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Forest Management Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Cruising timber to evaluate quality and volumes; negotiating timber contracts and developing forest management plans; marking timber and establishing harvest boundaries; administering timber sales ...

Cruising timber to evaluate quality and volumes; negotiating timber contracts and developing forest management plans; marking timber and establishing harvest boundaries; administering timber sales ...

General Laborer

Atlantic Mine, MI · On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

About Northern Hardwoods Northern Hardwoods is an integrated hardwoods products company that manages the entire forest-to-products process, from harvesting timber to the production of hardwood lumber ...

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Forest Management information

See Michigan salary details

$26.1K

$56.7K

$95.9K

How much do forest management jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for forest management in Michigan is $56,676.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,100.00 and $64,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is forest management?

Forest management is the process of planning and implementing practices for the stewardship and use of forests to meet environmental, economic, social, and cultural objectives. It involves activities such as timber harvesting, reforestation, conservation of biodiversity, wildfire prevention, and maintaining ecosystem health. The goal is to balance resource extraction with long-term sustainability, ensuring forests can provide benefits for current and future generations. Forest management can be applied to public, private, or community-owned forests, each with specific policies and objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in forest management?

To thrive in Forest Management, you need a background in forestry, environmental science, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's degree and knowledge of sustainable land management practices. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, forest inventory systems, and sometimes relevant certifications like Certified Forester are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, effective communication, and leadership skills help in working with diverse stakeholders and managing field teams. These skills ensure responsible stewardship of forest resources, balancing ecological health, economic goals, and regulatory compliance.

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

Professionals in Forest Management often face challenges such as balancing conservation goals with economic interests, addressing the impacts of climate change, and managing conflicts among diverse stakeholders. These challenges require strong communication and negotiation skills, as well as up-to-date knowledge of sustainable forestry practices and regulations. Teamwork is essential, as forest managers frequently collaborate with government agencies, private landowners, scientists, and community groups to develop and implement effective management plans.

What is the difference between Forest Management vs Forest Technician?

AspectForest ManagementForest Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in forestry, environmental science, or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in forestry or natural resources
Work EnvironmentPlanning, policy development, and overseeing forest operationsFieldwork, data collection, and assisting with forest management activities
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, private forestry companies, environmental organizationsForestry services, conservation projects, government agencies

Forest Management involves strategic planning and decision-making to sustainably oversee forest resources, often requiring higher education. In contrast, Forest Technicians support field operations, data collection, and implementation of management plans. Both roles are essential in forestry, but they differ in responsibilities, credentials, and work environment.

What can you do with a forest management degree?

A forest management degree prepares individuals for careers in managing and conserving forests, including roles such as forest ranger, conservation scientist, or forest technician. Graduates can work in government agencies, private landowners, or environmental organizations, often utilizing skills in GIS, forestry equipment, and environmental regulations.

What do forest management professionals do?

Forest management professionals plan, oversee, and implement practices to sustain and improve forest health, productivity, and biodiversity. They may conduct field surveys, develop management plans, and use tools like GIS and GPS, often requiring knowledge of environmental regulations and certifications such as SAF or ISA. Their work involves collaboration with stakeholders to ensure sustainable resource use and conservation.

What are popular job titles related to Forest Management jobs in Michigan?

For Forest Management jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forest Management jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Forest Management jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Forest Management jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Forest Management job openings:

Infographic showing various Forest Management job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 94% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,676 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Forester - Procurement

pca

Filer City, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 hours ago


Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Procurement Forester

Responsibilities include:

Experienced forestry graduate.  Cruising timber to evaluate quality and volumes; negotiating timber contracts and developing forest management plans; marking timber and establishing harvest boundaries; administering timber sales and merchandising the products on that sale; maintaining compliance with PCA wood certification programs; being familiar with and following the SFI guidelines for Michigan.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Forest Management required    
  • Applicants must have 2 years’ experience in forestry
  • Experience using Microsoft Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Pulp and Paper Industry experience preferred 

Knowledge-Skills-Abilities

  • Demonstrate working knowledge of the technical and professional aspects of forestry
  • Demonstrate working knowledge of land resource management
  • Ability to regulate and communicate with wood suppliers, private landowners and state and federal agencies
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule
  • Safety and forestry related continued education courses

Competitive pay and benefit package.

 

Please apply to:  www.careers.packagingcorp.com


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