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Trainee Forestry Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator Trainee

Parshall, CO

$26 - $33/hr

Both sites are surrounded byUS Forest Serviceland of theArapaho National Forest, making it easy for our employees and their families to enjoy year-round hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator Trainee

Parshall, CO · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

The Henderson mill is located 15 miles west of the mine, between Dillon and Kremmling.  Both sites are surrounded by US Forest Service land of the Arapaho National Forest, making it easy for ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator Trainee

Parshall, CO · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

The Henderson mill is located 15 miles west of the mine, between Dillon and Kremmling.  Both sites are surrounded by US Forest Service land of the Arapaho National Forest, making it easy for ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator Trainee

Parshall, CO · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Both sites are surrounded byUS Forest Serviceland of theArapaho National Forest, making it easy for our employees and their families to enjoy year-round hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator Trainee

Parshall, CO

$22 - $29.50/hr

Both sites are surrounded byUS Forest Serviceland of theArapaho National Forest, making it easy for our employees and their families to enjoy year-round hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing ...

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All JobsForestry JobsTrainee Forestry JobsTrainee Forestry Jobs in Colorado

Trainee Forestry information

See Colorado salary details

$15.1K

$42.2K

$72K

How much do trainee forestry jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee forestry in Colorado is $42,159.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,476.00 and $48,478.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee forestry?

Trainee foresters are individuals who are gaining hands-on experience and training in forest management, conservation, and related environmental practices. They typically work under the supervision of experienced foresters, learning about tree identification, forest ecology, timber harvesting, and sustainable land management. The role is often the first step toward becoming a professional forester and may involve both fieldwork and classroom instruction. Trainee foresters are essential for supporting sustainable forestry practices and ensuring the long-term health of forest ecosystems.

What are some typical challenges faced by a trainee forestry professional during their first year, and how can they be overcome?

Trainee Forestry professionals often face challenges such as acclimating to outdoor fieldwork in varying weather conditions, learning technical skills like tree identification and data collection, and understanding complex regulatory and environmental guidelines. Building resilience and adaptability, seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, and actively engaging in on-the-job training can help overcome these hurdles. Regular communication with team members and participating in safety briefings are also essential for success and professional growth.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Forestry, you typically need a background in environmental science, forestry, or a related field, along with strong analytical and observational skills. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, forest inventory tools, and basic data collection systems is commonly required. Teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are important soft skills for working outdoors and collaborating with diverse stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring sustainable forest management, safety, and accurate reporting in a dynamic natural environment.

What is the difference between Trainee Forestry vs Forestry Technician?

AspectTrainee ForestryForestry Technician
Required CredentialsOften entry-level, may require a high school diploma or relevant courseworkTypically requires a diploma or associate degree in forestry or related field
Work EnvironmentOn-the-job training, supervised fieldworkFieldwork and office tasks, outdoor environment
Employer & Industry UsageInternships, training programs, entry-level positionsFull-time roles in forestry agencies, conservation organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

In summary, Trainee Forestry positions are typically entry-level roles focused on training and gaining practical experience, often requiring minimal formal credentials. Forestry Technicians are more experienced roles requiring specific certifications or degrees, with responsibilities including field assessments and data collection. Both roles are essential in forestry operations but differ mainly in experience level and job responsibilities.

Can you work in trainee forestry without a degree?

Trainee forestry positions often do not require a college degree, as they focus on practical skills, physical fitness, and knowledge of environmental practices. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and certifications such as chainsaw safety or pesticide application can enhance employability. However, some advanced roles may prefer or require formal education in forestry or related fields.

How to start a career as a trainee forestry?

To start a career as a trainee forestry worker, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, gain knowledge of environmental science or forestry through courses or volunteering, and look for entry-level trainee or internship positions with forestry agencies or conservation organizations. Developing skills in tree identification, equipment use, and safety procedures can improve job prospects. Some positions may require relevant certifications or physical fitness for outdoor work.

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

The most popular types of Forestry jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Trainee Forestry jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Trainee Forestry job openings:

Trainee Forestry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Forestry job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,159 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Parks Crew Lead - Open Space & Forestry

Adams County, CO

Henderson, CO • On-site

$72K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead, oversee, and participate in weed infestation identification, mapping, and management activities.

  • Apply herbicides and other pest control methods in accordance with regulations, maintaining records of treatments.

