Forest Operations Worker Application Pack

This post is being part-financed by the Scottish Government and the European Community Argyll and the Islands Leader 2007-2013 programme

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE)

1 of 16

Company No 333208 Scottish Charity No SC038908

Contents

  1. Background Information on Kilfinan Community Forest Company (KCFC)
  1. Mission Statement
  1. Job Description
  1. Schedule of Recruitment
  1. Application Form
  1. Notes for Applicants on Completing the Application Form

Note

Please send the completed and signed form (ie. pages 8-12 inclusive)

by 17.00, Friday 1st Februarymarked:

CONFIDENTIAL

Kilfinan Community Forest Company

Tighnabruaich

Argyll, PA21 2BD

Or email to:

To request this document in other formats, please email

or telephone 01700 811159

Kilfinan Community Forest Company

1.Background Information

The Kilfinan Community Forest aim began in 2005 with the launch of the National Forest Land Scheme. The community recognised the need to increase local self sufficiency in the area by providing the opportunities for jobs, training, homes and in developing the basic resources in harnessing the forest resource and give opportunities for our young people to live and work here.
National Forest Land Scheme
In 2008 we successfully applied to buy 1100 acres of the forest through the National Forest Land Scheme. However, due to the lack of clear government funding KCFC negotiated to buy a smaller area of 312 acres (127ha) by March 2010. Community interest will be held on the remaining area for the next 5 years. We aim to demonstrate how this forest resource can help bring jobs, develop training opportunities, offer woodland crofts and smallholdings to help attract and retain young people and families who wish to live and work in the area.
Our Community
The Kilfinan Community comprises the settlements and people of Ardlamont, Kames, Kilfinan, Millhouse, Otter Ferry, Portavadie and Tighnabruaich all of which are within the PA21 postcode and the Parish of Kilfinan.

Development of the Forest Resource
Development of the forest is already generating training and employment in woodland management. The forest will also generate large amounts of timber for woodfuel and construction materials such as sheds, huts, timber-framed houses and kennels to name a few.
Community ownership of this forest will allow the development of the forest to tackle a range of problems in the area. We can create training and all-year-round employment in forest management and in timber products. Good quality local woodfuel is now available to heat our homes. Long or short walks and orienteering and mountain biking will attract more visitors and encourage more people to the area and keep us healthy! Community allotments already provide good organic produce to local families and the prospect of woodland crofts allows the chance to self-build a home, start a family and build a business.
Currently lack of employment, limited amenities and access to affordable housing all stack up to limít the prospects for families wishing to live or stay here. This compromises our local school, post office, shops and our future services. Essentially we need to attract and retain more people to come and live here and be part of this community.
Our future can only become more reliant on its local resources. If people have access to land for growing food, the forest for fuel and building materials, the open hill for deer and wind and the rivers and burns for water and power - we will be building a resilient future as custodians of our local environment for our children to inherit.

2.Mission Statement

Kilfinan Community Forest Company (KCFC) is a charitable enterprise formed to work with and for the local community to manage and develop their forest, creating opportunities for a sustainable future for:-

  • the local economy

To create jobs, provide training and boost local business income through

  • forestry operations
  • wood products
  • tourism
  • recreation and tourism

To encourage everyone to explore and enjoy the forest as a leisure resource with facilities for

  • walkers
  • runners
  • cyclists
  • picnic areas
  • the environment

To create a healthy habitat and help in the fight against climate change encouraging

  • growing food locally
  • composting
  • using wood fuel
  • wildlife
  • education

To bring the forest to life for all ages by providing

  • nature trails
  • wildlife guides
  • a forest school

KCFC is a local Scottish charity with a volunteer board nominated by the local community. The community company successfully purchased 127ha or 300 acres of forest in March 2010. The vision entails the restoration of the woodlands to native species while at the same time providing work for locals and a recreational and educational facility for both the community and visitors.

3.Job Description

This one year post will involve helping set up a small garden retail outlet at Kilfinan Community Forest as well as working in our timber yard. The right candidate will also support our Operations Manager in developing, managing and delivering the programme of activities scheduled in KCFC’s phase 3 forest development programme. This post would suit a keen motivated individual with excellent communication skills who an interest in sustainable business development and forest enterprises.

Job Description

The role requires an experienced individual to run a small garden retail outlet from our community forest selling garden products to the local community. They will also be expected to provide support to the Operations Manager in the development/erection of a milling timber yard and wood fuel enterprise. They will have the support of our Operations Administrator in developing the business and seeing that materials are at hand when needed. These developments will take place in a 16ha site currently ear marked as a Project Development Area (PDA). Once the road and timber/wood fuel facilities have been completed the suitable candidate will be expected to assist with felling operations and milling timber. An opportunity for training will be provided to help assist with this part of project. They will be liaising closely with the Development Officer and Forest Development Group (FDG).

