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Forest Ecology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Coeur d'Alene Tribe

Forest Ecologist

Plummer, ID · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Knowledge of stand conditions, environmental considerations, forest ecology, and silviculture of the major forest cover types found on the Coeur d'Alene Reservation. * Experience with Forest ...

Coeur d'Alene Tribe

Forest Ecologist

Plummer, ID · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Knowledge of stand conditions, environmental considerations, forest ecology, and silviculture of the major forest cover types found on the Coeur d'Alene Reservation. * Experience with Forest ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$19 - $26/hr

... forest ecology and management. Most work will be at local research sites and include forest measurements, tree-ring sampling, and research site maintenance, with occasional data entry and lab work.

WSP

Lead Forest Ecologist

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$141/hr

Lead/organize forestry and/or ecology field data collection and prepare related reports * Advise other team members on forest planning and impact analysis related to US Forest Service and other ...

WSP

Lead Forest Ecologist

Portland, OR · On-site

$141/hr

Lead/organize forestry and/or ecology field data collection and prepare related reports * Advise other team members on forest planning and impact analysis related to US Forest Service and other ...

Tamus

Assistant Professor - Forestry

Temple, TX

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to applied forest science in a region facing significant ecological and economic shifts, and to support the development of resilient forest landscapes ...

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How much do forest ecology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for forest ecology in the United States is $39.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.13 and $44.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can you do with a forest ecology degree?

A forest ecology degree prepares individuals for careers in forest management, conservation, research, and environmental consulting. Graduates can work as forest biologists, conservation scientists, or environmental educators, often utilizing fieldwork, data analysis, and GIS tools. Certification or advanced degrees may enhance job prospects in specialized areas.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in forest ecology, and how can they be addressed?

Forest ecologists often encounter challenges such as working in remote or rugged field locations, managing unpredictable weather conditions, and balancing fieldwork with data analysis and reporting. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including conservationists, land managers, and researchers—is essential to address complex ecological issues. To overcome these challenges, it's important to develop strong communication skills, maintain flexibility in work plans, and stay updated on the latest ecological monitoring technologies and methodologies. Building a supportive professional network can also help in navigating obstacles and advancing your career.

What do forest ecologists do?

Forest ecologists study the relationships between trees, plants, animals, and their environment within forest ecosystems. They conduct field research, collect data using tools like GPS and GIS, and analyze ecological processes to inform conservation and management efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forest ecologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forest Ecologist, you need a solid background in ecology, biology, or environmental science, usually supported by a relevant degree and field research experience. Familiarity with GIS software, statistical analysis tools, and remote sensing technologies is commonly required. Excellent observational skills, critical thinking, and effective communication are vital for interpreting data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for understanding forest ecosystems, informing conservation efforts, and addressing environmental challenges.

What is the difference between Forest Ecology vs Forest Biology?

AspectForest EcologyForest Biology
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Ecology, Environmental Science, ForestryBachelor's or Master's in Biology, Botany, Forestry
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in forests, research stations, labsFieldwork, lab research, forest management sites
Employer & IndustryEnvironmental agencies, research institutions, forestry companiesUniversities, research labs, conservation organizations
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on ecosystem interactions, species relationships, forest healthFocuses on plant and animal species, cellular biology, forest management

Forest Ecology and Forest Biology are closely related fields, but they differ in focus. Forest Ecology emphasizes ecosystem interactions and environmental processes, while Forest Biology concentrates on individual species and cellular aspects. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, making them common points of comparison for those interested in forest-related careers.

What is forest ecology?

Forest ecology is the scientific study of the interactions among the various components of a forest ecosystem, including plants, animals, microorganisms, soil, water, and climate. It examines how these elements interact to shape forest structure, function, and biodiversity. Forest ecologists analyze ecological processes such as nutrient cycling, energy flow, and succession, often with the goal of informing sustainable forest management and conservation. Understanding forest ecology is crucial for addressing environmental challenges like deforestation, climate change, and habitat loss.
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Forest Ecology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forest Ecology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,310 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

