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Forestry Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

... forestry goals. Reporting directly to theDistrict Manager,this role plays a pivotal part in comprehensive forest management,participatingin planning, permitting, timber harvest administration, road ...

Experienced forestry graduate. Cruising timber to evaluate quality and volumes; negotiating timber contracts and developing forest management plans; marking timber and establishing harvest boundaries ...

$120 - $160/hr

Opportunity Details Out-Patient PMHNP Opportunity Grand Rapids, MI Forest View Hospital brings over 40 years of experience to the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of behavioral ...

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Forestry information

See Michigan salary details

$25.3K

$36.2K

$46.6K

How much do forestry jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for forestry in Michigan is $36,210.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,100.00 and $40,500.00 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.

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

The most popular types of Forestry jobs in Michigan are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Forestry jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Forestry job openings:

Infographic showing various Forestry job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,210 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Forester

Ironwood, MI • On-site

AMERICAN FOREST MANAGEMENT INC
Business Management Consulting • 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 4 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Join the team at American Forest Management, Inc. (AFM) as a Forester and play a key role in helping our clients achieve their forestry goals. Reporting directly to theDistrict Manager,this role plays a pivotal part in comprehensive forest management,participatingin planning, permitting, timber harvest administration, road construction, silviculture, client reporting, and budgeting.You'llalso handleadditionalduties assigned by the District and Region Manager.This isa great opportunityfor aforestry professional looking to make an impact in the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan, working primarily in Gogebic and Ontonagon counties. 

This position requires aself-starter who can take initiative in managing projects while also actively building and expandingAFM’sclientbase in the region. 

About American Forest Management, Inc.  (AFM):

Founded in 1966, American Forest Management, Inc. is a nationally recognized land and natural resource consulting firm headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. AFM provides sustainable land management, consulting, and real estate services for a diverse range of land assets - including timberland, farmland, and other privately held lands - serving landowners throughout the United States, Panama, and Costa Rica.

AFM’s team of experienced professionals works closely with clients to understand and achieve their objectives through a comprehensive suite of land management and advisory services. With 50 regionally based offices managing almost 6 million acres, AFM offers strong local expertise, while its national platform supports collaboration among multidisciplinary teams of foresters and technical specialists to manage large and complex land projects.

AFM’s services include land and wildlife management; land sales and acquisitions; forest inventory, planning, and design; growth and yield modeling; cash-flow projections; environmental and farmland services; appraisal; forest resource data management; and harvest scheduling.

Responsibilities: 

  • All aspects of fieldwork, office work, analysis, and reporting tothe landowner/client. 
  • Lead silviculture and reforestation planning, managing contracts efficiently. 
  • Perform all aspects of timber sale development, including timber marking, boundary establishment, and timber valuations. 
  • Design and secure permits for harvest unit layouts in a multifaceted regulatory landscape. 
  • Supervision of contracted services, including certifying completion of work for payment. 
  • Oversee road construction, maintenance, permitting, and contract administration. 
  • Prepare timber sale bid notices and review timber sale contracts. 
  • Collaborate in budget development and management. 
  • Utilize Geographic Information System (GIS) for effective property management. 
  • Build and expandAFM’sclient base in the region. 
  • Assist the marketing team in scaling and sales. 
  • Fulfill other assignments from the District and Region Manager. 

 

Qualifications: 

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Forestryor related field ORAssociate’s Degree in Forestry. 
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills. 
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. 
  • Proficient team player with adaptability. 
  • Capability to work in challenging field conditions. 
  • Valid Driver’s License with safe vehicle operation skills. 
  • Proficiencyin Microsoft Office tools like Word and Excel. 
  • Off-road driving skills, including ATV and snowmobiles. 
  • Soft Skills:communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, attention to detail, timemanagement,and decision-making. 

 

Work Environment: 

Fieldwork often involves solo ventures into remote forest lands reached via private unimproved roads. The working environment includes adverse weather conditions such as summer heat and winter cold and snow. Fieldwork includes walking on uneven terrain for extended periods. 

 

Salary and Benefits: 

  • Expected salarycommensuratewith experience. 
  • Unlimited personal useof a company provided vehicle 
  • Eligible for annual and new business bonus plans 
  • Paid vacations, sicktimeand holidays 
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision healthcare plans 
  • Parental Leave 
  • Short- & Long-Term Disability plans available 
  • 401(K) retirementplanwith matching company contributions 
  • Educational Assistance Reimbursement Program 

Join us in our commitment to forest management excellence and a dynamic work environment. Apply now to contribute yourexpertiseto our team! 

Why Work at AFM

For 60 years, American Forest Management has helped landowners manage, buy, sell, improve, and enjoy millions of acres of land.  At AFM, employees have the opportunity to make a real impact by helping clients unlock the full potential of their property while building lasting relationships based on trust and shared success.

We are committed to sustainable land and forest management, responsible environmental stewardship and high-quality client service. Our six core values—Integrity, Stewardship, Innovation, Dedication, Respect, and Knowledge—guide everything we do and create a culture where employees can grow, collaborate, and make meaningful contributions to both the land and the communities we serve. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or national origin.