Essential Duties

  • Help set up garden retail outlet area.
  • Assist with development of a business plan.
  • Liaison closely with the Operations Manager and Administrator.
  • Sell products to members of the public.
  • Record sales and help develop product lines.
  • Assist in promotional events.
  • Support Operations Manager in felling operations and milling timber (training provided).
  • Attend project meetings.
  • Act as a point of contact for contractors and members of the public.

Supervision

The post holder will work under the direct supervision of the Operations Manager and the indirect supervision of the Development Officer. This position does not supervise other personnel.

Person Specification

Essential:

  • Knowledge of garden and forestry products.
  • Experience working with the public (retail).
  • Ability to work as part of a team or under own initiative - job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities, challenges and be self-motivated.
  • Good communication skills – written and oral.
  • Time Management - ability to managing own time and ensure jobs are completed within specified time frames.
  • Record keeping skills.
  • Applicants need to be motivated, physically fit and able to work hard out of doors in all weathers and be involved in a range of physical tasks.
  • Current and valid Tetanus vaccination required.

Preferred

  • Experience of working in a forestry environment.
  • Knowledge of forestry and /or construction machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
  • Experience of using Chainsaws and relevant LANTRA qualifications.
  • Monitoring and controlling site resources.
  • Intermediate IT skills – ability to document & record information in written or electronic formats - maintaining clear and concise team, H&S and site records.
  • Multi –tasking – ability to handle several different activities simultaneously.
  • Current First Aid or Outdoors First Aid certificate.
  • An interest in community woodlands.

Terms and Conditions

  • 1 year post initially but expected to be extended as business develops.
  • A minimum of 28 hours per week. The post holder may be required to work flexible hours, where necessary, to meet the demands of the post. Time off in lieu will be given.
  • Starting salary £14,000.
  • The successful candidate will work on site at Kilfinan Community Forest, Tighnabruiach, Argyll. On-line computing facilities will be provided at KCFC’s current site offices.
  • Kilfinan Community Forest Company has an equal opportunities policy to ensure all members of staff employed by KCFC and all applicants for employment will be given equal opportunity irrespective of sex, marital status, race, colour, nationality or ethnic origin, in all aspects of recruitment, employment, promotion and training. The Company is committed to giving full and fair consideration to people with disabilities applying for this post who possess the relevant skills and experience.

Kilfinan Community Forest Company has an equal opportunities policy to ensure all members of staff employed by KCFC and all applicants for employment will be given equal opportunity irrespective of sex, marital status, race, colour, nationality or ethnic origin, in all aspects of recruitment, employment, promotion and training. The Company is committed to giving full and fair consideration to people with disabilities applying for this post who possess the relevant skills and experience.

4.Schedule of Recruitment

Deadline for submission of Application forms Friday 1st February 2013
Contact successful applicants for interview on Tuesday 5th February 2013
Each candidate will be asked to do a short 5-10 minute presentation (subject tbd) and have a Q & A session afterwards on Friday 8th February 2013
The candidates will be informed of the result by Tuesday12thFebruary 2013

5.Forest Operations Worker Application Form

Section 1: Contact Details

First Name / Last Name
Previous Name(s) - if applicable
Address
Town / Telephone
County / Mobile
Postcode / Email address

Section 2: Employment Record

Present or most recent employer:

Dates employed:

Employer's Address:

Notice period:

Position held and brief description of duties:

Previous Employers

Employer's name and address / Position(s) held / Date from / Date To

Section 3: Education and Training

Education

Including Qualification(s) currently being undertaken

Qualification obtained, including grade / Date Awarded / School, College, University, IFE

Details of any membership(s) of Professional Associations / Bodies

Membership Details / Date Awarded

Training (Relevant work related courses)

Course title and subjects covered / Date and duration / Training organisation

Driving Licence

Do you hold a current, clean, valid driving licence? Yes No

Please give details if you have answered ‘No’ to the above question:

Do you own or have use of a car? Yes No

Leisure Activities

What activities do your pursue in your leisure time?

Section 4: Relevant experience and skills

Please indicate how you satisfy the criteria set out in the job specification by giving specific examples of where you have demonstrated the skills required from your personal and work experience (paid or unpaid), education and training. Particular attention should be given to providing examples against each competency listed. Please refer to the guidance notes for further information. Please continue on a separate sheet if necessary.

Section 5: References

Name / Name
Job Title / Job Title
Address / Address
Postcode / Postcode
Tel / Tel
Fax / Fax
Email / Email
Can this referee be contacted if you are shortlisted? / Can this referee be contacted if you are shortlisted?

Section 6: Declaration of criminal offences

Do you have any warnings, offences, convictions, cautions, bindovers or any court cases pending or in your recent past as covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. If yes please give details and relevant date(s).

