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Forestry Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Department of Parks & Recreation

FORESTRY AIDE

Monterey, CA · On-site

$21.60 - $26.71/hr

FORESTRY AIDE - MONTEREY DISTRICT / NATURAL RESOURCES "Priority consideration will be given to any person receiving State public assistance under the CalWORKs program. Applicants who receive State ...

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Forestry information

See California salary details

$28.6K

$41K

$52.8K

How much do forestry jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for forestry in California is $41,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $45,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are forestry jobs?

If you work in a forestry career, your primary duties depend on your area of specialization. Forestry professionals include foresters, loggers, firefighters, and forest rangers. If you have a degree in forestry, land management, or a related subject, you may work in conservation or forestry management or serve as a policy advisor or project manager for forest preservation and rehabilitation efforts. Arborists, naturalists specializing in the forest habitat, and botanists may also work in forestry. Colleges offer associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in forestry. These degrees give you a wide range of knowledge about different forestry subjects.

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

To thrive as a Forester, you need a solid background in environmental science, forestry management, and ecology, generally with a bachelor’s degree in forestry or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, forest inventory tools, and sometimes certification from organizations like the Society of American Foresters are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help foresters navigate complex land management issues and collaborate with stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for ensuring sustainable forest management, regulatory compliance, and effective conservation outcomes.

What are some common challenges forestry professionals face when working in the field, and how can they prepare for them?

Forestry professionals often encounter challenges such as navigating remote or rugged terrain, unpredictable weather conditions, and ensuring personal safety while using specialized equipment. To prepare, it's important to have proper training in outdoor survival, first aid, and equipment handling. Building strong teamwork and communication skills is also essential, as forestry work frequently involves collaborating with colleagues, landowners, and regulatory agencies to manage and conserve forest resources effectively.

What is the difference between Forestry vs Arborist?

AspectForestryArborist
CredentialsForestry degree, certifications like SAFArborist certification (ISA), horticultural knowledge
Work EnvironmentForests, land management sitesUrban and suburban trees, parks, private properties
Industry UsageNatural resource management, conservationTree care, pruning, removal services

Forestry involves managing large-scale forest ecosystems, focusing on conservation, resource management, and land use planning. Arborists specialize in the care and maintenance of individual trees, often working in urban settings. While both roles require knowledge of trees, forestry emphasizes ecosystem management, whereas arborists focus on tree health and safety in developed areas.

What are careers in forestry?

Careers in forestry include roles such as foresters, forest technicians, and conservation scientists who manage and protect forest ecosystems. These jobs often require knowledge of ecology, environmental regulations, and the use of tools like GIS software, with some positions requiring relevant certifications or degrees in forestry or environmental science.

What forestry jobs pay the most?

In forestry, senior roles such as forest managers, consulting arborists, and environmental directors tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Specialized positions requiring advanced certifications, technical skills, and experience in sustainable management or consulting typically offer higher pay compared to entry-level roles like field technicians or laborers.

What qualifications do I need for forestry?

Forestry professionals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many positions requiring a bachelor's degree in forestry, environmental science, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of ecology, use of forestry tools and equipment, and sometimes certification in safety or specific techniques; some roles may also require physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
More about Forestry jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Forestry jobs in California?

The most popular types of Forestry jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Forestry jobs in California?

For Forestry jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forestry jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Forestry jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Forestry jobs?

Cities in California with the most Forestry job openings:

Forestry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forestry job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% 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 $41,000 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Forestry and Fire Student Assistant

Feather River College

Quincy, CA • On-site

$35K - $37K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Classification Information
Classification Title
Classification Code
Rank
Position Information
Position Title
Forestry and Fire Student Assistant
Posiition Number
STSS23
Tenure Information
Job Description
In this position students will work with the Forest Health and Fuels Heath Coordinator to monitor and manage the campus forest to support ongoing forest health and fire safety objectives. Students will measure forest and fuels characteristics, maintain forestry and fire equipment, build piles and fireline, assist in pile and potentially prescribed broadcast burning, and other related duties. May assist in campus forest data collection and management.
Required Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
Compliance Physical Characteristics
Physical Characteristics
• Ability to move heavy logs (50lbs).
• Must be able to walk outside on uneven ground while carrying heavy equipment.
Salary Range
Minimum Qualifications
Enrolled in a minimum of 6 units in corresponding semester. Must present appropriate documentation that establishes identity and employment authorization.
Hourly Rate
Minimum Wage
Desirable Qualifications
Essential Duties
• Students will measure forest and fuels characteristics
• Maintain forestry and fire equipment
• Build piles and fireline, assist in pile and potentially prescribed broadcast burning
• Data collection and management
• Other related duties
• Hike on uneven ground in the forest and use forestry tools, as well as chainsaws, and other fire tools
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
Is there an approved budget for this position?
Position End Date (if temporary)
Open Date
Close Date
Open Until Filled
No
Special Instructions to Applicants
Advertising Sources
Advertising Summary

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