Sustainability Forester

Drax is seeking a Sustainability Forester to manage sustainable forest resources supporting our biomass and low carbon energy operations. Based near our US assets, you'll plan and oversee timber harvesting, conduct inventories and growth modeling, and ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and forestry regulations. You'll work closely with landowners, contractors, and agencies to implement responsible management plans, monitor biodiversity and water impacts, and support certification standards.

Using GIS and forestry tools, you'll analyze data to optimize yield, document performance, and contribute to Drax's sustainability reporting and continuous improvement culture.

Responsibilities

• Plan and oversee sustainable timber harvesting to supply biomass feedstock
• Conduct forest inventories, growth projections, and site assessments
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and forestry regulations and certifications
• Collaborate with landowners, contractors, and regulators on forest management plans
• Monitor biodiversity, soil, and water impacts; recommend mitigation measures
• Collect and analyze forest data to optimize yield and sustainability metrics
• Prepare maps, reports, and documentation using GIS and forestry software
• Support due diligence for new fiber supply areas and supplier evaluations
• Lead field audits, safety checks, and contractor performance reviews
• Contribute technical input to sustainability reporting and stakeholder engagements

Required Skills

• Forest management planning
• Timber cruising and inventory methods
• Silviculture and regeneration techniques
• GIS mapping and spatial analysis
• Forest certification standards (e.g., FSC, SFI, PEFC)
• Environmental and forestry regulatory compliance
• Biomass and fiber supply chain knowledge
• Data analysis and growth/yield modeling
• Field safety management and risk assessment
• Technical reporting and documentation