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Forestry Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

MNL

Tractor/Equipment Operator

Otsego, MN · On-site

$30/hr

Perform forestry mowing using skid steers and attachments during winter months. * Safely operate a ... Demonstrated experience and confidence operating tractors for extended mowing assignments on large ...

MNL

Construction Equipment Operator

Otsego, MN · On-site

$30/hr

... and forestry work. We operate across Minnesota and the Midwest, turning technical plans into ... The Opportunity We are looking for an experienced Equipment Operator to join our growing ...

Express Employment

CNC Machinist

Wyoming, MN

$26 - $32/hr

... Forest Lake is seeking skilled and motivated CNC Machinists for a growing precision manufacturing ... Ideal candidates will have experience setting up, operating, and troubleshooting CNC equipment ...

City of Blaine

Public Service Worker

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$33.90 - $41.67/hr

Previous experience with municipal urban forestry/vegetation code inspections. Operating computers and applicable software applications. Applying communication, interpersonal skills as applied to ...

GB Packaging

Machine Operator

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

... forestry resources, with a focus on safety, sustainability, quality, and continuous improvement. For more information about Green Bay Packaging Inc., visit gbp.com. Equal Opportunity Employer This ...

Forest Lake Ace Hardware

Sales Associate

Forest Lake, MN

$14 - $19/hr

Forest Lake Ace Hardware is an independently owned and operated Co-op.General SummaryThe Sales Associate will assist in the receiving, stocking, pricing of all merchandise and help maintain a clean ...

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All JobsForestry Operator JobsForestry Operator Jobs in Minnesota

Forestry Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$28.4K

$40.7K

$52.4K

How much do forestry operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for forestry operator in Minnesota is $40,689.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,800.00 and $45,500.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Forestry Operator jobs in Minnesota? For Forestry Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forestry Operator jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Forestry Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
Forestry Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forestry Operator job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,689 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Forestry Inventory Technician

Forestry Inventory Technician

The Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa

Cloquet, MN • On-site

$22.34 - $25.13/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Division/Department: Resource Management/Forestry
Location: Fond du Lac Resource Management and Tribal Court Building - Onsite
Reports To: Fond du Lac Forester
Probationary Period: 90 days - Full time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (hourly)
Classification: Child-Related CA
Driver's License: Level 2 - Driver's License Required.
Rate of Pay: $22.34 to $25.13 hourly

The Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, Nagaajiwanaang (Where the water stops), is one of the six Bands of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe and a proud sovereign Ojibwe nation. We strive to be a diverse, supportive, and inclusive workforce that employs Fond du Lac Band members, native peoples, and those from our surrounding communities.  

As one of Carlton County's largest employers, the Fond du Lac Band is dedicated to elevating the community through a broad spectrum of programs and enterprises including our gaming facilities, tribal government, health services, and education that promotes our language, culture, and the preservation of our natural resources. 

The Fond du Lac Band is an employer that cultivates the growth of our employees and our programs; a place where you can develop your skills and gain experience that will positively impact the lives of those who call the Fond du Lac Band home.  Our hiring practices follow tribal employment rights outlined in Fond du Lac Ordinance #12/94 (TERO).   

Join the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa in our mission to preserve and promote our community while contributing to its vibrant future. 

  • Valid Class D Driver's License issued in the US is required. 
  • Eligibility determined  by FDL's insurance requirements.
  • AA/ AS degree in forestry, natural resource management, botany, environmental science, or a closely related field is required. 
  • One year experience with ArcGIS software experience (version 9.x or higher) is required.
  • GIS Certified or applicable GIS coursework is desired. 
  • Experience and/or education in the area of forest inventory including using equipment such as a compass, prism, GPS unit, diameter tape, increment borer, etc is required.
  • Knowledge of computer applications including the Microsoft Office suite (MS Word, Access, Excel, and Outlook).
  • Demonstrated ability to identify regional trees, shrubs, and plants in all growth stages, including the ability to identify trees and shrubs in leaf-on and leaf-off conditions is required. Ability can be demonstrated with the completion of related post secondary courses such as botany, dendrology, or other related classes or by the completion of a plant identification proficiency test. 
  • Candidates will be responsible for providing their own clothing and field gear. 
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing is required. 
  • Ability to work independently and establish priorities is required. 
  • Attention to detail and accuracy is required. 
  • Ability to establish professional and harmonious working relationships on all projects and with all parties involved. 
  • Subject to drug and alcohol testing in accordance with the Fond du Lac Reservation's Personnel Policies.
  • Subject to pre-employment and annual background checks. 
  • Subject to immunization review and submitted proof of required vaccinations.
  • Travel is required.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds is required.
  • Walking over uneven terrain, standing, running, bending, stooping, climbing, pushing, and pulling for long periods of time. 
  • Moderate risks encountered in walking over rough terrain, and the loading, unloading and transportation of forestry equipment and machinery. 
  • Risks include snake or insect bites and stings, exposure to excessive machinery noise, and falling and rolling material.
  • Subject to inside and outside environmental conditions, including work in adverse weather conditions.
  • Conduct forest stand exams to update forest inventory records, timber sales, forest development projects, timber trespass, and for realty appraisals. 
  • Delineate and map native plant communities (using the MN DNR system) in the field and on Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
  • Responsible for data entry into forest inventory database software, volume calculation software, and GIS updates using ArcMap software.
  • Digitize and update stand boundaries, native plant community boundaries, trail layers, and other GIS layers.
  • Forest inventory, native plant community mapping, and data entry must be done accurately and in a timely manner. 
  • Responsible for keeping equipment assigned to the Forestry Technician in good operating order.
  • Appropriate work attire is required. 
  • Must attend all mandatory department trainings.
  • Ensures confidentiality of financial records and all records for employees and/or clients.
  • Displays a responsive and professional manner in promptly responding to all requests, complaints, and problems. 
  • Recognizes that each employee is a representative of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and is responsible for demonstrating courtesy, respect, and sensitivity to the needs of all others, including visitors and co-workers.
  • Represents the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and the department in a positive and professional manner in the community.
  • Required to maintain proper attendance including reporting to work on time in accordance with applicable policies.
  • Maintains a clean and organized work area.
  • Due to changes and modifications in the job from time to time, employees are required to be flexible and assume other responsibilities assigned by management as deemed necessary.

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