  • Supervise, train, and evaluate seasonal employees and volunteers involved in weed control and forestry tasks.

Job description

Salary : $72,758.40 - $101,857.60 Annually
Location : Parks-North Region Operations, 9755 Henderson Road, Brighton, CO, CO
Job Type: Regular Full-time
Job Number: 07637
Department: Parks, Open Space & Cultural Arts
Division: North Region Operations
Opening Date: 08/27/2026
Closing Date: 9/24/2026 4:30 PM Mountain
Our Mission: To responsibly serve the Adams County community with integrity and innovation.
EEO: Adams County is an equal opportunity employer. No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status or any other legally protected characteristic.
Position classification: Onsite -- Job duties and expectations require employee to be regularly scheduled onsite.
What Success Looks Like In This Job
Leads, oversees and participates in the work of staff responsible for the identification and management of weed infestations, infestation management and performing a variety of duties involved in the implementation of a community forestry program on County owned Property, in parks and along trails and some roadways; participates in open space restoration and management, and providing staff assistance to the Parks Open Space Supervisor.
Examples of Duties for Success
  • Locate and identify weed infested areas; map and monitor progress of treated areas. Develop strategy for long-term integrated noxious weed/ invasive species eradication program.
  • Monitor and evaluate populations of noxious weeds/invasive species and make recommendations for management/suppression, using the most appropriate integrated pest management methods.
  • Identify county, state, and federal requirements and regulations of various weed control management techniques, including all requirements relevant to pesticide storage, mixing, application, and disposal.
  • Apply EPA restricted and non-restricted herbicides to county open spaces, roadsides, and private lands requiring enforcement procedures; control noxious weeds; determine type and amount of pesticides to be applied according to label. Gather information required by State and Federal agencies; maintain daily records of treated areas; prepare necessary records.
  • Operate all Open Space Division vehicles including one-ton vehicles, ATV's, lift trucks, chippers and trailers; assist in the calibration of herbicide application vehicles; perform minor maintenance.
  • Assist in the production of maps of unincorporated Adams County for infestation of noxious weeds included on the State Noxious Weed List.
  • Participate in the field activities of a team of urban forestry specialists and trainees, regular and seasonal laborers and equipment operators.
  • Performs or assists in the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees, shrubs, flowers, and turf.
  • Maintain knowledge and comply with all rules and regulations set by State and Federal agencies; report changes in rules and regulations to supervisory staff.
  • Identify, control, and contain noxious weeds using integrated management techniques where feasible at parks, on trails, and on open space lands.
  • Accurately records work progress and updates mapping activities of the County's tree inventory using field computers.
  • Assist the Open Space Supervisor in organizing vegetation management education functions.
  • Supervise, train, and evaluate weed control and forestry seasonal employees and volunteers in the performance of their tasks and responsibilities.
  • Assist with responses to hazardous materials spills and pesticide contamination events.
  • Conduct and/or participate in tree surveys and mapping exercises.
  • Plant, prune and maintain trees in accordance with International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) standards.
  • Assist Open Space Supervisor in performing site visits for land owners in un-incorporated Adams County; assist in developing integrated weed management plans for private land owners.
  • Assist park maintenance crews in construction and park maintenance projects, including the use of hand and power tools and the operation of heavy equipment.
  • Perform other related duties and responsibilities as required.
  • Supervisory Responsibilities - None.