Yes No

Section 7 – Dismissal , disciplinary or capability procedures

Have you ever been a subject of disciplinary or capability procedures or been dismissed or resigned from a position pending disciplinary investigations taking place? If yes please give details on a separate sheet.

Yes No

Section 8 – Asylum and Immigration Act 1996

National Insurance No:

Do you require a work permit to work in the UK? Yes No

Section 9 – Declaring an interest

Please give details if you are related to or have a personal relationship with an Elected Member or Officer of the Trust:

Section 10 – Additional Information/special arrangements

Dates and times when not available for interview:

Any other relevant additional information:

Section 11: Declaration

Under the terms of the Data Protection Act 1998 the information you provide in this application form and recruitment monitoring form will only be used for the purpose of assessing your suitability for employment, for monitoring the Trust's policies and procedures and human resource management purposes.

If you are unsuccessful this information will be retained on file for at least 6 months. The information may be used in internal proceedings to consider a complaint about the selection process and/or to defend KCFC against a legal challenge to the fairness of the selection process from any interested party.

The trust is under a duty to protect the funds it administers and to this end it must use the information you have provided on this form within its authority for the prevention and detection of crime and fraud. It may also share this information with other bodies administering funds solely for this purpose.

I understand the information above and hereby

1. Declare that the information provided in this application form and recruitment monitoring form is correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. I understand that information that KCFC deems to be false, misleading or incomplete will justify withdrawal of an offer of appointment or my dismissal from KCFC service.

2. Agree that the information I give KCFC in connection with this application for employment may be stored and processed for the purposes stated above.

3. Consent to KCFC undertaking any checks it may deem necessary in connection with my application.

4. Agree to KCFC asking my previous employers questions regarding my sickness and disciplinary record and give my consent for my previous employers to disclose this information.

5. Understand that canvassing of Board Members directly or indirectly in connection with any appointment shall disqualify me.

Signed: ______

Date: ______

I confirm I am not disqualified from working with children or vulnerable adults or subject to any sanctions imposed by a regulatory body. I understand that the provision of false information may possibly result in referral to the police.

Signed: ______

Date:______

Recruitment Monitoring Form

KCFC is committed to a policy of equality and diversity for all staff regardless of race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability or any other factor. Our Equal Opportunities Policy demonstrates a commitment to all job applicants. With this in mind, all stages of the recruitment process will be monitored. This sheet will be separated from your application form upon receipt and will not be made available to those involved in the selection process.

Section 12 – Personal details

Sex / Male / Female
Date of Birth / Age
Ethnic Group / White / Mixed
British / White & Black Caribbean
Irish / White & Black African
Any other white background, please give details: / White & Asian
Any other mixed background, please give details
Asian or Asian British / Black or Black British
Indian / Caribbean
Pakistani / Africa
Bangladeshi / Any other black background, please give details:
Any other Asian background, please give details:
Nationality
Religion / Christian / Muslim
Hindu / Jewish
Sikh / Buddhist
Johovah Witness / None
Any other religion
Sexual Orientation / Bisexual / Lesbian
Gay / Heterosexual
Prefer not to say

Section 13: Disability

KCFC is committed to ensuring that employees who have a disability are given every possible assistance in the workplace.

Do you consider yourself to be disabled? Yes No

What do we mean by a disability?

The Disability Discrimination Act defines disability as ‘a physical or mental impairment with long term, substantial effects on ability to perform day to day activities.

Examples of Disabilities

The following list of conditions or impairments is given as a guide only and is not meant to be exclusive. We have provided this list as it may help you to answer the question.

* Hearing, Speech or Visual Impairments – if you wear glasses or contact lenses this is not normally considered a disability

* Co-ordination, dexterity or mobility e.g. polio, spinal cord injury, back problems, repetitive strain injury

* Mental health e.g. schizophrenia, depression, severe phobias

* Speech Impairment e.g. stammering

* Learning Disabilities e.g. Down’s syndrome

* Other Physical or medical conditions e.g. diabetes, epilepsy, arthritis, cardiovascular conditions, haemophilia, asthma, cancer, facial disfigurement, sickle cell, dyslexia etc.

Section 14: Advertising monitoring

How did you find out about this vacancy?

Please list which publication or internet site:

I understand that the Declaration in Section 12 applies to this monitoring form as well as the main application form.

Signed: ______

Date:______

Thank you for completing this application form, please see guidance notes for return address and contact details.

6.Notes for Applicants on Completing the Application Form

The following information is designed to help you complete the application form as effectively as possible. Please contact KCFC if you require assistance in completing the form, or need the form in an alternative format.

Please read the information pack paying particular attention to the job description and person specification. You can provide a CV in addition to the application form.

SECTION 1

Contact Details

Please complete this section fully.

If you are currently working please make sure you indicate if you do not wish to be contacted at work. We would prefer to contact you via e-mail if possible so please confirm your preferred e-mail address in the relevant box. Please provide all previous names.