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Forestry Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vm West, Llc

Forestry Equipment Operator

Delta, CO · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Forestry Equipment Operator Salary Range $25.00 - $35.00 Hourly Description Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator Company: VM West, LLC. Location: Rocky Mountain Region, New Mexico/Colorado Position ...

The State of Arizona

Forestry Technician

Chino Valley, AZ

$22.98 - $25.12/hr

Forestry Technician Apply now Job No: 539070 Work Type: Full-time Location: CHINO VALLEY Categories ... Any employee operating a motor vehicle on State business must possess and retain a current, valid ...

City of Rochester (NY)

Forestry Worker

Rochester, NY · On-site

$22 - $27.71/hr

... operating heavy equipment and using a variety of power and hand tools. The incumbent receives ... Responds to questions related to forestry and other City services while performing work in the ...

Treeline, Inc.

Forester

Lincoln, ME · On-site

... team of forest operators and admin support team. Essential Duties and Responsibilities ... Supervise activities of other forestry workers. * Procure timber from private landowners. * Procure ...

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All JobsForestry Operator Jobs

Forestry Operator information

See salary details

$29K

$41.5K

$53.5K

How much do forestry operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for forestry operator in the United States is $41,544.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,500.00 and $46,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid job in forestry?

The highest paid jobs in forestry are often senior management roles such as Forest Managers or Forest Operations Directors, who oversee large-scale projects and strategic planning. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and strong leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the size of the organization and location.

Does forestry pay well?

Forestry operators typically earn wages that are competitive within the natural resources sector, with pay rates varying based on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced operators with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and seasonal work. Overall, forestry can provide a decent income, especially for those with technical skills and safety training.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Forestry operators can earn around $4,000 per week with experience, physical fitness, and proper certification, especially in remote or high-demand areas. Such roles often involve operating heavy machinery, working outdoors, and may require specialized training but typically do not require a college degree.

What is the difference between Forestry Operator vs Logging Equipment Operator?

AspectForestry OperatorLogging Equipment Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, equipment operation licensesHigh school diploma, safety certifications, equipment operation licenses
Work EnvironmentForests, logging sites, forest management areasLogging sites, forest roads, timber harvesting locations
Employer & IndustryForestry companies, government agencies, conservation organizationsLogging companies, timber harvesters, forestry contractors

Both Forestry Operators and Logging Equipment Operators require similar certifications and work in forested environments. However, Forestry Operators often oversee broader forest management tasks, while Logging Equipment Operators focus specifically on operating machinery for timber harvesting. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path in the forestry industry.

What is a forestry operator?

A forestry operator is a worker responsible for operating machinery and equipment used in forest management, logging, and timber harvesting. They often work with chainsaws, harvesters, and skidders, and may need safety certifications and knowledge of environmental regulations. The role involves physically demanding work in outdoor forest environments.

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

To thrive as a Forestry Operator, you need a solid understanding of forestry practices, machinery operation, and safety protocols, often supported by vocational training or certification. Familiarity with equipment such as harvesters, skidders, chainsaws, and GPS or GIS systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible forest operations.

What are forestry operators?

Forestry operators are skilled professionals who operate machinery and equipment to manage, harvest, and maintain forests. They play a critical role in the forestry industry by safely cutting down trees, transporting logs, and assisting with forest regeneration and conservation efforts. Their responsibilities may also include maintaining equipment, following safety regulations, and working to minimize environmental impacts. Forestry operators often work in diverse and sometimes challenging outdoor environments. They are essential in ensuring the sustainable management of forest resources.

What are some common challenges Forestry Operators face in maintaining safety on the job?

Forestry Operators often work in challenging outdoor environments with heavy machinery, steep terrain, and changing weather conditions. Ensuring safety requires constant vigilance, adherence to safety protocols, and regular maintenance of equipment. Operators must also communicate effectively with their team to manage risks, such as falling trees or equipment malfunctions, and participate in ongoing safety training to stay updated on best practices.
More about Forestry Operator jobs
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What job categories do people searching Forestry Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forestry Operator jobs are:
Forestry Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forestry Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,544 per year, or $20 per hour.
Forestry Operator - Land Clearing

Forestry Operator - Land Clearing

Benchmark Companies

Christiana, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Salary: $20-$22

Growing Middle TN company is seeking dependable heavy equipment operator for work in our field operations division. This division of our company is responsible for clearing land for industrial and residential development in the greater middle Tennessee area. We offer a steady, full-time schedule, laid back atmosphere, and growth opportunities. Applicants must have a work history of dependability and strong communication to be considered for this position.


Responsibilities for this position include safe operation of forestry equipment (skidder, feller buncher, knuckle boom) along with conventional construction equipment (Excavators, dozers, wheel loaders) with the ability to be able be trained and follow instructions on more specialized land clearing equipment. Expected average of 55 hours worked per week. Pay based on experience and skill level.


While applicants with forestry experience are encouraged to apply, so too are operators of conventional construction equipment with an interest in the forestry side. We are willing to train!
Must be a well-organized self-starter with good written and verbal communications skills and a positive attitude who takes pride in delivering quality work.


Our benefits include: - Medical insurance - Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays

Job Type: Full-time


Benefits:


  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance


Schedule:


  • Monday to Friday
  • Overtime
  • Weekends as needed


Work Location: In person