1

Tree Planting Reforestation Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Tree farm planting and harvesting * Planting logistics and supervision * Cover crop research and ... Reforestation supervision and administration * Vegetation sampling - Identification of all plants ...

Forester

Hayward, WI · On-site

$43K - $62K/yr

Reforestation supervision and administration * Vegetation sampling - Identification of all plants and trees within sample plot area * Tree farm planting and harvesting * Other duties as assigned WHO ...

Reforestation supervision and administration * Vegetation sampling - Identification of all plants and trees within sample plot area * Tree farm planting and harvesting * Other duties as assigned WHO ...

Tree Planting Reforestation information

See Wisconsin salary details

$15

$29

$50

How much do tree planting reforestation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for tree planting reforestation in Wisconsin is $29.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.55 and $33.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Tree Planting Reforestation vs Tree Planting Restoration?

AspectTree Planting ReforestationTree Planting Restoration
CertificationsTypically requires forestry or environmental certificationsSimilar certifications, often including ecological restoration training
Work EnvironmentForests, reforestation sites, conservation areasDegraded lands, ecological restoration sites, conservation projects
Industry UsageReforestation projects to restore forest coverRestoration projects to recover ecosystems and biodiversity

Tree Planting Reforestation focuses on restoring forest cover by planting trees in deforested areas, while Tree Planting Restoration involves planting trees as part of broader ecological recovery efforts to restore ecosystems and biodiversity. Both roles require similar skills and certifications but differ in project goals and environments.

How much money can you make from planting trees?

Tree planting and reforestation jobs typically pay between $10 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and organization. Seasonal or volunteer positions may be unpaid or offer stipends, while professional roles with certifications can earn higher wages. Skills in plant identification and environmental conservation can improve earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tree Planting Reforestation Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tree Planting Reforestation Worker, you need physical stamina, basic knowledge of ecology or forestry, and familiarity with safe planting techniques, often gained through on-the-job training or relevant certifications. Use of GPS devices, tree planting tools, and sometimes data collection apps is common in the field. Strong teamwork, adaptability to harsh outdoor environments, and a solid work ethic are valuable soft skills. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient reforestation efforts, high survival rates of planted trees, and successful ecosystem restoration.

What is the highest paid job in forestry?

The highest paid jobs in forestry are often senior roles such as Forest Managers, Forest Engineers, or Consulting Foresters, which require advanced education and experience. These positions typically involve overseeing large-scale projects, managing teams, and utilizing specialized skills and certifications, leading to higher salaries compared to entry-level roles like tree planting or reforestation workers.

What is the 10 20 30 rule for tree planting?

The 10-20-30 rule in tree planting suggests planting trees at least 10 feet apart, ensuring they have enough space to grow, with a minimum of 20 feet from structures or other trees to prevent competition, and planting no more than 30 trees per acre for optimal growth and maintenance. This guideline helps reforestation projects promote healthy, sustainable forests. Proper spacing is essential for tree health, growth, and ecosystem balance.

What are some common challenges faced by tree planting reforestation workers in the field?

Tree planting reforestation workers often face physical challenges such as working in rugged terrain, variable weather conditions, and carrying heavy loads of saplings and equipment. The work can be repetitive and physically demanding, requiring stamina and good health. Additionally, workers must carefully follow planting guidelines to ensure high survival rates for the trees, which can be challenging when working quickly or in difficult soil conditions. Collaborating effectively with a team and maintaining motivation during long planting days are also important aspects of the role.

How to work in reforestation?

To work in reforestation, you can seek roles such as tree planter or reforestation technician, which often require physical stamina and knowledge of planting techniques. Gaining experience through volunteer work or seasonal planting programs, and obtaining certifications in forestry or environmental conservation, can improve job prospects. Fieldwork typically involves working outdoors in various weather conditions and using tools like shovels and planting equipment.

What is tree planting reforestation?

Tree planting reforestation is the process of planting trees in areas where forests have been depleted or destroyed, with the goal of restoring ecosystems and increasing forest cover. This job involves preparing land, selecting appropriate tree species, planting seedlings, and sometimes maintaining young trees to ensure their survival. Reforestation helps combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, supports biodiversity, and can improve soil and water quality. Tree planters often work in teams and may be employed by government agencies, environmental organizations, or private companies. The work is physically demanding but plays a vital role in environmental conservation.
What are popular job titles related to Tree Planting Reforestation jobs in Wisconsin? For Tree Planting Reforestation jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tree Planting Reforestation jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Tree Planting Reforestation jobs in Wisconsin are:
Infographic showing various Tree Planting Reforestation job openings in Wisconsin as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,243 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
Forest Health Specialist