Qualifications for Success
  • Knowledge of rules, regulations, and laws related to weed control, pest control and community forestry.
  • Knowledge of principles and practices used in the application of pesticides to control weeds and other designated pests.
  • Knowledge of principles of record keeping and report preparation in accordance with the Colorado Pesticide Applicator's Act.
  • Knowledge of pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
  • Knowledge of operational hazards and standard safety practices necessary in the area of assigned work.
  • Ability to operate, calibrate, repair, and care for the full range of mechanical and chemical parks equipment.
  • Ability to lead, organize, and review the work of assigned staff.
  • Accurately determine amount of pesticide to be applied (measurement of liquids, ratios).
  • Ability to identify noxious weeds, locations, and extent of infestations in Adams County; interpret, navigate, and map infestations effectively using topographical maps and Geographical Information Systems (GIS).
  • Ability to successfully meet continuing education requirements to maintain pesticide applicator certification by the Colorado Department of Agriculture and/or International Society of Arboriculture.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing with staff and landowners.
  • Ability to establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted during work.
  • Knowledge of lead supervision and training, record keeping, and reporting.
  • Knowledge of pertinent Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
  • Knowledge of basic budgeting principles and practices.
  • Lead, organize, and review the work of maintenance staff and handle conflict in an appropriate manner.
  • Knowledge of forestry principles, practices and their application.
  • Ability to interpret diagrams, plans, and blueprints.
  • Operate basic office equipment including a personal computer and related software.
The anticipated hiring range for this role is $72,759.78 - $83,673.74. The potential full salary range for this role is $$72,759.78 - $101,863.69
More Qualifications for Success
  • Experience: Three (3) years of increasingly responsible experience in landscape maintenance, urban forest management and/or herbicide application.
  • Education and Training: High school diploma or GED equivalent, supplemented by training in forestry, turf and grounds maintenance, chemical application and equipment operation
  • License or Certificate: Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Colorado driver's license; CDL.
    • Candidates must possess a valid Colorado Commercial Driver's License Class B at the time of interview or within 6 months of employment.
    • Candidates selected for interviews will need to provide a current copy of their motor vehicle record. Adams County is required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations to conduct pre-employment drug screens, background checks and motor vehicle record checks.
    • Successful candidates must pass all of the above, including a DOT physical and a criminal background check.
    • Possession of a State of Colorado Department of Agriculture Public Applicators License.
    • Desirable Forestry Licenses and Certifications:
      • International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist certification
      • International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Tree Risk Assessment Qualification.
      • Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) Certified Tree care Safety Professional (CTSP).
    • Essential duties require the following physical abilities:
      • The employee frequently is required to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch, squat, stoop, reach, crawl, twist, climb, and lift an/or move 100 pounds.
      • Exposure to noise, outdoors, electrical hazards, dust, chemicals and mechanical hazards.
    • Work Environment:
      • This position requires frequent exposure to all types of weather conditions.
      • This position requires exposure to noise, outdoors, confined work spaces, electrical hazards, vibrations, chemicals, dust and mechanical hazards
    • Special Requirements:
      • Availability for on-call and stand-by call.
      • This position requires shift work, on-call and nights/weekend shift work.
      • Ability to respond during an emergency or during extreme weather events including wind, rain, snow or ice.
    • Assist in the preparation and operation of the Adams County Fair and other special events as assigned.

Adams County and the 17th Judicial District Attorney's Office complies with Colorado's Job Application Fairness Act ("JAFA"). JAFA prohibits employers from asking individuals to disclose their age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation on an initial employment application. However, additional application materials such as certifications and transcripts containing this information may be required for certain positions; if such additional materials are requested, applicants may redact information that identifies the applicant's age, date of birth, or dates or attendance or graduation.
Adams County provides a comprehensive benefits package to employees that goes above and beyond what is offered at most organizations.
Benefits You Expect:
  • AFLAC Supplemental Medical Insurance
  • Basic Term Life & Optional Term Life Insurance
  • Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Dental/Vision/Medical Plans
  • Generous Vacation/Sick leave
  • Long-Term Disability
  • Retirement Plan
  • Short-Term Disability
Plus some you might not expect:
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Fitness Center
  • Employee Health Clinics
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Recreation Center Discounts
  • Training & Tuition Reimbursement Programs
  • Wellness programs
  • Lactation friendly certified workplace

01
Please be aware that your cover letter and resume will not be accessed in the initial screening process, so you must complete your application and supplemental questions with as much detail as possible. Any personally identifiable information (PII) such as name and address will be redacted from applications that meet the minimum screening requirements and are forwarded to the hiring manager. If the hiring manager selects you to advance in the hiring process, your cover letter and resume will then be accessible to the hiring team. Information provided on the application is used to determine if a candidate meets minimum qualifications. Only information provided at the time of the application being completed will be considered and additional information that is not listed on the application will not be considered when deciding if a candidate meets or does not meet the qualifications. Applicants are STRONGLY encouraged to include all information and details on their application. I understand and agree that only information provided at the time of my application will be used to determine if I meet the minimum requirements for this position.
  • Yes, I understand and agree
  • Yes, I understand but disagree.

02
Do you possess three (3) years of increasingly responsible experience in landscape maintenance, urban forest management and/or herbicide application?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you currently possess any Forestry Licenses and Certifications? If yes please list below.
05
Do you currently possess, or have the ability to obtain, a valid Colorado Commercial Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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