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Forest Conservation Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Regulatory Specialist

Laurel, MD · On-site

$80K - $116K/yr

Leading and preparing Forest Conservation Plan, Critical Area, and Tier II submissions in ... Regular full-time and part-time employees (working at least 20 hours per week) have access to ...

Conservation Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

$46K - $48K/yr

... working effectively and independently in the field with minimal guidance Additional duties as ... Bachelor's degree in landscape architecture, natural resources, ecology, forestry, resource ...

Conservation Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

$46K - $48K/yr

... • Capable of working effectively and independently in the field with minimal guidance • ... forestry, resource management, biology, wildlife biology, urban planning with an emphasis on ...

Showing results 21-40

Forest Conservation Worker information

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$5

$24

$35

How much do forest conservation worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for forest conservation worker in the United States is $24.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forest conservation worker?

Forest Conservation Workers are professionals who assist with the management, protection, and improvement of forests and natural areas. They help plant trees, suppress forest fires, clear brush, and monitor forest health to ensure sustainable use of woodland resources. Their work supports conservation efforts, wildlife habitat preservation, and the prevention of soil erosion. These workers often collaborate with foresters and other environmental specialists to maintain and restore natural ecosystems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forest conservation worker?

To thrive as a Forest Conservation Worker, you need a solid understanding of forestry practices, environmental science, and physical stamina, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant associate degree. Familiarity with tools like GPS devices, chainsaws, and mapping software, as well as certifications in safety and pesticide use, are commonly required. Strong teamwork, effective communication, and adaptability to outdoor working conditions are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure the effective protection and restoration of forest ecosystems while maintaining safety and efficiency on the job.

What are some common challenges faced by forest conservation workers in the field?

Forest Conservation Workers often encounter challenges such as working in remote or rugged terrain, dealing with unpredictable weather conditions, and managing physical demands like hiking long distances or carrying equipment. Additionally, they may face obstacles related to coordinating with landowners, local communities, or government agencies to implement conservation practices. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial for overcoming these challenges and ensuring the success of conservation projects.

What is the difference between Forest Conservation Worker vs Forest Ranger?

AspectForest Conservation WorkerForest Ranger
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in conservation or forestryHigh school diploma; often additional certifications or training in forestry or law enforcement
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in forests, parks, and conservation areasFieldwork in forests, parks, and protected areas; includes enforcement duties
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, conservation organizationsGovernment agencies, national parks, forestry departments
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

While both Forest Conservation Workers and Forest Rangers work outdoors in forested environments and support conservation efforts, Forest Rangers often have additional responsibilities such as enforcing laws and regulations. Forest Conservation Workers focus more on habitat restoration, planting, and maintenance tasks. The roles overlap in work environment and employer but differ in scope and duties.

What cities are hiring for Forest Conservation Worker jobs?

Cities with the most Forest Conservation Worker job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Forest Conservation Worker jobs?

The top employers for Forest Conservation Worker jobs are:

What states have the most Forest Conservation Worker jobs?

States with the most job openings for Forest Conservation Worker jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Forest Conservation Worker jobs?

For Forest Conservation Worker jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Forest Conservation Worker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,396 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Forester - South Dakota

Rapid City, SD • On-site

National Wild Turkey Federation
Non-Profits • 201 - 500 employees

$54K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist partners in promoting management of privately owned forested lands and riparian areas for multiple resource benefits.

  • Develop and implement forest management plans, including silvicultural practices and forest management activities.

  • Provide technical assistance, develop conservation projects, and promote awareness of conservation programs.


Job description

Job Type
Full-time, Contract
Description
The National Wild Turkey Federation is seeking qualified candidates for a forester position, to be located in Rapid City or Custer, South Dakota. The position will be a cooperative position and will be responsible for promoting forest & riparian management on private lands in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. This is a full time, term position expiring September 2027, with the potential to extend the term.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF WORK: Assists partners in promoting management of privately owned forested lands and riparian areas for multiple resource benefits, including forest health, wildlife habitat, fuels reduction and water quality; provides forestry assistance to private landowners, communities and public agencies to achieve optimum environmental, economic and social benefits from forest resources; implements silvicultural practices and delivers technical assistance and financial assistance programs under the direction of cooperating partners.
DUTIES:
  • Provide multiple resource management planning that addresses significant forest and riparian health concerns on private lands through the delivery of technical assistance and available federal and state financial assistance programs
  • Develop consensus among partners and provide recommendations for working in oak, aspen and other hardwood stands and riparian areas to ensure these critical habitats are included in private lands management planning
  • Work with local conservation districts to identify and plan multi-partner landscape level conservation projects
  • Provide expertise related to management of wildlife habitat beneficial to wild turkeys, elk, deer and other wildlife species with emphasis placed on forest health, including forest thinning, proper grazing regimes and riparian improvements
  • Prepare and implement forest management plans based on accepted silvicultural practices
  • Prepare forest management project contracts, providing specifications and prescriptions for thinning, mastication, slash treatments, and other forest management activities
  • Obtain Tree Farm Inspector Certification and work to promote and maintain certification of Tree Farms in the region
  • Develop and deliver innovative forest management techniques to landowners and cooperators through workshops, written materials, field days and educational programs
  • Provide internal review and input as requested on need, purpose and design during all stages of USDA-NRCS program forest management project planning and implementation
  • Promote awareness and collaboration of state, federal and local conservation programs and planning, and acquire project support through engagement with conservation organizations, local conservation groups, industry and local communities
  • Develop relationships and working partnerships with the USDA-NRCS offices, USDA-U.S. Forest Service, SD Game Fish and Parks Dept., SD Dept. of Agriculture Resource Conservation & Forestry, Conservation NGO's, County Weed and Pest Management, County Commissioners, Private Forest Industry, Mountain Pine Beetle Conservation Leaders Group, Mountain Pine Beetle Working Group and Tree Farm committee

Requirements
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: Preferred candidates will possess experience working in ponderosa pine ecosystems, riparian communities and knowledge of wild turkeys, forest wildlife and their habitat requirements; knowledge of forest entomology, pathology, forest management and planning for major silvicultural types of the region; knowledge of basic surveying principles, map reading and GIS/GPS technology, ArcGIS skills; ability to apply professional scientific techniques to the land for which responsibilities are assigned; ability to effectively cooperate with private landowners, the general public, cooperators and peers; skills in the use and operation of forestry field equipment and ATVs; skills in communicating both orally and in written form to convey clear, persuasive messages that positively influence the thoughts and actions of others; proficient skills in the use of Microsoft Office applications
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Demonstrated knowledge of forestry and wildlife biology
  • Strong organizational skills and capability to work independently with little direct supervision
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Applicants must possess a Bachelor's degree in Forestry from a SAF-Accredited Program or other natural resource degree with a strong forestry emphasis, or relevant experience (Applicants with a Master's degree in forestry or education/experience in wildlife management are preferred) .
  • Demonstrated proficiency using Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, Powerpoint and Outlook

This position will remain posted until filled.
Salary Description
$54,757 Minimum Annual Salary