ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Utility Forester Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CERES

Forester I

Cameron Park, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Forester I Location: Cameron Park, CA Reports to: Operations Manager Compensation Range: $70,000 - $90,000 annually (based on experience and qualifications) Benefits: Comprehensive package including ...

MGE

Assessor/Pre-Inspector - Bishop, Mammoth

Bishop, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Opportunity to work with a dynamic and dedicated team If you are a utility forester with a passion for tree care and vegetation management and want to join a leading organization in the utility ...

MGE

Assessor - Tehachapi/Bakersfield

Tehachapi, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Opportunity to work with a dynamic and dedicated team If you are a utility forester with a passion for tree care and vegetation management and want to join a leading organization in the utility ...

American Tree Medics Inc

Team Urban Forester

Sonora, CA · On-site

$18 - $28/hr

You'll play a crucial role in helping implement municipal and utility vegetation projects, gaining ... Experience in forestry, landscaping, or related outdoor industries * Wildland fire experience

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsUtility Forester JobsUtility Forester Jobs in California

Utility Forester information

See California salary details

$5

$24

$39

How much do utility forester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility forester in California is $24.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges utility foresters face when balancing vegetation management with environmental regulations?

Utility Foresters often encounter the challenge of ensuring reliable utility line clearance while strictly adhering to environmental regulations and best practices. They must carefully plan and execute vegetation management activities to minimize ecological impact, protect wildlife habitats, and comply with federal, state, and local laws. This requires effective communication with landowners, regulatory agencies, and utility crews, as well as staying updated on evolving environmental guidelines. Successfully navigating these challenges helps maintain public safety and service reliability while promoting environmental stewardship.

What is a utility forester?

Utility foresters are professionals who manage and oversee vegetation near utility infrastructure, such as power lines and pipelines. Their main responsibility is to ensure that trees and other vegetation do not interfere with utility operations, which helps prevent outages and maintain safety. Utility foresters perform inspections, coordinate tree trimming or removal, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. They often work with utility companies, contractors, and governmental agencies to implement vegetation management plans.

What is the difference between Utility Forester vs Utility Arborist?

AspectUtility ForesterUtility Arborist
CertificationsTypically requires ISA Certified Arborist or Utility SpecialistOften requires ISA Certified Arborist or Utility Specialist
Work EnvironmentFieldwork managing vegetation near power lines, working with utility companiesFieldwork focused on tree care, pruning, and removal near utility infrastructure
Employer & IndustryUtility companies, forestry services, government agenciesUtility companies, tree care firms, municipal services

Utility Foresters and Utility Arborists share certifications and work environments related to vegetation management near power lines. However, Utility Foresters focus more on planning, mapping, and overseeing vegetation management programs, while Utility Arborists concentrate on tree pruning, removal, and maintenance. Both roles are essential in ensuring safe and reliable utility operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility forester?

To thrive as a Utility Forester, you need knowledge of arboriculture, forestry principles, and utility vegetation management, usually supported by a degree in forestry or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping systems, tree risk assessment tools, and certifications like ISA Certified Arborist are typical technical requirements. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, reliable utility operations while protecting environmental and public interests.
What are popular job titles related to Utility Forester jobs in California? For Utility Forester jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Forester jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Forester jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Utility Forester jobs? Cities in California with the most Utility Forester job openings:
Utility Forester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Forester job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,651 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Consulting Utility Forester - Routine and Special Projects

American Tree Medics Inc

Lakeshore, CA • On-site

$21 - $62.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Consulting Utility Forester for Routine and Special Projects

Join the team at American Tree Medics as a Consulting Utility Forester (CUF). We are looking for passionate professionals with a drive to prosper within a rapidly expanding team!


With a commitment to public safety, and forest preservation, we are searching for candidates whose values closely align with our own. Play a vital role in patrolling circuits and prescribing work for both routine and special projects. As a Consulting Utility Forester, you will conduct hazard and growth assessments of trees, evaluating their relationship to utility systems and structures.


American Tree Medics offers a competitive salary package including educational opportunities and pathways to career advancement. We officer a dynamic work environment with multiple locations across California.


Work Location

This position offers a unique opportunity to work in various locations around: District 50 (Shaver Lake), or as a Roving Forester across Northern California, as needed.


Key Responsibilities Include:

Conducting inspections on right of way and utility infrastructure, in collaboration with major utility systems

Managing communication with land owners regarding work on their property

Effectually navigate various habitats, terrains and other environmental conditions

Collaborate with project managers and vegetation crews to ensure smooth processes and quality work

Efficiently use handheld devices for data entry, maps and GPS.


Required Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent.

A minimum of one year of arboriculture experience.

An Ability to work independently (essential)

A valid California driver's license with a clean DMV record (printout required before interview)

Competency driving 4x4 vehicles on rough and narrow paths, including operating in inclement weather

International Society of Arboriculture certified arborist (ISA) (requirement is project specific at this time)

A willingness to travel (lodging and per diem provided for overnight stay, when needed)

Capable of performing job in accordance with the ADA, FMLA, or any other local, state or federal regulations.

An ability to adapt to inclement weather to include hiking in rugged terrain.


Desired Qualifications:

A love of nature and an ability to embrace working in an outdoor environment

An ability to quickly learn tree species and growth rates

An ability to adapt to using range finders and other job-specific equipment

Thriving in a fast-pace, changing environment with continual learning and attention to detail

An ability to embrace open communication and teamwork, as an essential component to our success


Additional Requirements

The role requires physical activity in, sometimes, challenging environments. This includes an ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and operate vehicles in rugged terrain. Candidates can expect to work in various weather conditions and strong communication skills are a must.