Forest Ecologist

Coeur d'Alene Tribe

Plummer, ID • On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Forest Ecologist
Department: NR-Forestry
Compensation: DOE ($55,000 - $70,000)
Additional Note: Full-time, benefits, 3-year position
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities
The Forest Ecologist is responsible for planning, scheduling, directing, and managing the "Landscape Scale Fee Restoration" program, which includes developing forest management plans, administrating forest restoration projects, and conducting ecological surveys on Tribal Fee and Trust Lands. The incumbent should be familiar with the five core values of the Tribe and how those core values are expressed within the actions of the Program and the duties of this position. Must show the highest level of professional standards and promote a positive image of the Tribe and its administration at all times. Major duties include:
  • Responsible for administrating a $300,000 Forest Service grant award through FY2026-2029.
  • Work alongside Fish & Wildlife, Environmental Programs Office, and Water Resources to create desired forest structure for multiple wildlife species and their habitats, and ensure protection and restoration of biodiversity and water quality on the Coeur d'Alene Reservation.
  • Conduct ecological surveys to gather data on soil, vegetation, water, and wildlife habitats.
  • Use statistical software and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze data and identify patterns.
  • Prepare detailed scientific reports, technical documents, and presentations for various stakeholders.
  • Develop and implement forest management plans (FMP), and environmental analyses (EA) that focus on sustainability, biodiversity, and align with Tribal values.
  • Track the effects of climate change, invasive species, and human activities on forest ecosystems.
  • Ensure Tribal lands are maintained in accordance with administrative objectives, Tribal values and goals.
  • Monitor forest road usage and check for Tribal permits.
  • Enforce trespass and theft of timber resources on Fee and Trust Lands.
  • As qualified, develop and oversee research projects to address specific ecological questions.
  • As qualified, assist in fire suppression and prescribed burning.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of stand conditions, environmental considerations, forest ecology, and silviculture of the major forest cover types found on the Coeur d'Alene Reservation.
  • Experience with Forest Projection and Planning System (FPS) and/or Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS)
  • Ability to interact tactfully and diplomatically with other departments, Tribal members, Tribal leadership, employees, and contractors.
  • Ability to write technical reports, prepare maps and graphs, analyze data, and to summarize results, reports, and findings to multiple stakeholders.
  • Ability to use Microsoft Word, Microsoft Access, Excel, ArcGIS and/or ArcPro.
  • Knowledge and experience in firefighting and/or prescribed burning techniques.
  • Knowledge of ecological sampling techniques.

Desired Qualifications
  • A Master's Degree in Forestry, Forest Ecology, or related field of science. However, a Bachelor's Degree might be considered with extensive experience.
  • A minimum of five years of experience in forest management, silviculture, and/or ecology. Preferably, at least two years of the required experience was with a Tribal natural resource management program.
  • Must possess a valid State driver's license and maintain a good driving record, capable of being insured.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and written/verbal communication skills are essential.
  • Expertise in forest ecology, conservation methods, and the impacts of climate change.
  • Good physical condition and the ability to traverse forestlands for long periods of time.
  • Must not have been convicted of a felony involving dishonesty within the past five years.

Work Environment
  • Roughly 75% of the work will be performed in the office with the Forestry Program at the Department of Natural Resources Building in Plummer Idaho. The remaining 25% will be spent working with other programs such as Fish & Wildlife, Land Services, and/or the Forest Service, and will require working in the field on restoration projects, administrating forest regulations, and conducting ecological surveys.
  • This position will report to the Forestry Manager, and will not have supervisory responsibilities.

Guidelines are provided by the Coeur d'Alene Policies and Procedures Manual, Forest Management Plan, federal laws and regulations, Bureau of Indian Affairs manuals and handbooks and technical publications. Other guidance includes scientific literature, environmental assessments, silvicultural prescriptions, written and oral communication from the Forest Manager and other employees of the Natural Resources Department. Professional judgement within those guidelines is necessary to meet landowner objectives, field conditions and special situations.
An applicant may be asked to participate in an interview to establish whether he/she meets the minimum qualifications. Interviews do not create a right to employment and provide no promise or guarantee of employment with the Tribe.
The Coeur d'Alene Tribe reserves the right to hire according to its Indian Preference Policy. Applicants are subject to a pre-employment drug test and at-random testing following employment. Positions with the Coeur d'Alene Tribe are subject to a 6-month orientation period.
Pay Range: $55,000 - $70,000 per year

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