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Local Forestry Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

City of Key West, FL

URBAN FORESTRY MANAGER

Key West, FL · On-site

$91K - $118K/yr

Researches information for federal, state and local environmental grants as required in ... Ability to plan and develop forestry and horticultural programs. * Ability to enforce ordinances ...

City of Key West, FL

URBAN FORESTRY MANAGER

Key West, FL · On-site

$91K - $118K/yr

Researches information for federal, state and local environmental grants as required in ... Ability to plan and develop forestry and horticultural programs. * Ability to enforce ordinances ...

ACRT, Inc.

Forestry Specialist (FT)

Tampa, FL · On-site

$31K - $41K/yr

Our Forestry Specialist position is ideal for seasoned professionals with an educational background ... local law. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please ...

ACRT, Inc.

Forestry Specialist (FT)

Orlando, FL · On-site

$32K - $43K/yr

Our Forestry Specialist position is ideal for seasoned professionals with an educational background ... local law. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please ...

ACRT, Inc.

Forestry Specialist (FT)

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

$33K - $44K/yr

Our Forestry Specialist position is ideal for seasoned professionals with an educational background ... local law. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please ...

MyFlorida

FORESTER - 42003361

Santa Rosa Beach, FL

$51K - $62K/yr

A bachelor's (4 years) and/or master's (6 years) degree in Forestry or a related field from a ... Provides local schools with information and conducts periodic field trips for environmental ...

MyFlorida

FORESTER - 42005980

Southport, FL · On-site

$51K - $62K/yr

A bachelor's (4 years) and/or master's (6 years) degree in Forestry or a related field from a ... Provides local schools with information and conducts periodic field trips for environmental ...

The State of Arizona

Forester

Orange Park, FL

$21.14 - $29.50/hr

Forestry/Wildland Fire/Natural Resources DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY AND FIRE MANAGEMENT In partnership with local, county, state, and federal agencies, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire ...

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All JobsLocal Forestry JobsLocal Forestry Jobs in Florida

Local Forestry information

See Florida salary details

$23.1K

$34K

$45.5K

How much do local forestry jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for local forestry in Florida is $34,043.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,400.00 and $37,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is local forestry?

Local forestry refers to the management, conservation, and restoration of forests at a community or regional level. Professionals in local forestry work to maintain healthy forest ecosystems, support biodiversity, and ensure sustainable use of forest resources. Their responsibilities may include managing public woodlands, advising landowners, fighting forest pests and diseases, and educating the public about forest conservation. Local forestry plays a crucial role in environmental protection, climate regulation, and supporting local economies.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in local forestry roles?

Professionals in local forestry often face challenges such as balancing conservation efforts with the needs of the community, managing invasive species, and responding to environmental threats like wildfires or disease outbreaks. The role also involves working outdoors in varying weather conditions and sometimes performing physically demanding tasks. Additionally, collaborating with stakeholders—such as landowners, government agencies, and local residents—to develop sustainable management plans is a key part of the job, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in local forestry, and why are they important?

To thrive in Local Forestry, you need knowledge of environmental science, forestry management practices, and usually a degree in forestry or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, chainsaws, GPS devices, and relevant safety certifications is often required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills distinguish top professionals in this role. These skills ensure the sustainable management of forest resources, safety in field operations, and successful collaboration with stakeholders and the community.

What is the difference between Local Forestry vs Forest Technician?

AspectLocal ForestryForest Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in forestry, environmental science, or related fieldUsually requires an associate's degree or relevant certification in forestry or natural resources
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in forests, parks, and conservation areas; community engagementFieldwork and data collection in forested areas; assisting with forest management tasks
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, conservation organizations, forestry companiesForestry services, government agencies, environmental consulting firms

Both roles involve working outdoors in forested environments, but Local Forestry often encompasses broader community and conservation efforts, while Forest Technicians focus more on technical data collection and supporting forest management activities.

Can you work in local forestry without a degree?

Many entry-level positions in local forestry, such as forest technician or laborer, do not require a college degree and often prioritize relevant skills, physical fitness, and certifications like OSHA safety training. However, higher-level roles or specialized positions may require a degree in forestry, environmental science, or related fields. Practical experience and knowledge of tools like GPS or GIS can also be valuable for employment in this field.

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

The most popular types of Forestry jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Local Forestry jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Local Forestry job openings:

Local Forestry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Local Forestry job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,043 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

URBAN FORESTRY MANAGER

City of Key West, FL

Key West, FL • On-site

$91K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description


PLANNING DEPARTMENT
Compensation Details:
  • GRADE: 30N
  • SALARY RANGE: $91,157 - $118,504

Performs advanced managerial, supervisory, and administrative work in the field of arboriculture and horticulture. Responsible for planning, developing, managing, and monitoring the City's Urban Forestry program, with a focus on balancing environmental sustainability, economic value, and storm resilience. Duties include conducting assessments and studies; developing and implementing policies, procedures, and recommendations; and supervising the work of clerical staff and field maintenance crews. The position requires close collaboration with Growth Management, Code Compliance, Legal, and other City departments, as well as providing public education to support the enforcement of ordinances and regulations governing the planting, maintenance, protection, and removal of trees and vegetation on public and, when applicable, private property. Serves as professional staff to the City Tree Commission and as a member of the City's Development Review Committee. Provides support to the Sustainability Coordinator, Utilities, Engineering, and Building Departments. Additionally, serves as a safety officer during routine operations and emergency response situations
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Without Accommodations):
  • Able to read, write, speak and understand English in order to perform the duties of this job description.
  • Able to work a forty (40) hour work week and additional hours as required.
  • Able to use equipment and/or materials as specified.

