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Assistant Forester Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

URBAN FORESTER

Burbank, CA · On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

Forestry Opening Date: 05/22/2026 Closing Date: Continuous OPEN COMPETITIVE RECRUITMENT Open to all ... the Assistant Parks and Recreation Director; may conduct safety meetings and enforce safety ...

URBAN FORESTER

Burbank, CA · On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

... the Assistant Parks and Recreation Director; may conduct safety meetings and enforce safety ... forestry and agriculture; practical application of green infrastructure, environmental, and ...

Team Urban Forester

Sonora, CA · On-site

$18 - $28/hr

Key Responsibilities * Assist in property assessments and vegetation management, ensuring high ... Experience in forestry, landscaping, or related outdoor industries * Wildland fire experience

... Forestry and Fire Protection (CALFIRE), United States Forest Service (USFS), and Bureau of Land ... Assist client foresters in planning and organizing timber harvests in accordance with all State ...

... Forestry and Fire Protection (CALFIRE), United States Forest Service (USFS), and Bureau of Land ... Assist client foresters in planning and organizing timber harvests in accordance with all State ...

Assistant Forest Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$89K - $116K/yr

Participates with the Forest Engineer/Staff Officer in the formulation of policies, objectives, work programs, and plans by providing authoritative input on Engineering activities of the National ...

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Registered Professional Forester (RPF) role is to coordinate with property owners and ... * Assist PG&E foresters in planning and organizing timber harvests in accordance with all State ...

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Registered Professional Forester (RPF) role is to coordinate with property owners and ... * Assist PG&E foresters in planning and organizing timber harvests in accordance with all State ...

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Assistant Forester information

See California salary details

$5

$24

$39

How much do assistant forester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant forester in California is $24.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant forester, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Forester, you need a solid background in forestry, environmental science, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, forest inventory software, and equipment for field data collection is typically required. Strong observation skills, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating with stakeholders and reporting findings. These competencies ensure accurate resource management, regulatory compliance, and sustainable forest stewardship.

What is an assistant forester?

Assistant Foresters are professionals who support the management and conservation of forests, working under the supervision of senior foresters. They assist in tasks such as planting trees, monitoring forest health, collecting data, and implementing forestry projects. Their work helps maintain healthy forest ecosystems, support sustainable timber production, and protect natural habitats. Assistant Foresters often work outdoors and may also participate in educational outreach or fire prevention programs.

What is the difference between Assistant Forester vs Forest Technician?

AspectAssistant ForesterForest Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Forestry or related fieldAssociate's degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, forest management, planningFieldwork, data collection, site assessments
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, forestry companiesForestry agencies, conservation organizations

Assistant Foresters and Forest Technicians often work together in forest management, with the assistant focusing on planning and supervision, while the technician handles data collection and site assessments. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, making them closely related in the forestry industry.

What are some common challenges assistant foresters face when working in the field, and how can they prepare for them?

Assistant Foresters often encounter challenges like navigating difficult terrain, unpredictable weather, and managing multiple field projects simultaneously. To prepare, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, maintain physical fitness, and stay adaptable to changing conditions. Building good communication with supervisors and field teams also helps in efficiently addressing issues as they arise. Having a solid understanding of safety protocols and being comfortable with technology used for data collection are also key to success in this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forester jobs in California? The most popular types of Forester jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Forester jobs in California? For Assistant Forester jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Forester jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Forester jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Forester jobs? Cities in California with the most Assistant Forester job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Forester job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,651 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

