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Reforestation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Forester II

Chester, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Administer contracts and oversee contract logging operations, forest stand improvement, reforestation and road management. * Perform log quality control functions. * Work with the forestry ...

Forester II

Chester, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Administer contracts and oversee contract logging operations, forest stand improvement, reforestation and road management. * Perform log quality control functions. * Work with the forestry ...

Forester II

Chester, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Administer contracts and oversee contract logging operations, forest stand improvement, reforestation and road management. * Perform log quality control functions. * Work with the forestry ...

Projects may include habitat restoration, habitat enhancement, and reforestation. * This includes regularly driving long distances to work sites. * Help recruit, train and manage staff to ensure ...

Forester - District

Burney, CA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Collaborate with reforestation activities, including planting and site preparation * Professionally and effectively interact with the state regulatory agencies and diverse groups * Perform forestry ...

Forester - District

Westwood, CA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Collaborate with reforestation activities, including planting and site preparation * Professionally and effectively interact with the state regulatory agencies and diverse groups * Perform forestry ...

Forester - District

Sonora, CA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Collaborate with reforestation activities, including planting and site preparation * Professionally and effectively interact with the state regulatory agencies and diverse groups * Perform forestry ...

Forester - District

Burney, CA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Collaborate with reforestation activities, including planting and site preparation * Professionally and effectively interact with the state regulatory agencies and diverse groups * Perform forestry ...

Reforestation information

See California salary details

$35.5K

$65.3K

$98.2K

How much do reforestation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for reforestation in California is $65,349.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is reforestation?

Reforestation is the process of planting trees or allowing forests to regenerate naturally in areas where forests have been depleted or destroyed. This practice helps restore ecosystems, improve biodiversity, combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, and support local communities. Reforestation can involve both the planting of native tree species and the management of natural regeneration, often as part of broader conservation or land management programs.

How to get a job in reforestation?

The preferred qualifications for a job in reforestation usually include a bachelor’s degree in forestry, agriculture, or natural resources. Some employers provide on-the-job training for entry-level roles. Fulfilling your responsibilities as a reforestation forester requires physical stamina, attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work safely while traversing rough, outdoor, and often remote environments. You must be able to memorize and follow state and local guidelines for planting trees and using herbicides. Proficient computer skills and the ability to work on a team are also an asset.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a reforestation role?

To thrive in a reforestation role, you need knowledge of forestry practices, plant biology, and environmental science, often supported by a degree in forestry, environmental studies, or related fields. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, tree planting equipment, and data collection systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, physical stamina, and problem-solving skills help individuals stand out in this field. These abilities are essential for ensuring successful tree planting, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable land management.

What are some common challenges faced in reforestation roles, and how can new team members effectively address them?

Reforestation roles often involve working in remote or rugged environments, where weather conditions, terrain difficulties, and access to resources can pose significant challenges. New team members can effectively address these by being adaptable, maintaining strong communication with their team, and preparing thoroughly for fieldwork. Additionally, understanding local ecosystems and collaborating with environmental scientists or community stakeholders is crucial for successful project outcomes. Building resilience and learning from experienced colleagues will help newcomers thrive and contribute meaningfully to reforestation efforts.

What is the difference between Reforestation vs Forest Technician?

AspectReforestationForest Technician
CredentialsOften requires forestry or environmental science degrees, certifications in forestry practicesTypically requires a degree or diploma in forestry, environmental science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, forested areas, planting and restoring treesForests, research sites, fieldwork involving data collection and site assessments
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, environmental organizations, forestry companiesForestry services, government agencies, conservation groups

Reforestation involves actively planting and restoring forests to combat deforestation, while Forest Technicians assist in data collection, monitoring, and supporting forest management activities. Both roles are essential in forestry, but Reforestation focuses on planting and ecosystem restoration, whereas Forest Technicians support field assessments and data analysis.

How to work in reforestation?

To work in reforestation, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, and sometimes specialized training in forestry or environmental science. Jobs may involve planting trees, maintaining seedlings, and working outdoors in various weather conditions, often requiring safety certifications and teamwork skills.

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

The most popular types of Reforestation jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Reforestation jobs?

Cities in California with the most Reforestation job openings:

Infographic showing various Reforestation job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 14% Temporary. Highlights an 71% In-person, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,349 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Forester II

Chester, CA • On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Founded in 1855, Collins is family-owned and produces softwood and hardwood products at their facilities in Chester, California, Lakeview, Oregon and Kane, Pennsylvania. In Chester, Collins also has the Builders Supply retail hardware and building materials store. Collins is highly respected for their sustainable forest management, practiced across their 370,000 acres of FSC®-certified lands in California, Oregon, and Pennsylvania.

Position Summary:

The Forester II oversees forest management of the commercial forest operated by Collins in Lassen, Plumas and Tehama counties, California.

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for the safe conduct of logging operations on defined district within ownership.
  • Plan annual timber harvest within district.
  • Obtain approved Timber Harvesting Plans for operations within district.
  • Conduct field work associated with harvest and management of the district forests.
  • Administer contracts and oversee contract logging operations, forest stand improvement, reforestation and road management.
  • Perform log quality control functions.
  • Work with the forestry technicians and their supervisor to mark timber.
  • Implement various uneven-aged silviculture regimes including layout of Group Selection units.
  • Flag property boundaries, watercourse protection zones and other areas as needed.
  • Take a property-wide lead role by subject matter in one of the following: road construction and maintenance, herbicide application and reforestation, or fire preparedness and response.
  • Model forest growth and yield.
  • Perform additional duties as required by supervisor.
  • On-site attendance is essential to effectively perform the listed duties and responsibilities.

Required Skills and Abilities:

  • Comprehensive technical forestry skills and knowledge about mensuration, forest management, logging, silviculture, and timber harvest planning.
  • Collaborative problem-solving skills; must be comfortable with change management.
  • Proficient in Geographic Information Systems (ARC-GIS) and Microsoft 365.
  • The ability to perform rigorous, field-based work in all weather conditions, on steep, brush-filled terrain.
  • Capable of safely conducting field-based forestry work in all conditions of the northern Sierra & southern Cascade mountains.

Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in forestry, biology, forest engineering, natural resource management, economics, business, plant biology, plant genetics, or agriculture sciences. or a similar field required.
  • Hold a California Registered Professional Forester (RPF) license.
  • Chainsaw experience and general mechanical know-how, and/or experience operating light and heavy equipment.

Environmental Conditions:

May be exposed to challenging terrain, dust, noise, trip hazards, and extreme weather and temperatures.

Required Personal Protective Equipment:

Individuals must be willing to wear the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times. Positions may require additional PPE at specific times. Examples of PPE which may be required include high visibility garments, hand protection, eye protection, hearing protection, a hard hat, foot protection, a face shield, and a respirator.

Salary $85,000 - $110,000 DOE