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Forestry Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forester

Lincoln, ME · On-site

$45K - $85K/yr

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

Forester II

Chester, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

The Forester II oversees forest management of the commercial forest operated by Collins in Lassen, Plumas and Tehama counties, California. Duties/Responsibilities: * Responsible for the safe conduct ...

Forestry Technician - Elkins, WV

Oak Hill, WV · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

FORECON, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary full-service consulting forestry firm operating out of five (5) offices throughout NY, PA and WV. Our corporate headquarters is in Falconer, NY. Our clients ...

Forestry Technician

Hayward, WI · On-site

$31K - $43K/yr

POSITION: Forestry Technician JOB TYPE: Full-Term LOCATION: Hayward, WI WHO WE ARE Steigerwaldt ... Founded in 1957, Steigerwaldt is a third-generation, family owned and operated company with history ...

Forestry Technician

Hayward, WI

$31K - $43K/yr

POSITION: Forestry Technician JOB TYPE: Full-Term LOCATION: Hayward, WI WHO WE ARE Steigerwaldt ... Founded in 1957, Steigerwaldt is a third-generation, family owned and operated company with history ...

Forestry Technician

Hayward, WI · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

POSITION: Forestry Technician JOB TYPE: Full-Term LOCATION: Hayward, WI WHO WE ARE Steigerwaldt ... Founded in 1957, Steigerwaldt is a third-generation, family owned and operated company with history ...

Forestry Technician - Falconer, NY

Falconer, NY

$18 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

FORECON, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary full-service consulting forestry firm operating out of five (5) offices throughout NY, PA and WV. Our corporate headquarters is in Falconer, NY. Our clients ...

Forestry Technician - Falconer, NY

Falconer, NY

$18 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

FORECON, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary full-service consulting forestry firm operating out of five (5) offices throughout NY, PA and WV. Our corporate headquarters is in Falconer, NY. Our clients ...

Forestry Technician - Falconer, NY

Falconer, NY · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

FORECON, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary full-service consulting forestry firm operating out of five (5) offices throughout NY, PA and WV. Our corporate headquarters is in Falconer, NY. Our clients ...

Territory Sales Representative - Forestry

Brewer, ME · On-site

$45K - $48K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Work directly with forestry operators and decision-makers * Visit job sites and understand customer needs firsthand * Become a trusted advisor-not just a salesperson * Drive Growth & Earnings

Description Help keep Round Rock's urban forest healthy, safe, and beautiful. If you enjoy working ... Regular lifting (up to 100 lbs), climbing, bending, and operating equipment. Use of chainsaws ...

Forestry Field Associate

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$33K - $44K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Capital Program Forestry Field Associates are responsible for providing statewide support to the ... The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in ...

Forestry Field Associate

Marietta, GA

$32K - $44K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Capital Program Forestry Field Associates are responsible for providing statewide support to the ... The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in ...

Showing results 21-40

Forestry Operator information

See salary details

$29K

$41.5K

$53.5K

How much do forestry operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 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 a forestry operator?

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 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 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 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.

More about Forestry Operator jobs

What states have the most Forestry Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Forestry Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Forestry Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,544 per year, or $20 per hour.

$45K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Description:

Position Summary: Treeline’s Forester is an independent, highly motivated, and initiative-taking individual. He/She shall have a deep understanding of Maine’s forest-rooted businesses and be committed to continuing and growing Treeline’s reputation as an industry leader. Treeline’s Forester leads the procurement, management, and development of forestland for timber production and other uses. The Forester’s regular duties include cruising, mapping, estimating standing timber and future growth, planning, and facilitating Forest operations. Treeline’s Forester has the independence and control of an Independent Forester without the challenge of running a small business, with the added bonus of a highly capable, skilled, team of forest operators and admin support team.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Contribute to developing and maintaining a safe working environment.
  • Maintain personal safety and watch out for the safety of others.
  • Accept and appreciate fellow team member’s safety concerns and suggestions.
  • Comply with all OSHA safety guidelines.
  • Communicate with team members and customers in a positive and collaborative manner.
  • Communicate both effectively and tactfully with a wide variety of individuals in person, on the telephone and with all other communication forms.
  • Consistently maintain a positive and problem-solving attitude.
  • Work closely with, and support, Treeline’s Operation Manager regarding Treeline’s Forest Operations.
  • Understand and adhere to Treeline’s employment handbook.
  • Lead forest land procurement, long-term and short-term management.
  • Develop and execute Forest management plans.
  • Write Tree Growth plans for company-owned and client woodlands
  • Maintain Tree Growth compliance on our own lands as required by law.
  • Determine methods of cutting and removing timber with minimum waste and environmental damage.
  • Plan cutting programs and manage timber sales from harvested areas, assisting Treeline’s Operation’s Team to achieve production goals.
  • Develop NRCS forest practices contracts and oversee their completion.
  • Provide proper documentation as needed.
  • Negotiate and monitor contracts for forest harvesting, forest management, leasing of forest lands, and other related activities.
  • Monitor contract compliance to ensure adherence to regulations.
  • Invoice and ensure payments for services.
  • Supervise activities of other forestry workers.
  • Procure timber from private landowners.
  • Procure various forest products as needed.
  • Assist in road planning, design, and layout.
  • Clear and post boundaries for timber sales, buffer areas, and road rights-of-ways.
  • Oversee stumpage purchases and contracted harvesting operations.
  • Adhere to all applicable laws and regulations.
  • Provide proper documentation as needed.


Requirements:

Education Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Forestry or a related field

Experience/Skills:

  • Three or more years of experience in Forestry or a related field is preferred
  • Knowledge of theories, practices, procedures, and regulations of forest management.
  • Knowledge of logging systems.
  • Mapping skills
  • GPS systems operation and application skills
  • Knowledge of the use and maintenance of forestry equipment
  • Self-discipline to work effectively in an ethical and professional manner without direct supervision.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

  • Current or in process Professional Forester License
  • Valid Driver’s License

Physical Demands:

The employee:

  • Is frequently required to stand, walk, talk, or hear.
  • Is occasionally required to use hands and fingers to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
  • Is occasionally required to climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in outdoor weather conditions, thereby exposed to inclement weather.
  • The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts.