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Forester Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

State of Indiana

Forester

Martinsville, IN · On-site

$42K/yr

Urban Forestry, Fire Management, Forest Health, Forest Legacy, and Forestry Education. The Morgan-Monroe State Forest encompasses more than 25,000 acres. It is forested with some of the state ...

State of Indiana

Forester

Martinsville, IN

$42K/yr

Urban Forestry, Fire Management, Forest Health, Forest Legacy, and Forestry Education. The Morgan-Monroe State Forest encompasses more than 25,000 acres. It is forested with some of the state ...

IPL (Indiana)

Utility Forester

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Under general supervision, the Utility Forester supports AES Indiana's vegetation management program by conducting field inspections, auditing line-clearance work, coordinating customer notifications ...

The AES Corporation

Utility Forester

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Under general supervision, the Utility Forester supports AES Indiana's vegetation management program by conducting field inspections, auditing line-clearance work, coordinating customer notifications ...

Eocene Environmental Group

Degree in Forestry, Arboriculture, Environmental Science, or related field, or equivalent experience in utility line clearance * Ability to obtain ISA Arborist Certification within 1 year of start ...

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Forester information

See Indiana salary details

$34.3K

$63K

$94.7K

How much do forester jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for forester in Indiana is $63,009.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,200.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forester?

Foresters are tasked with the management of forests and timber, helping to preserve them for years to come. As a forester, your duties revolve around the planning, preservation, and ongoing maintenance of these forests, whether intended for public or private use. Depending on your position, you may be responsible for protecting wildlife areas that already exist within the forest or work to create new habitats for a variety of wildlife species and plant life. Foresters coordinate with many other specialists such as biologists, geologists, and soil experts, as forest conservation is not a job you can accomplish alone.

What are some common challenges a forester faces when balancing conservation goals with timber production?

Foresters frequently navigate the challenge of meeting timber harvest targets while ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of forest ecosystems. This involves carefully planning harvest schedules, implementing best management practices to minimize environmental impact, and collaborating with stakeholders such as landowners, wildlife biologists, and regulatory agencies. Balancing these priorities can require creative problem-solving and a strong understanding of both ecological processes and industry regulations. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial for successfully addressing competing interests and achieving both economic and conservation objectives.

What is the difference between Forester vs Forest Technician?

AspectForesterForest Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in forestry or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in forestry
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, planning, management of forest resourcesFieldwork, data collection, assisting foresters
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, private forestry companies, conservation organizationsGovernment agencies, research institutions, consulting firms

Foresters typically hold a bachelor's degree and are responsible for managing forest resources, planning timber harvests, and conservation efforts. Forest Technicians usually have an associate's degree and assist foresters with data collection, surveying, and fieldwork. Both roles work closely in forestry projects, but foresters have more advanced responsibilities and decision-making authority.

Is being a forester a good career?

A career as a forester involves managing and conserving forests, often requiring knowledge of ecology, GIS tools, and certification such as the SAF credential. It offers opportunities in environmental management, resource planning, and outdoor work, with employment prospects varying by region and industry demand.

What does a forester do for a job?

A forester manages and conserves forests by planning and implementing activities such as planting, harvesting, and maintaining trees. They assess forest health, use tools like GPS and GIS, and often work outdoors in various weather conditions to ensure sustainable forest management.
More about Forester jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Forester jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Forester jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Forester jobs in Indiana?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Forester jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Forester jobs in IN?

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

Forester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forester job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,009 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Forester

Martinsville, IN • On-site

State of Indiana
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 189 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 50 rated states

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers

Learn more about State of Indianaexternal

$42K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Work for Indiana
Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.
About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR):
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources protects, enhances, preserves, and wisely uses natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education. The Division of Forestry promotes and practices good stewardship of natural, recreational, and cultural resources on Indiana's public and private forest lands. This stewardship produces continuing benefits, both tangible and intangible, for present and future generations. Some key initiatives of the forestry program include: Urban Forestry, Fire Management, Forest Health, Forest Legacy, and Forestry Education.
The Morgan-Monroe State Forest encompasses more than 25,000 acres. It is forested with some of the state's finest hardwoods. The original settlers of the area cleared and attempted to farm the ridges but were frustrated by the rocky soil that was unsuitable for agriculture. The state purchased the eroded, abandoned land in 1929 to create Morgan-Monroe State Forest. Activities include camping, gold panning, hiking, hunting, and picnicking. Other features include the Draper Cabin, a 100-year-old cabin renovated to modern standards, and the Cherry Lake Lodge. Both are available for reservation.
Role Overview:
This position assists with the logging crew operation at state properties, from marking timber to operating equipment. The role will also be responsible for forest resource management. The candidate must be, or be willing to become Red Card certified, and a Forester degree is required.
Salary:
The salary for this position traditionally starts at $42,900.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.
A Day in the Life:
The essential functions of this role are as follows:
  • You will collect technical forest resource data on state managed lands, private property, and/or urban areas.
  • You will analyzes resource data an develop plans and reports including inventory summaries, resource management guides, and practice plans for invasive control, timber stand improvement, tree planting, and prescribed burns.
  • You will implement forestry practices and programs which may involve federal, state, and local agencies and private individuals/ businesses.
  • You will establish and maintain public relations with landowners, communities, organizations, wood using industries and the public.
  • You will conduct educational programs and develops educational materials for public.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.
This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.
What You'll Need for Success:
Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:
  • Working knowledge of forestry tools and equipment (data recorder, laser, increment borer, compass, clinometer, etc.
  • Working knowledge of the principles, theories, and practices of forest resources management.
  • Working knowledge of tree and herbaceous plant identification, fire behavior and suppression.
  • Ability to inspect and develop management recommendations for rural and urban forests.
  • Basic knowledge of surveying.
  • Basic knowledge of equipment operation and maintenance.
  • Basic knowledge of computer operation, Microsoft Office Suite, and ArcGIS.

A degree is not required.
Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
You must satisfy the following requirement to continue employment:
  • Obtain and retain pesticide applicator's license within the first year of employment and maintain.
  • Obtain and retain a valid Indiana driver's license
  • Successfully complete chainsaw training course within the first year of employment.
  • Successfully complete basic wildland fire courses (red card certified) and prescribed burning course within the first two years of employment.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.
Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:
  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
  • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
  • 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:
The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.
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