$89K - $117K/yr

Temporary

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Salary : $89,733.54 - $117,999.70 Annually
Location : Burbank, CA
Job Type: Expedited
Job Number: 260969M1-2
Department: Parks and Recreation
Division: Forestry
Opening Date: 05/22/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
OPEN COMPETITIVE RECRUITMENT
Open to all qualified candidates.
Tentative examination dates for this recruitment:
TBD - Performance exam
TBD - Oral interview
Dates may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Candidates who pass each phase of the recruitment process will be notified of the official examination dates.
Under direction, to manage the City's urban forestry program through monitoring performance, production, and quality of work; serve as a liaison between the City and community regarding urban forestry matters; provide highly responsible administrative support to assigned supervisor; and perform related work as required.
Essential Functions
Performs a variety of administrative tasks related to reviewing, negotiating, and administering various maintenance and service contracts; utilizes a tree inventory data collection and analysis software system; reviews, recommends, and approves tree removal permits; interacts with City departments in the development of tree related projects; develops annual tree trimming schedule, removal, and planting activities including those outlined in the Urban Forest Master Plan; investigates, analyzes, responds to, and resolves complaints from the general public regarding the location or condition of trees; prepares projects related to, but not limited to, capital improvements and the Urban Forest Master Plan; utilizes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping software and other specialized software; manages tree claims and may represent the City at legal proceedings and court hearings; prepares and presents detailed and comprehensive written reports and oral presentations containing complex information and analysis to a variety of audiences, including but not limited to the City Council; works with contractors and volunteer groups and oversees projects; provides budget input, executes purchases, and manages resources related to urban forestry projects; inspects landscape and forestry areas, including trees, throughout the City and initiates work orders to trim, spray, or remove trees; may supervise the forestry crew in the absence of the Assistant Parks and Recreation Director; may conduct safety meetings and enforce safety regulations; reads and interprets construction plans; attends meetings as directed; drives on City business.
Minimum Qualifications
Employment Standards:
Knowledge of principles and practices of landscape architecture and urban design; principles in urban forestry and agriculture; practical application of green infrastructure, environmental, and sustainability practices; native and exotic plant materials; basic principles of irrigation design; basic engineering principles in grading, drainage, erosion control, and paving design; principles and practices of public speaking; spelling, grammar, and punctuation; basic budgeting; principles and practices of sound personnel management and supervision. Est. 11/25/2025 Civil Service Classification BMA FLSA Exempt
Skill in standard and specialized tree maintenance; public relations; utilizing computers and a variety of computer software at a proficient level.
Ability to read blueprints; manage and negotiate contracts; assess customer needs and make effective recommendations; learn new software programs including GIS and other technologies for urban forestry; make independent decisions; learn and implement City policies, procedures, and codes; effectively handle unusual or difficult citizen complaints; maintain records and prepare written reports; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, fellow employees, and the public.
Education/Training: Any combination of education and/or experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for acceptable job performance as determined by the City. Example combination includes but is not limited to graduation from an accredited college or university with major course work in park planning, landscape architecture, horticulture, urban forestry, or a closely related field, and four years of recent professional experience in landscape and architecture or park planning.
Special Conditions & Requirements: Ability to work holidays, weekends, after hours, and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions while exposed to the elements as needed.
License & Certificates: A valid California Class "C" driver's license or equivalent; certification as a Certified Arborist by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) at time of appointment; Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) by ISA must be completed within three years of appointment. All required certificates must be maintained throughout employment in this classification.
Supplemental Information
Desirable Qualifications: A valid California Class "A" driver's license or equivalent. A master's degree in park management, landscape architecture, or public administration.
This job title is represented by the Burbank Management Association (BMA)
The City of Burbank offers excellent employee benefits, please click on the following link for additional information regarding employee benefits: https://www.burbankca.gov/web/management-services/employee-benefits
Additionally, there are Benefit Summary Sheets for each represented and unrepresented employee group that provide a more detailed summary of benefits. There are also some Benefit Summary Sheets for specific job titles. To access the Benefit Summary Sheets, please click here: https://www.burbankca.gov/web/management-services/benefits-summary-sheets
Please note, employee benefits vary based on employment status - full-time or part-time; regular or temporary, and many benefits are not applicable to temporary employees.
01
You must answer the following question in order to be considered for the position. The purpose of this Supplemental Questionnaire is to give you an opportunity to provide additional information regarding your specific qualifications for the position of Urban Forester. This Supplemental Questionnaire is considered part of your application process and will be evaluated along with your application on a competitive basis to determine which applicants will proceed to the next step in the selection process.INSTRUCTIONSAnswers should be complete, specific, and precise. Incomplete, illegible, vague, or excessively long responses to any question may disqualify you from being considered further for the position. Please be specific in answering the Supplemental Questions, as they will be used to evaluate which applicants will be given further consideration in the process. DO NOT answer, "see resume" or "see application" as these are not valid answers. Click "Yes" to reflect that you have read and understand this statement.
  • Yes
  • No

02
Which statement best describes your educational background?
  • I have graduated from an accredited college or university with major course work in park planning, landscape architecture, horticulture, or urban forestry.
  • I have graduated from an accredited college or university with major course work in closely related field.
  • I have graduated from an accredited college or university with major course work in a different field.
  • I have not graduated from an accredited college or university.

03
How many years of recent professional experience in landscape and architecture or park planning do you possess?
  • No experience
  • 1-2 years
  • 3 years
  • 4+ years

04
I understand that all requested information must be furnished on the application itself. Resumes and/or attachments may be included, but CANNOT BE SUBSTITUTED for a completed application form. A resume submitted in lieu of an application will not be sufficient. Furthermore, "See resume" is not an acceptable response under Duties. An application containing this response may be deemed incomplete. If I do not provide information on my application under Education, Experience, and/or License and Certificates sections that I meet the minimum qualifications for the position I am applying for, I will be deemed "not qualified" and may not proceed in the recruitment.
  • YES

Required Question