Apprentice Forestry & Estate Maintenance

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

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