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Independent Contractor Forestry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wiregrass Ecological Associates

Forester

Hayward, WI · On-site

This position will implement forestry and ecology work, manage clients, projects, contractors, and ... The position requires excellent organizational skills, the capability to work independently with ...

Save the Redwoods

Forest Ecologist

Mckinleyville, CA · On-site +1

Graduate degree in forestry, conservation biology, or related field (or equivalent experience ... Able to work independently and collaboratively, building productive relationships in complex ...

Save the Redwoods

Forest Ecologist

Mckinleyville, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Graduate degree in forestry, conservation biology, or related field (or equivalent experience ... Able to work independently and collaboratively, building productive relationships in complex ...

CERES

Forester I

Cameron Park, CA

$70K - $90K/yr

Independently conduct and analyze timber cruises, stand exams, and vegetation surveys; prepare ... Experience leading field crews or contractors in forestry, fuels reduction, or restoration work.

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Independent Contractor Forestry information

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How much do independent contractor forestry jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor forestry 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 an Independent Contractor Forestry job?

An Independent Contractor Forestry job involves providing forestry-related services on a contract basis rather than as a full-time employee. Contractors may perform tasks such as tree planting, timber harvesting, land management, fire prevention, or ecological restoration. They typically work with government agencies, private landowners, or forestry companies. Since they are independent, they manage their own schedules, tools, and business expenses. This role requires knowledge of forestry practices, physical stamina, and often specialized equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Independent Contractor Forestry position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor in Forestry, you need expertise in forest management practices, ecological assessment, and a degree in forestry or related field, often supplemented with field experience. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, forest inventory tools, and certifications such as SAF (Society of American Foresters) accreditation are typically important. Strong problem-solving abilities, self-direction, and effective communication skills help set top contractors apart. These competencies are crucial for ensuring effective stewardship of forest resources, regulatory compliance, and successful collaboration with clients, agencies, and other professionals.

What types of projects or clients do Independent Contractor Forestry professionals typically work with?

Independent Contractor Forestry professionals often work on diverse projects such as timber assessments, reforestation planning, habitat restoration, and environmental compliance audits. Clients can include private landowners, government agencies, timber companies, conservation organizations, and consulting firms. The variety of projects offers opportunities to gain experience in multiple facets of forestry and natural resource management. This independent role allows for flexibility in choosing projects, but also requires a proactive approach to networking and building client relationships for ongoing work.

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Independent Contractor Forestry jobs near you

Forester

Wiregrass Ecological Associates

Hayward, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Location: Northern Wisconsin/Western Upper Peninsula (exact location negotiable) 
Application Deadline: April 1, 2026, or until filled - tentative starting date is April 20, 2026

Wiregrass Ecological Associates (WEA) is seeking qualified candidates for a full-time forester position in Northern Wisconsin or the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan. This position will implement forestry and ecology work, manage clients, projects, contractors, and manage the shared stewardship goals of our partner National Deer Association (NDA) in the region.  This position will require candidates to oversee existing projects through their life cycle while coordinating with various stakeholders and landowners, especially the United States Forest Service (USFS).  In addition to forestry-related tasks, this position will include assisting fellow team members in other projects including urban tree management, red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) management, gopher tortoise relocation, and other threatened and endangered species management as time allows.  We are looking for candidates who possess a high level of intrinsic motivation and demonstrate excellent analytical skills. An ideal applicant should be flexible and adaptive to changing conditions and challenges in the field. The ability to work effectively within a team-oriented environment is essential for success in this position, as collaboration and communication are key to achieving our conservation goals. If you are passionate about forest management, conservation, and ecosystem restoration and have the qualifications we seek, we encourage you to apply.
Primary Duties:
  • Perform and oversee timber inventory/cruising, marking, and layout for appraisals, timber sales, and USFS Common Stand Exams (CSEs). 
  • Provide administrative oversight to contractors (timber sales, hand crews, road work, site preparations)
  • Conduct herbicide treatments of invasive/undesirable species, aiming to promote the health of the forest and reduce competition.
  • Assist in identifying and developing the scope for stewardship and conservation projects on the Chequamegon Nicolet National Forest and other projects which occur across various land ownerships and land uses. 
  • Assist biologists in various management activities associated with Threatened and Endangered species.
  • Flexibility to travel (sometimes extended or frequent) to other parts of the US to assist foresters and biologists in the completion of their projects, cross-training skill development, and information exchanges within a team-oriented group.  
  • Ensure accurate records and reports.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in forestry and/or wildlife science from an accredited university is preferred.
  • Minimum 3 years of practical forestry experience is preferred.
  • Preference will be given to candidates with experience in timber sale management including: 
  • Understand basic silvicultural practices and techniques.
  • Logging crew oversight.
  • Understanding/enforcing BMPs & SMZs.
  • Ability to visually determine timber products on the stump and loading deck.
  • Conducting forest surveys and tree measurements.
  • Timber marking.
  • Best Management Practices (BMP) compliance oversight.
  • Assessing potential environmental impacts of a harvest and identifying/addressing forest management challenges.
  • Demonstrated knowledge and experience with the flora, fauna, and forested ecosystems of the Midwest, is required. 
  • Preference will be given to applicants with demonstrated experience with technical writings such as NEPA reporting, biological diversity reports, or environmental impact assessments.
  • Applicants must be self-motivated, responsible, and have the ability to solve problems. The position requires excellent organizational skills, the capability to work independently with little direct supervision, networking and communication skills, and project management experience.
  • Applicant must have a valid driver's license and experience using and operating common forestry field equipment and ATVs.  
  • Candidates must be able to work in challenging field conditions, including workable hard weather conditions, insects, wildlife, and dense brush.

Salary/Benefits: Salary commensurate with experience. Benefits include Personally Assigned Vehicle, Health Insurance, Paid Holidays, Vacation Time, Sick Leave, Parental Leave, Bonus-eligible, Retirement, and Training. 
To Apply: Please send a cover letter, resume, and 3 references in a single document (PDF preferred) to jobs@wiregrasseco.com with the subject line: “Application for WI Forester”.