EQUIPMENT TO BE USED:
  • Landscape tools, garden equipment, and backhoe as required for training purposes when assisting Urban Forestry field crew and Community Services personnel.
  • Computer and related software
  • Pickup truck for transporting tools and plant and tree specimens.

ENVIRONMENT:
  • Inside air-conditioned office and outside for inspection purposes.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT:
  • Sitting 15%
  • Standing 25%
  • Walking 30%
  • Bending 10%
  • Reaching 10%
  • Walking %

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification.
  • Directs the planting, pruning, cutting feeding, care and maintenance of trees, shrubs and other plant matter on City owned property.
  • Establishes schedules and methods for providing urban forestry services; identifies resource needs; coordinates with Growth Management, Community Services, Code Compliance and other appropriate departments.
  • Provides professional staffing support to the Tree Commission by preparing technical reports and other data and analysis; onboards all incoming Tree Commissioners.
  • Processes and issues permits in accordance with City code and verifies compliance to issued permits.
  • Confers with architects, developers, contractors, utilities, city department directors, engineers, arborists, landscape contractors and private citizens to discuss the requirements of the City landscape ordinances with Regulations; require the submittal of landscape and planting plans by a registered Landscape Architect.
  • Reviews all projects with site plans for compliance with Landscape Ordinances in conjunction with Planners.
  • Develops ordinances, regulations and policies relating to arboricultural, horticultural and urban forestry practices and programs in collaboration with the Growth Management and the Legal Departments
  • Manages, coordinates and/or provides various presentations regarding specific tree programs, i.e., Heritage Tree Program, Beautification Program, Arbor Day, Earth Day, Ambassador Program and safety programs to City Staff (tree crews, public works, utilities, and the general public). This includes proper use of equipment and techniques.
  • Advocates for National Champion and Florida Champion tree proliferation
  • Conducts studies include tree analyses, canopy analyses, vegetation classification, mapping, etc.
  • Evaluates bid proposals for City capital improvement projects to ensure compliance with the landscape ordinance.
  • Evaluates Urban Forestry programs for effectiveness, quality assurance and accomplishment of goals.
  • Researches information for federal, state and local environmental grants as required in collaboration with the Growth Management Department.
  • Writes contract specifications and standards for the purchase of plant materials, primarily trees
  • Responsible for direct supervision of clerical/administrative support person and field crew(s).
  • Develops annual Tree Commission budget and monitors expenditures; this includes capital outlay
  • Reviews building permits for arboriculture compliance with the city ordinance.
  • Writes reports for the native lands' areas to appropriate State and Federal agencies. Helps manage and maintain properties for public use through reporting.
  • Reviews and pursues grant opportunities to achieve urban forestry goals in conjunction with City Manager's and City's Senior Grant Administrator.
  • Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Thorough knowledge of the modern principles, practices and techniques of urban arboriculture and horticulture; good knowledge of the practices, tools, terminology, equipment and materials used in tree and shrub planting, maintenance, and removal.
  • Ability to plan and develop forestry and horticultural programs.
  • Ability to enforce ordinances and regulations in a firm, yet tactful manner while working in concert with Code Compliance department when required.
  • Ability to work effectively with the public, private arboriculture entities, and City Staff; establish cooperative working relationships.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
  • Knowledge and familiarity of the vegetation found in growing zones 10 & 11 and the tropical Caribbean.
  • Knowledge of budgeting and purchasing functions.
  • Ability to resolve complex problems or situations requiring the exercise of good judgment.
  • Ability to compile analytical reports and papers on Urban Forestry/arboricultural issues.
  • Knowledge of facilities, maintenance and emergency maintenance operations.
  • Ability to utilize personal and networked computers and knowledge of related software.
  • Ability to plan, direct and supervise staff in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.
  • Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English to perform job duties.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, humidity, rain, and exposure to insects and uneven terrain.
  • Ability to operate tools, equipment, and computers as required.
  • Ability to operate a motor vehicle in the performance of assigned duties.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Supervisory experience of Urban Forestry personnel and field crews or comparable organizational setting.
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Botany, Biology, Environmental Science, Urban Forestry, Horticulture, or Arboriculture.
  • Five (5) years of forestry, environmental, or arboriculture experience, two (2) years of which were in a supervisory/managerial capacity.
  • International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist designation or ability to obtain within 6 months.
  • Ability to work a standard forty (40) hour workweek and additional hours as required, including emergency response situations.
  • Ability to respond to emergency and disaster situations as required.
  • Possess and maintain a valid Florida driver's license.

About Us
In Key West, we are fortunate to live and work on a beautiful island that celebrates and honors our local heritage and cultural identity. We are proud of our core value that all people are created equal members of one human family.
Our City Manager responds to the needs of the public and staff by proactively seeking feedback while acting as a liaison among the various departments of the government, the citizens of Key West and the city commission.
We are thankful to our elected officials, visitors and residents who prove on a daily basis how important our job is to help lead the City of Key West towards a stronger and more resilient island. We look forward to you joining our team!

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