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Forester Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... forests and beaches of Santa Cruz and the spectacular Monterey Peninsula. Caltrain runs weekdays ... Physical Agility Work Sample Test Battery Certificate with a minimum score of 320 points (Trainee ...

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Forester Trainee information

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$5

$24

$39

How much do forester trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for forester trainee 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 is a forester trainee?

Forester Trainees are entry-level professionals who work under the supervision of experienced foresters to learn the fundamentals of forest management, conservation, and ecology. They assist with tasks such as planting trees, conducting surveys, monitoring forest health, and helping to implement management plans. The role is designed to provide practical, on-the-job training and exposure to various aspects of forestry work, preparing trainees for more advanced responsibilities as they gain experience and knowledge.

What are some common challenges faced by forester trainees during their first year on the job?

Forester Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to fieldwork in varying and sometimes harsh outdoor conditions, learning to use specialized equipment, and interpreting complex environmental data. Additionally, balancing time between fieldwork, office tasks, and ongoing training can be demanding. However, support from experienced foresters and structured training programs helps new trainees build confidence and develop essential forestry skills.

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

To thrive as a Forester Trainee, you typically need a degree in forestry or a related field, along with foundational knowledge of forest ecology and management practices. Familiarity with GIS software, forest inventory tools, and data collection systems is commonly expected. Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help you collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders in field and office settings. These abilities are crucial for accurately assessing forest resources, implementing management plans, and ensuring sustainable and effective forestry operations.

What is the difference between Forester Trainee vs Forest Technician?

AspectForester TraineeForest Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may prefer related courseworkHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in forests, parks, and conservation areasFieldwork and office tasks related to forest management
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, conservation organizations, forestry companiesGovernment agencies, forestry services, environmental firms

Forester Trainees typically focus on learning forest management and conservation practices, often as entry-level positions or internships. Forest Technicians usually perform more technical tasks, including data collection and site assessments. While both roles involve fieldwork in forest environments and share similar employer types, Forester Trainees are generally in a learning phase, whereas Forest Technicians are more experienced in technical duties.

How to start a career in forestry?

To start a career as a forester trainee, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree in forestry, environmental science, or a related field. Gaining practical experience through internships or seasonal work and developing skills in GIS, tree identification, and forest management are also important steps. Certifications such as the SAF (Society of American Foresters) credential can enhance job prospects.

Is being a forester trainee a hard job?

Being a forester trainee can be physically demanding and requires working outdoors in various weather conditions. The role involves learning forestry skills, using tools like GPS devices and chainsaws, and often requires physical stamina and attention to safety protocols. The difficulty level varies based on individual fitness and experience, but it generally involves hands-on work and ongoing training.

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 Forester Trainee jobs in California?

For Forester Trainee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forester Trainee jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Forester Trainee jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Forester Trainee jobs?

Cities in California with the most Forester Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Forester Trainee job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. 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.

Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Helitack)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Idyllwild, CA • On-site

$62K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Serve as first line supervisor of a crew of helitack personnel/firefighters and oversee their activities.

  • Utilize helicopters in support of all types of incidents, including providing fast initial attack and large fire support.

  • Coordinate and communicate incident objectives, situations, and tactics with pilots, crews, and dispatchers.


United States Department Of Agriculture rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

455th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

These positions are located on a USDA Forest Service Unit.
The incumbent serves as first line supervisor of a crew of helitack personnel/firefighters that are established to provide fast initial attack, and large fire support and utilizes helicopters in support of all types of incidents.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION for Regional contacts.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-07 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-06) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Oversaw helicopter service contract and enforced contract provisions; Conducted training in the techniques of aviation, fire suppression, prescribed burning and fuels reduction methods; Performed many technical specializations such as helicopter rappelling, long line, felling, saw repair or water handling used in fire suppression and prescribed burning independently; Communicated critical information pertaining to incident objectives, situations and tactics to pilot(s), crews and dispatchers.
For the GW-08 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-07) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Planned and coordinated complex fire and aviation operations at a temporary or fixed base work location; determined helicopter load limits, takeoff and landing sites, and estimated time requirements; analyzed fire conditions and determined attack methods and resources required; conducted hands-on training pertaining to program and personnel needs related to fire and aviation.
Selective Placement Factors
Successful completion of the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Helicopter Manager, Single Resource (HMGB) and Incident Commander Type 4 (ICT4). In addition, successful completion of the Secondary NWCG Core Requirements of Helibase Manager Trainee (HEBM(t)).
Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) and Forest Service - Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) qualifications must be met by the time of selection. Most recent IQCS master record and/or signed Agency Certified task book must be attached to your application. If you are selected, you may be required to submit an updated IQCS master record or signed Agency Certified task book as proof of attainment of IFPM requirements prior to a final verbal offer.
In order to be considered for this position, copies of your Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record (or equivalent training documents) which contain documented proof of the certification or attainment of the IFPM Selective Placement Factor for this position MUST be attached to your application. Red cards are not acceptable documentation. Currency Requirement: Required to maintain currency once hired into the position. Currency of NWCG qualifications is not required for selection. If not currently qualified, the applicant must provide documented evidence that they have been fully qualified in the past, and are able to regain currency within one year of being hired. Failure to provide this documentation will result in disqualification.
Primary firefighter positions include the following age requirements: Under age 37 -OR- less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service worked in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position -OR- a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and is requesting a waiver to the maximum age requirement -OR-currently occupy a permanent position with primary fire fighter retirement coverage.
For those who do not currently occupy a permanent Federal position covered under primary fire fighter retirement, you must be under age 37; less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position; or a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and requesting a waiver to the requirement.
This position has been identified as (HIGH) or (MODERATE) or (LOW) Complexity under the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) or Forest Service Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) and is subject to selective placement factor requirements contained in the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) Standard and Guide when filling this vacancy. IFPM or FS-FPM selective placement factors are made up of a primary and secondary National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) core Incident Management Qualifications and Required Training. The applicant must possess these qualifications at the applicable complexity level to be considered eligible for this position.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a primary/rigorous position covered under the special retirement provisions of 5 USC 8336(c) for the Civil Service Retirement System and of 5 USC 8412(d) for the Federal Employees Retirement System.
WORK CAPACITY TEST (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the ARDUOUS, MODERATE, or LIGHT level is a condition of employment.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Education:There is no substitution of education for specialized experience.Employment Type: OTHER

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