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Forestry Internship Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

$17 - $19/hr

... forestry, land or watershed management, recreation management, field hydrology, geology, water ... internship program. * Water laboratory experience and/or water system operation and maintenance ...

Forestry Internship information

What is the difference between Forestry Internship vs Forestry Technician?

AspectForestry InternshipForestry Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate of forestry, environmental science, or related fieldsAssociate's or bachelor's degree in forestry, environmental science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentSeasonal, educational, or training-focused; often in field settingsFull-time fieldwork and office tasks in forest management
Employer & Industry UsageEducational programs, government agencies, NGOsGovernment agencies, private forestry companies, conservation organizations

Forestry internships are primarily educational opportunities for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience, while forestry technicians are trained professionals performing ongoing forest management and conservation tasks. Internships often serve as a stepping stone to technician roles, which require more experience and formal credentials.

How to become a forestry technician with no experience?

To become a forestry technician with no experience, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should pursue relevant training or certification in forestry, environmental science, or natural resource management. Gaining hands-on experience through volunteer work, internships, or entry-level positions can also improve prospects, and developing skills in operating forestry tools and understanding ecological principles is beneficial.

What careers can you get with a forestry degree?

A forestry degree can lead to careers such as forest technician, forest manager, conservation scientist, wildlife biologist, and environmental consultant. These roles often involve fieldwork, data analysis, and environmental management, and may require knowledge of GIS tools and certifications like SAF (Society of American Foresters) credentials.

What are Forestry Internships?

Forestry internships are temporary work experiences designed for students or recent graduates interested in forest management, conservation, or environmental science. These internships typically involve hands-on activities such as tree planting, data collection, wildlife monitoring, and assisting with forest management projects. Interns gain practical experience, learn about sustainable forestry practices, and develop skills relevant to careers in forestry or natural resources. Such opportunities are valuable for networking and can often lead to full-time positions in the field.

What do forestry interns do?

Forestry interns assist with tasks such as planting, maintaining, and monitoring trees and forests, collecting data on plant health and growth, and supporting conservation efforts. They often use tools like GPS devices and may gain experience in forest management, environmental assessment, and safety protocols during their internship schedule.

What are the big 4 internships?

The 'Big 4' internships typically refer to summer internship programs offered by the four largest accounting firms: Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young (EY), and KPMG. These internships provide experience in auditing, consulting, tax, and advisory services and are highly competitive for students pursuing careers in accounting and finance, often requiring relevant coursework and professional certifications.

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

To thrive as a Forestry Intern, you need a foundational understanding of forestry principles, basic plant and tree identification skills, and enrollment in or completion of a related degree program. Familiarity with GIS software, GPS devices, and data collection tools is highly valued in this role. Strong observation skills, effective communication, and a willingness to work outdoors in varying conditions set outstanding interns apart. These skills ensure accurate fieldwork, contribute to effective team collaboration, and help interns support sustainable forest management practices.

What types of hands-on experiences can I expect during a Forestry Internship?

As a Forestry Intern, you can expect to participate in a range of hands-on activities such as tree identification, forest health assessments, data collection for research projects, and assisting with reforestation or conservation efforts. You may work both independently and as part of a team, often spending significant time outdoors in various weather conditions. These experiences are designed to develop practical field skills and give you a realistic understanding of forestry operations, which can be valuable for future career opportunities in environmental science or resource management.
What are the most commonly searched types of Forestry jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Forestry jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Forestry Internship job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Seasonal Natural Resources Worker - Forestry Health

State of Indiana

Vallonia, IN • On-site

$12.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


State Of Indiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 50 rated states


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 DNR Forestry Division:
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 promotes the planting, health, and ordinances of trees in urban areas
  • Fire Management seeks to combat and eliminate wildland fires
  • Forest Health monitors forest health and protects them from harmful insects and diseases
  • Forest Legacy provides long-term protection to important forest lands
  • Forestry Education prepares citizens to make responsible decisions about natural resource management

Salary Statement:
The hourly wage for seasonal positions varies, starting at $12.25/hour.
A Day in the Life:
The Seasonal Natural Resources Workers perform duties related to the survey, biological monitoring, and/or control of property natural resources. Seasonal Natural Resources Worker positions and their essential functions are as follows:
  • Resource Management Techs: Assists with the control of invasive plant species natural area restoration trail maintenance, brush and tree removal, signage, timber marking and/or timber stand improvement based on the property.
  • Laborers: Work to maintain and repair property buildings, grounds, and facilities. Laborers perform various duties based on property needs. Possible duties may include landscaping, mowing, firewood processing, structure maintenance, sign creation, trail upkeep, carpentry, and plumbing, based on property needs.
  • Clerks: Perform a wide variety of tasks to support property staff. Duties may include inventory, stocking, reporting, budgeting, and assisting with other administrative duties.
  • Office Assistants: Answer inquiries about the property and provide quality customer service to the park visitors. This position also assists property management with operations and administrative functions.
  • Entomology Workers (Taxonomists): sort through samples of exotic forest or tree pests of specific concern. Survey samples are collected from high risk sites to determine locations of exotic insects and pathogens in Indiana. Samples of concern are processed and forwarded to a certified taxonomist for further identification and classification.
  • Forest Worker: Assist in duties related to the survey, biological monitoring, and/or control of forestry resources.
    • Nursery Workers: Collect, weigh, test, bail, and grade seedlings for quality and use. This role also packages tree seedlings and fulfills customer orders.
  • Forestry Program Interns: Primarily conduct field inspections of forestlands and complete associated reports. Duties may include assisting with forest inventories, timber marking, educational programs, and timber stand improvement.
  • Security Officers: Monitor the activities of visitors and report problems to property management or other authorities. Security Officers patrol the property and enforce regulations in a courteous, but firm manner. This role provides security to facilities, construction sites, and logging operations as needed, including late night visits to area prone to vandalism, disturbances, and illegal activities.
  • Gate Attendants (Ferdinand State Forest Only): Provide quality customer service at assigned property station. The main responsibilities of this position the collection of revenue from fees and permits, and cash/credit card handling duties.

What You'll Need for Success:
You must meet the following requirements to be considered for employment:
  • High school diploma, GED, or one (1) year of work experience.
  • May be expected to work afternoons, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
  • May be required to wear a DNR-provided uniform.
  • May be required to travel to different properties.
  • May be required to have a valid driver's license.
  • May experience working with DOC work release crews.
  • May perform duties in a variety of different environments, including an office environment, field environment, rugged terrain, and various adverse weather conditions (extreme heat, cold, rain, snow, sleet, etc.).
  • May work around potentially dangerous heavy equipment (e.g. tractors, disks, mowers, planters, etc.).
  • Some positions may require:
    • Completion of some college coursework in wildlife management, natural resources, biology, ecology, forestry and/or related areas of study is required.
    • Ability to understand and apply through on the job training and using previous, relevant experience basic biological principals, ecological variables and interactions, plant identification, herbicide application, invasive plant management techniques (of conservation biology, the management of forests, wetlands, and prairie habitats), and life histories of invasive plants.
    • Ability to lift equipment, tools, or materials up to 50lbs.
    • Ability to sustain periods of strenuous physical activity.
    • Ability to carry out assignments with general instruction and limited supervision.
    • Able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
This seasonal position does not offer benefits and is limited to 180 working days in an eleven (11) month continuous period
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.
Current Employee? Click here to apply.

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