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Forestry Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FORESTRY AIDE

Monterey, CA · On-site

$21.60 - $26.71/hr

This position will work u nder the supervision of the Senior Environmental Scientist (Supervisory) and with direction from Environmental Scientists. The Forestry Aide (seasonal) is part of a natural ...

FORESTRY AIDE

Ventura, CA · On-site

$21.60 - $26.71/hr

This position will work under the lead of the Senior Environmental Scientist (Supervisor) within the Natural Resources Division at the Channel Coast District. The Forestry Aide will assist in all ...

$25 - $30/hr

Progress toward or completion of a degree in forestry, environmental science, or related field * Experience troubleshooting basic field technology issues * Backcountry, wilderness, orienteering ...

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Forestry Scientist information

See salary details

$29K

$41.5K

$53.5K

How much do forestry scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for forestry scientist 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 does a forestry scientist do?

A Forestry Scientist studies forest ecosystems, focusing on the management, conservation, and restoration of forests and woodlands. Their work involves conducting research on tree species, soil quality, wildlife habitats, and the impact of human activities on forests. They use scientific techniques to develop sustainable forestry practices, help combat climate change, and ensure the health and productivity of forested areas. Forestry Scientists may work for government agencies, research institutions, or environmental organizations, often collaborating with other scientists and land managers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forestry scientist?

To thrive as a Forestry Scientist, you need a solid background in forestry, ecology, or environmental science, typically supported by a relevant degree and sometimes advanced study (MSc or PhD). Familiarity with GIS software, remote sensing tools, and data analysis programs is essential for research and resource management. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills help in conducting fieldwork, publishing research, and collaborating with stakeholders. These competencies are vital for advancing sustainable forest management and addressing environmental challenges effectively.

How does a forestry scientist typically collaborate with other professionals in the field?

Forestry Scientists frequently work alongside ecologists, conservationists, land managers, and government agencies to develop and implement sustainable forest management plans. Collaboration often includes conducting joint research projects, sharing data, and participating in interdisciplinary meetings to address environmental challenges. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as many projects require input from various specialists to balance ecological health with economic and social interests.

What is the difference between Forestry Scientist vs Forest Technician?

AspectForestry ScientistForest Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in forestry, environmental science, or related field; often a master's or Ph.D. for research rolesAssociate's or bachelor's degree in forestry, natural resources, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, field research sites, universities, government agenciesForests, nurseries, field sites, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, government forestry departments, environmental organizationsForestry companies, government agencies, conservation groups

Forestry Scientists focus on research, data analysis, and developing sustainable forest management practices, often requiring advanced degrees. Forest Technicians assist with fieldwork, data collection, and supporting forestry projects, typically with an associate's or bachelor's degree. Both roles are essential in forestry but differ mainly in education level, responsibilities, and work setting.

How much do forestry scientists make?

Forestry scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, with experienced professionals or those in managerial roles earning over $80,000. Salaries can vary based on education, experience, location, and the specific employer, and the job often involves fieldwork and data analysis.
More about Forestry Scientist jobs

What cities are hiring for Forestry Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Forestry Scientist job openings:

What states have the most Forestry Scientist jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Forestry Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,544 per year, or $20 per hour.

Forestry Technician (Lookout)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Butte Falls, OR • On-site

$17.82/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


USDA Forest Service rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

161st of 295 rated public sector bodies


Job description

Job Corps graduates are encouraged to apply
This position is located within a National Forest.This position is established on a Forest Service unit to provide for the detection and reporting of fires from a lookout station.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
GS-04: Applicants must have six months of general experience (any type of work that demonstrated the ability to perform the work of the position, or experience that provided a familiarity with the subject matter or processes of the broad subject area of the occupation) AND six months of specialized experience that is directly related to the work of the position; OR successful completion of 2 years of study that included at least 12 semester hours in any combination of courses such as forestry, agriculture, crop or plant science, range management or conservation, wildlife management, watershed management, soil science, natural resources (except marine fisheries and oceanography), outdoor recreation management, civil or forest engineering, or wildland fire science (no more than 3 semester hours in mathematics is creditable); OR an appropriate combination of experience and education above high school as described above. The education must have been obtained in an accredited business, secretarial or technical school, junior college, college or university and include courses that are related to the occupation of the position.
Examples of General Experience includes: Performed farm/ranch labor, such as feeding and tending livestock or general maintenance of farm/ranch facilities; Cleaned tools and equipment; Worked in a greenhouse or nursery moving, watering, and tending plants and performing other general labor; Worked on a landscape or construction crew; Other work experience, paid or unpaid, that demonstrates an ability to learn and perform the work of this position.
Examples of specialized experience include: Forestry aid or technician work. Or forest or range fire lookout, dispatch, prevention or suppression work.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.
Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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