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Timber Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Service Technician Timber Ridge - Davenport, IA WHO WE ARE: Woda Cooper Companies, Inc is a rapidly growing development, construction, and property management organization dedicated to the creation ...

PE - Structural Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$30 - $40/hr

... timber design, masonry design, seismic design, and foundation design for both vertical and lateral ... Familiar with PE Structural examination format and common challenges such as managing the breadth ...

... timber design, masonry design, seismic design, and foundation design for both vertical and lateral ... Familiar with PE Structural examination format and common challenges such as managing the breadth ...

Timber Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$23K

$55.9K

$109K

How much do timber manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for timber manager in Iowa is $55,910.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,400.00 and $64,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Timber Manager, you need expertise in forestry management, timber harvesting practices, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a degree in forestry or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, forest inventory systems, and sustainable forest certification standards is typically required. Strong leadership, negotiation, and problem-solving skills help manage teams, coordinate with contractors, and address environmental challenges. These abilities ensure the responsible management of forest resources, legal compliance, and the long-term profitability of timber operations.

What does a timber manager do?

A Timber Manager oversees the management, harvesting, and sale of timber resources from forests or plantations. Their responsibilities include planning sustainable logging operations, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, negotiating contracts with buyers, and monitoring forest health. They work closely with forestry professionals, landowners, and government agencies to balance economic goals with conservation. The role requires strong knowledge of forestry practices, environmental laws, and resource management.

What are some common challenges timber managers face when balancing sustainable forestry practices with production targets?

Timber Managers often need to strike a balance between meeting production targets and maintaining sustainable forestry practices. This can involve navigating regulatory requirements, implementing best practices for forest regeneration, and minimizing environmental impact while ensuring profitability. Effective communication with stakeholders, including landowners, contractors, and regulatory bodies, is essential to address these challenges. Staying updated on sustainable technologies and certification standards also helps Timber Managers adapt to evolving industry expectations.

What is the difference between Timber Manager vs Forest Technician?

AspectTimber ManagerForest Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in forestry or related field, often with certifications in forest managementUsually requires an associate's or bachelor's degree in forestry or environmental science
Work EnvironmentOversees timber harvesting operations, manages forest resources, and coordinates with logging crewsAssists in forest surveys, data collection, and monitoring forest health in the field
Employer & IndustryEmployed by timber companies, forest management firms, or government agenciesWorks for forestry services, environmental agencies, or consulting firms

In summary, a Timber Manager focuses on overseeing timber operations and managing forest resources, requiring more experience and higher-level certifications. A Forest Technician supports fieldwork, data collection, and monitoring, often with entry to mid-level education. Both roles are essential in forest management but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

Infographic showing various Timber Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,910 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Bridge & Building Carpenter

Union Pacific

Mason City, IA

$33.78/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New


Union Pacific rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 94 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 64 rated delivery companies


Job description

Reference Number:  5010 
Department: Engineering 
Closing Date:  Apply early as this job may be filled at any time.
Rate of Pay: $33.78/ Hourly
*Most communications will be done electronically.  Please check email, including spam folders, daily.

If you wish to solicit an employee referral for this position, please ensure the employee submits the referral prior to submitting your application.

Description

Join a team of Bridge & Building Carpenters with a record of repairing railroad infrastructure for Union Pacific over 150 years! Bridge and building carpenters perform carpentry work related to the construction, maintenance, and repair of bridges and buildings, as assigned under the supervision of a foreman. By repairing our bridge structures, you'll enable Union Pacific to move trains safely and efficiently to serve its customers throughout North America! We are powered by our people, will you join our team?

Accountabilities
  • Complete the following tasks:

    • Paint, frame, and install bridge timbers.
    • Conduct masonry repairs on bridges, including tasks like constructing concrete forms, driving piles, and managing the layout, pouring, and finishing of concrete.
    • Undertake various construction and repair tasks related to culverts, timber and steel bridges, and buildings.
  • Foster positive working relationships with colleagues, supervisors, contractors, and customers while effectively managing urgent situations.

  • Adhere to all safety, operational, and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations and rules within the railroad industry.

  • Execute any additional responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications - Required
  • Applicants must have reached the age of 21 or above.
  • Valid driver's license
  • Experience using hand and power tools
  • Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Class A or Class B, or can obtain one within your probationary period
  • Proficient verbal and written communication skills to deliver information to coworker(s) and supervisor(s)
  • Able to read and comprehend blueprints
  • Experience reading and understanding instructions (examples may include: operating and safety rules, bulletins, special instructions, and federal regulatory documents)
  • In order to be considered for this position, candidates are required to successfully complete an assessment in English before proceeding to the interview stage.  For more information go to the FAQs on UP.jobs.
Qualifications - Preferred
  • Proficiency in the use of both hand and power tools.
  • Familiarity with operating heavy machinery, including construction and farm equipment, acquired through professional, personal, or volunteer experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively outdoors in diverse weather conditions, drawing from professional, personal, or volunteer background.
  • Experience in a construction-oriented environment, whether gained through professional, personal, or volunteer involvement.
  • Flexibility to work on-call, overtime, during various shifts, including weekends and holidays, seven days a week.
Physical and Mental Job Requirements
  • Physical Stamina: The role involves engaging in physically demanding tasks consistently. Occasional bending, stooping, and kneeling may be required. Manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination are essential.
  • Standing: Must be capable of standing for extended periods during the workday, with the flexibility to change positions periodically for comfort.
  • Walking: Safely walk and maintain balance on uneven surfaces.
  • Lifting and Carrying: Must be able to occasionally lift and carry items weighing up to 65 lbs, as well as push and pull objects up to 119 lbs.
  • Candidates are required to successfully pass a Physical Ability Test (PAT) before being considered for employment.  This is separate from the medical exam.  For more information go to the FAQs on UP.jobs.
Work Conditions
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring company sponsorship.
  • Willing and able to work at different heights.
  • Demonstrates a commitment to practicing safe work habits.
  • Must be comfortable working in proximity to large equipment, including railcars, locomotives, and cranes.
  • Please apply only if you are prepared to both live and work at the specified locations.

Union Pacific strives to attract all available talent. We are committed to creating an environment where all people can be their best, personally and professionally, as we remain a merit and performance-based company.

What we offer:

  • A strengths-based, engagement-focused, and performance-oriented culture
  • Ongoing learning, development, and Educational Assistance (including little to no out-of-pocket cost for online and in-person courses at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and Metropolitan Community College)
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan with 20% match up to 5%
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance, which are collectively bargained for through union membership
    Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs

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