1

Utility Forester Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Our Roving Utility Forester position is ideal for candidates with a background in forestry, arboriculture, horticulture, environmental studies and natural resources, or a related discipline.

Degree in Forestry, Arboriculture, Environmental Science, or related field, or equivalent experience in utility line clearance * Ability to obtain ISA Arborist Certification within 1 year of start ...

Utility Technician

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

Aqua, an Essential Utilities company, employs people in a variety of roles within our eight-state ... acres of forests and other habitats throughout our footprint. Our company is one of the most ...

Utility Technician

Valparaiso, IN

$20 - $27.25/hr

Aqua, an Essential Utilities company, employs people in a variety of roles within our eight-state ... acres of forests and other habitats throughout our footprint. Our company is one of the most ...

Decker

Goshen, IN · On-site

Forest River, Inc., the Nation's largest manufacturer of Recreational Vehicles, Cargo Trailers, Transit Buses and Boats has an immediate opening. Responsibilities * Decking Qualifications * Use of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Utility Forester information

See Indiana salary details

$5

$23

$37

How much do utility forester jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility forester in Indiana is $23.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $26.97 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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Utility foresters typically do not earn $2,000 a day; their pay varies based on experience, location, and project scope, but high-paying roles in the industry may reach several hundred dollars per day. Extremely high daily earnings are more common in specialized consulting, executive positions, or contract work in related fields such as environmental consulting or forestry management, often requiring advanced certifications and extensive experience.

What are utility foresters?

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.

How much do utility foresters make?

Utility foresters typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $65,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced foresters or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for utility vegetation management.

What does a utility forester do?

A utility forester is responsible for managing and maintaining trees near power lines to prevent outages and ensure safety. They conduct inspections, identify hazards, and perform pruning or removal using tools like chainsaws, often working outdoors and following safety protocols. Certification in forestry or arboriculture is typically required for this role.

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

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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Utility foresters typically do not earn $10,000 a month without a degree; high earnings in this field usually require experience, certifications, or advanced skills. Jobs that can pay this amount without a degree include certain sales roles, real estate brokers, or specialized trades like commercial pilots or oil and gas workers, often requiring specific training or licenses. These roles often involve high responsibility, physical work, or sales commissions to reach such income levels.
What are popular job titles related to Utility Forester jobs in Indiana? For Utility Forester jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Utility Forester Associate - Utility Forester

Aep

Muncie, IN

$63K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Posting End Date

06-20-2026

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

Assign and recommend industry accepted management practices to provide corrective control of non-compatible vegetation conditions in utility rights of way to vegetation control contractors; inspect ongoing and completed assignments to assure contract compliance to reduce preventable vegetation interruptions of service and to provide, as much as practical, access to facilities for the purpose of repair and inspection.

Job Description

What you'll do:
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • After training, patrol lines and facilities to assess vegetative conditions and recommend utility vegetation operations, maintain records of work and make the necessary arrangements with landowners for vegetation management and access to facilities.

  • Investigate and resolve landowner issues and concerns.

  • With assistance, estimate vegetation management requirements and costs for construction and rebuilding of new and existing facilities.

  • With assistance, determine future utility vegetation management requirements and recommend short and long-term vegetation management work plans and best management practices.

  • Contact governmental agencies, other utilities, landowners and others to arrange and coordinate right-of-way vegetation management work plans required.

  • Inspect vegetation management and work planning contractors for contract compliance, recommending acceptance or corrective action.

  • With assistance, recommend work plans, priorities, schedules and contractor requirements in accordance with the vegetation management program.

  • Apply and keep informed of current contract provisions.

  • Maintain records and prepare reports on costs, production and work quality. Operate the forestry computer programs and records systems.

  • Guide and train others involved with the vegetation management program in proper work practices and utility vegetation management procedures.

What we're looking for:

Minimum Requirements for Utility Forester Associate (SG 04):

  • Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Urban Forestry, Natural Resource Management, Arboriculture, or a related field and two (2) years of experience as a contract utility forester desired.

  • OR associate's degree in one of the same fields and four (4) years' experience in utility vegetation management industry.

  • OR High school diploma and six (6) years as a contract forester or other related positions in the utility industry.

Minimum Requirements for Utility Forester (SG 05):

  • Bachelor Degree in Forestry, Urban Forestry, Natural Resource Management, Arboriculture, or a related field and three (3) years of experience in utility vegetation management industry.

  • OR Associate's degree in one of the same fields and five (5) years experience in utility vegetation management industry.

  • OR High school diploma and seven (7) years as a contract forester or other related positions in the utility industry.

Licenses/Certificates:

  • Knowledge and safe use of pesticides required.
  • Possession of Certified Pesticide Applicator's license desirable.
  • Arborist certification desirable.

Other requirements:

  • Must act as a professional, employing a great deal of diplomacy to "sell" the Company's necessary right-of-way maintenance projects to the public.

  • Courses in horticulture and/or vegetation management desirable.

  • Competency in GIS systems and Microsoft Office components such as Access, Excel, PowerPoint and Word in addition to other analytical tools is required.

  • Extensive travel is required to inspect and plan for the Company's right-of-way maintenance program.

  • Apply AEP Accounting Policies & Guidelines related to expense vs. capitalization for labor, services, and material in a proficient manner.

  • Valid State Driver's License.

What you'll get:

Utility Forester Associate (SG 04):

Starting pay between $54,063-$67,578

Utility Forester (SG 05):

Starting pay between $63,496-$79,369

In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

At AEP, we're more than just an energy company - we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-004

Compensation Range:

$54,063.00 - $79,369.00

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

Hear about it first! Get job alerts by email. Log in to your Candidate Home Account today! If you don't have an account, you can create one.

It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.