation goals

Qualifications

• A genuine interest in forestry, tree work, countryside management and rural estate maintenance.
• A practical, hands‑on approach to work.
• Enthusiasm and capacity to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn.
• Good organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow instructions and work safely.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent).
• Previous experience of agricultural, forestry, landscaping or conservation work.

Responsibilities

• Tree planting and woodland establishment.
• Tree felling and woodland management operations.
• Assisting with arboricultural work and management of individual trees.
• Fencing installation, repairs and maintenance.
• Upkeep of estate infrastructure including stone walls, tracks and paths.
• Parkland maintenance and habitat creation projects.
• Tractor and trailer operations.
• Safe use and maintenance of tools, machinery and equipment.
• Supporting wider estate maintenance activities as required.
• Following health and safety procedures and industry best practice at all times.

Skills

Interest in forestry and countryside

Hands-on practical

Communication and teamwork

Willingness to learn

Education

GCSE Maths and English (4/C or above)

Full UK Driving Licence

Tools

Basic mechanical knowledge

Job description

Apprentice Forestry and Estate Maintenance Operative

Job Title:Apprentice Forestry and Estate Maintenance Operative

Reports to:Head Forester/Assistant Head Forester

Hours:Full Time - Permanent

Rate of Pay:Apprentice Rates of Pay

Job Ref:VA246-2026

About Raby

Raby is thriving, family-run estate under the stewardship of the Vane family, with a rich heritage and a forward-looking vision. Steeped in history, Raby Castle is surrounded by over 200 acres of beautiful parkland in County Durham, Raby has been home to generations of the Vane family and remains a vibrant destination offering tourism, hospitality, and events throughout the year.

In addition to Raby Castle and its grounds, the estate also includes High Force Waterfall, one of England’s most spectacular natural attractions, and the High Force Hotel, which offers accommodation and dining in the heart of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The estate comprises extensive landholdings across County Durham and Shropshire, with a focus on sustainable land management and stewardship of the countryside.

About the Role

This apprenticeship provides an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic and practical individual to start a career in forestry and estate management.

Working alongside experienced members of the Estate Team, the Apprentice Forestry & Estate Maintenance Operative will gain hands‑on experience across a broad range of forestry, countryside management and estate maintenance activities. The successful candidate will develop practical skills, industry knowledge and professional qualifications while contributing to the ongoing care and improvement of the estate whilst also attending East Durham College 1 day a week.

Raby Estate is committed to the responsible management of its woodlands, landscapes and rural infrastructure.

The Estate Team plays a vital role in:

• Maintaining healthy and productive woodlands
• Maintaining individual trees across Raby Park and the wider Estate
• Supporting biodiversity and conservation objectives
• Maintaining estate infrastructure to a high standard
• Delivering sustainable land management practices
• Protecting and enhancing the estate for future generations

This apprenticeship is an important part of delivering that vision while developing the next generation of land-based professionals.

What You Will Be Doing

The role will involve a wide variety of practical outdoor work, including:

• Tree planting and woodland establishment
• Tree felling and woodland management operations
• Assisting with arboricultural work and management of individual trees
• Fencing installation, repairs and maintenance
• Upkeep of estate infrastructure including stone walls, tracks and paths
• Parkland maintenance & habitat creation projects
• Tractor and trailer operations
• Safe use and maintenance of tools, machinery and equipment
• Supporting wider estate maintenance activities as required
• Following health and safety procedures and industry best practice at all times

Level of Responsibility

The Apprentice Forestry & Estate Maintenance Operative will be responsible for:

• Supporting the Forestry and Estate Team with day-to-day operational activities
• Completing assigned tasks safely and to a high standard of workmanship
• Undertaking apprenticeship training and coursework to the required standard and timescale
• Demonstrating a willingness to learn and develop practical skills
• Contributing positively to the team and wider estate objectives

Skills Required

• A genuine interest in forestry, tree work, countryside management and rural estate maintenance
• A practical, hands‑on approach to work
• Enthusiasm and capacity to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn
• Good organisational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to follow instructions and work safely
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or above (or equivalent).
• Previous experience of agricultural, forestry, landscaping or conservation work
• Basic mechanical or machinery knowledge

Knowledge / Experience

Previous forestry or arboricultural experience is not essential as full training will be provided. However, experience gained through farming, countryside management, conservation, landscaping or other practical outdoor activities would be advantageous.

The Apprentice Forestry & Estate Maintenance Operative is expected to demonstrate:

• Reliability and punctuality
• Commitment to learning and personal development
• Positive teamwork and professional conduct
• Respect for colleagues, contractors and visitors
• Attention to detail, standards and quality workmanship
• Care for the estate and natural environment
• Safe working practices at all times
• Flexibility and willingness to undertake a variety of tasks

What we have to Offer

• 33 days holiday, including statutory holidays
• Group Pension Scheme with a 7.7% employer contribution with the option to salary sacrifice
• Group Life Insurance
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Health Cash Plan
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Buy/Sell Holiday Scheme
• Free on-site car parking
• Discounts at Raby retail and food outlets
• Discounts for stays at Raby’s High Force Hotel
• Complimentary access to Raby Castle and High Force leisure attractions
• A behind-the-scenes tour of Raby Castle
• Invitations to Raby Estate social events throughout the year
• A chance to work in one of the most unique and beautiful venues in the region.
• A role that is dynamic, engaging, and never predictable—no two days will be the same!
• A supportive and enthusiastic team that makes every workday enjoyable.

Apprentice Forestry and Estate Maintenance Operative