Forest Health Specialist

Steigerwaldt Land Services

Tomahawk, WI • On-site

$43K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

POSITION: Forest Health Specialist
JOB TYPE: Full-time
LOCATION: Tomahawk, WI
WHO WE ARE
Steigerwaldt Land Services, Inc., is a full-service resource solution company, offering a wide range of appraisal, analysis, real estate, right-of-way, environmental, and forestry services to our clients in the Lake States region and beyond. Founded in 1957, Steigerwaldt is a third-generation, family owned and operated company with history and experience spanning more than 65 years. Steigerwaldt employs a staff of over 60 people, with offices in Tomahawk and Hayward, Wisconsin; and Marquette, Michigan.
Becoming a member of Steigerwaldt is more than just an opportunity to follow your passion in forestry. It is an opportunity to be a part of an organization that fosters professional growth, nurtures your talent, and allows you to take ownership of your career path. A strong sense of brand, culture, and values define our company and our team. Our office culture is one that values synergy in the office and in the field.
Steigerwaldt creates a transparent and inclusive environment that involves you in team decision-making, cross-department learning, career path exploration, and hands-on experiences for you to grow your breadth of knowledge.
If this sounds like the supportive, passion-driven, professional environment you will thrive in, please apply to join our team. We are currently seeking a full-time Forester at our Hayward or Tomahawk office location. This is considered an entry-level position, although previous professional experience is helpful.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
This position resides in our Land and Resource Management Division and will support daily operations and projects in the Forest Operations, Environmental, and Tree Farm departments. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Tree farm planting and harvesting
  • Planting logistics and supervision
  • Cover crop research and planning
  • Monitor tree/forest health, research solutions, and complete prescribed treatments
  • Florida retail support in November/December
  • Tree Farm, Environmental, Forest Operations, and arborist (if applicable) crossover support
  • Harvest boundary research and delineation, technical skill with sub-meter GPS unit
  • Timber sale marking, setup, and establishment following site-specific prescriptions on all timber types common to Lake States
  • Inventory data collection with necessary level of speed and precision dependent upon project requirements
  • Stand reconnaissance and silvicultural planning
  • Reforestation supervision and administration
  • Vegetation sampling - Identification of all plants and trees within sample plot area
  • Invasive species identification and control
  • Periodic travel on project may exceed ±50 percent (in and out of state)
  • Other duties as assigned

WHO YOU ARE
You are a supportive and reliable team member that engages in building a great team and work culture. You are driven and motivated to be a part of a successful team and provide high-quality service and results. You show persistence, tenacity, and grit every day, through tough conditions and deadlines with energy and enthusiasm. You are curious and open-minded in exploring solutions and opportunities. You are a caretaker of resources, people, and company. You thrive working in a fast-paced, highly driven environment and can adapt quickly to changing conditions and priorities. You must have an adventurous side, enjoy significant travel, and thrive in high-pressure situations and working with tight deadlines.
  • Engage in active listening to understand and act on the expectations of peers, supervisors, and clients.
  • Embrace change and can modify behavior and plans to effectively achieve goals. Adaptability, flexibility, and change agility is necessary.
  • Has the drive, energy, and initiative to work independently in varied settings, both in the field and with clients and other professionals.
  • A team player who is an ambassador of integrity, respect, curiosity, and flexibility.
  • An individual who uses Steigerwaldt's mission of 'Quality work fast, with honesty and integrity; rooted in our passion for stewardship of resources and relationships.' as a benchmark for decision making and standard of work.
  • An effective problem solver that can identify the root of a problem, provide productive solutions, act decisively, and show good judgement.

PREFERRED SKILLS
  • Desire to develop a career as a professional forester in a fast-paced and diverse consulting business
  • Familiarity with Lake States forest management and timber harvest administration
  • 2 or 4 year degree in Forest Management, Environmental Science, or related field
  • Ability to work independently in varied settings, both in the field and with clients and other professionals
  • Superior written and oral communication skills
  • Competent with Microsoft Office software
  • Experience with GPS data collecting and processing
  • Experience with ESRI GIS software and GIS mapping and data collection principles
  • Ability to travel and conduct overnight work away from the office - travel up to 25-40 percent or more
  • Current valid driver's license with personal vehicle suitable for forestry work (mileage is reimbursed)
  • ATV and snowmobile certifications
  • A team player who is confident, respectful, curious, flexible, and able to work with other professionals in a growing, successful, and respected business

WORK ENVIRONMENT
Due to the nature of the team approach to our field work and needed access to equipment and company vehicles, the Forest Health Specialist position is considered a resident or office-based position with remote work possible, upon approval from the supervisor. The position is roughly 95 percent field work and 5 percent office work.
COMPENSATION
Salary commensurate with experience.
POSTING DATE
June 15, 2026. Position will be filled within one to three months. Interviews will be scheduled throughout this time period. Expected start is July but dependent upon candidate availability. Please note that these positions may be filled sooner, as there is flexibility in the start date.
CONTACT
For any hiring questions, please reach out to Travis Polinske at travis.polinske@steigerwaldt.com or 715-409-8535
Steigerwaldt is an equal opportunity employer. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.