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Outdoor Forest Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The State Forest system has experienced a significant increase in outdoor recreation over the past few years and is looking for someone to manage this program both internally with state forest staff ...

Join the vibrant team at American Forest Management, Inc. (AFM) as an Operations Forester in ... Involves working extended periods outdoors, including adverse weather conditions. * Exposure to ...

This position helps develop and carry out forest management plans with a focus on timber growth ... Working indoors and outdoors * Excessive smoke, heat, humidity, cold, wet and extreme dry ...

This position helps develop and carry out forest management plans with a focus on timber growth ... Working indoors and outdoors * Excessive smoke, heat, humidity, cold, wet and extreme dry ...

Forester

Conroe, TX · On-site

$4K/mo

Responsibilities: -Equipping NIPF landowners to make informed decisions regarding forest land ... Work is often outdoors in a harsh environment such as smoke, rough terrain, dusty roads, etc. May ...

Forester

Conroe, TX · On-site

$4K/mo

Responsibilities: -Equipping NIPF landowners to make informed decisions regarding forest land ... Work is often outdoors in a harsh environment such as smoke, rough terrain, dusty roads, etc. May ...

Forester

Scotia, CA · On-site

$72K - $84K/yr

The Mendocino Companies (Mendocino Forest Products Company, Mendocino Redwood Company, Humboldt ... Work is performed primarily outdoors in adverse weather conditions, including exposure to heat ...

Forester

Scotia, CA · On-site

$72K - $84K/yr

The Mendocino Companies (Mendocino Forest Products Company, Mendocino Redwood Company, Humboldt ... Work is performed primarily outdoors in adverse weather conditions, including exposure to heat ...

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Outdoor Forest information

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$9

$16

$21

How much do outdoor forest jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for outdoor forest in the United States is $16.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in outdoor forest roles, and how can they prepare for them?

Professionals working in outdoor forest roles often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, difficult terrain, and the need for physical endurance. They may also face situations that require quick decision-making, such as responding to wildlife encounters or navigating remote locations without immediate support. Preparation typically involves thorough training in safety protocols, proper use of equipment, and regular physical conditioning. Building strong teamwork skills is also essential, as most tasks are performed within small groups that rely on clear communication and mutual support.

What are outdoor forest jobs?

Outdoor forest jobs refer to a variety of careers focused on the management, preservation, and use of forested areas. These roles can include forestry technicians, park rangers, conservation scientists, and wildlife biologists, among others. People in these jobs typically work outdoors and are responsible for tasks such as monitoring forest health, managing resources, preventing wildfires, and supporting conservation efforts. They may work for government agencies, private companies, or non-profit organizations. These roles often require a combination of fieldwork, technical knowledge, and a passion for nature.

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

To thrive as a Forest Ranger, you need knowledge of environmental science, forestry management, and wildlife conservation, often supported by a degree in forestry or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, GPS devices, and fire management tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and physical fitness are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure effective protection and management of forest resources, safety of visitors, and conservation of natural habitats.

What is the difference between Outdoor Forest vs Outdoor Forest Technician?

AspectOutdoor ForestOutdoor Forest Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require forestry or environmental certificationsAssociate's or bachelor's degree in forestry, environmental science, or related field; certifications may include SAF or ISA
Work EnvironmentForests, national parks, conservation areas, outdoor settingsFieldwork in forests, parks, and conservation sites; often involves data collection and site assessments
Job ResponsibilitiesGeneral outdoor work, conservation, resource managementAssisting with surveys, data collection, site monitoring, and technical tasks

Outdoor Forest roles focus on general outdoor conservation and resource management, while Outdoor Forest Technicians perform more technical fieldwork, data collection, and site assessments. Both roles work in outdoor environments but differ in required education and specific responsibilities.

More about Outdoor Forest jobs
What states have the most Outdoor Forest jobs? States with the most job openings for Outdoor Forest jobs include:
Infographic showing various Outdoor Forest job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,403 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Forest Based K-1 Microschool Lead Teacher

THE VILLAGE NEST

Eliot, ME

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Paid time off
  • Competitive salary
  • Employee discounts

About Our Microschool
Our forest-based microschool is a small, learner-centered K1 program rooted in outdoor education, play-based learning, and developmental appropriateness. We believe children learn best through meaningful experiences, curiosity, and strong relationshipswith each other, with educators, and with the natural world. Our program prioritizes joy, wonder, emotional growth, and foundational academic skills in a supportive, nature-rich environment.
Position Overview
The Lead Teacher designs and facilitates a developmentally appropriate, forest-based learning experience for a mixed-age group of kindergarten and first-grade students. This role is responsible for ensuring that children are supported in meeting the Maine State Learning and Development Milestones and that learning is documented to parents and through individual student portfolios for state development credit.
Key Responsibilities
Curriculum & Instruction
  • Design and implement an emergent, play-based, and inquiry-driven curriculum aligned with K1 developmental and academic goals
  • Integrate literacy, numeracy, science, and social-emotional learning into outdoor, hands-on experiences
  • Use observation and documentation to assess student growth and guide instruction
  • Differentiate learning experiences to meet the needs of individual students
Assessment, Documentation & Portfolios
  • Maintain individual student portfolios, particularly for children ages 6 and older
  • Document learning using work samples, photographs, narrative observations, and milestone alignment
  • Prepare and manage documentation required for Maine state development credit
  • Communicate assessment progress and portfolio outcomes with families
Outdoor & Forest School Leadership
  • Lead daily learning experiences primarily outdoors in varied weather conditions
  • Establish and maintain safety protocols, routines, and risk-aware practices
  • Foster respect for nature, stewardship, and ecological awareness
  • Model curiosity, resilience, and problem-solving in outdoor settings
Classroom & Community Culture
  • Build strong, trusting relationships with students and families
  • Create a warm, inclusive, and emotionally safe learning environment
  • Support social development, conflict resolution, and self-regulation skills
  • Communicate regularly with families through conferences, documentation, and updates
Program Collaboration & Operations
  • Collaborate with assistants, co-teachers, or program directors as needed
  • Participate in planning meetings, professional development, and program events
  • Support daily logistics such as attendance, supplies, and transitions
  • Maintain required documentation and licensing or program standards (if applicable)
Qualifications
Required
  • 3+ years of experience teaching or working with early elementary-aged children (K1)
  • Strong understanding of child development and play-based learning
  • Demonstrated ability to align instruction with state learning standards or milestones
  • Comfort working outdoors year-round in a forest or natural setting
  • Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
  • Ability to lead a small group with confidence, warmth, and flexibility
Preferred
  • Valid Maine Teachers License (preferred but not required)
  • Bachelors degree in Education, Early Childhood Education, Environmental Education, or related field
  • Experience with forest school, outdoor education, Reggio-inspired, Montessori, or progressive education models
  • First Aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain)
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is joyful, adaptable, and deeply committed to honoring childhood. They value curiosity over compliance, understand that learning is not confined to four walls, and see nature as a co-teacher. They are confident translating rich, outdoor learning experiences into meaningful documentation aligned with Maine expectations and thrive in small, relationship-driven learning environments. They are comfortable with muddy boots, big questions, and the unpredictability of working with young children outdoors.
To apply please submit:
  • Resume
  • Brief cover letter describing your K1 teaching experience and approach to outdoor or experiential learning
  • [Optional] Sample lesson plan, documentation, or portfolio artifact