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Utility Forester Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Climbing Arborist

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

If eligible, the $2,500 sign-on bonus will be paid in two installments: 50% following 60 days of employment and 50% following one year of continued employment. #: tree climber, utility forester ...

Climbing Arborist

Burnsville, MN · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

If eligible, the $2,500 sign-on bonus will be paid in two installments: 50% following 60 days of employment and 50% following one year of continued employment. #: tree climber, utility forester ...

Climbing Arborist

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

If eligible, the $2,500 sign-on bonus will be paid in two installments: 50% following 60 days of employment and 50% following one year of continued employment. #: tree climber, utility forester ...

Three or more years of progressively responsible utility vegetation management, forestry, construction, or related operational experience, including leadership responsibility.Demonstrated experience ...

Three or more years of progressively responsible utility vegetation management, forestry, construction, or related operational experience, including leadership responsibility. * Demonstrated ...

Three or more years of progressively responsible utility vegetation management, forestry, construction, or related operational experience, including leadership responsibility. * Demonstrated ...

Three or more years of progressively responsible utility vegetation management, forestry, construction, or related operational experience, including leadership responsibility. * Demonstrated ...

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Utility Forester information

See Minnesota salary details

$5

$24

$39

How much do utility forester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility forester in Minnesota is $24.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $27.79 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 Minnesota? For Utility Forester jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Forester jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Forester jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Utility Forester jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Utility Forester job openings:
Infographic showing various Utility Forester job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,266 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Contract Utility Forester | Richmond / Petersburg, VA

ACRT Pacific

Virginia, MN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Position Summary ACRT, Inc. is recruiting a Contract Utility Forester to perform tree and brush identification, inspection, and evaluation along utility lines throughout Virginia. Key Responsibilities Identify, inspect, and evaluate trees and brush along utility lines. Submit inspection results to clients with recommendations. Plan, direct, and coordinate activities of assigned tree clearance crews. Discuss and negotiate line‐clearance crew access issues. Serve as liaison between clients, tree crews, and client customers. Travel throughout Virginia, including some overnight travel. Qualifications Two‐year or four‐year degree in forestry, horticulture, environmental science, or a closely related field; or, in lieu of a degree, at least two years of experience in Utility Vegetation Management or a related field (e.g., right‐of‐way management, integrated vegetation management, nursery work, or timber cutting). Previous experience in Utility Vegetation Management preferred. Competent computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite. Experience working with GIS integrated data collection software/hardware preferred but not required. Self‐motivated, organized, and production oriented. Comfortable working independently and managing a geographic area for all vegetation‐related activities. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with stakeholders, utility customers, and line‐clearance vendors. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Multi‐tasking and strong time‐management skills. Ability to work in varied terrain and inclement weather with flexible schedules (including nights and weekends). Valid driver's license required. Benefits Medical, Dental, Vision, and group life insurance (optional supplemental life insurance). Short‐ and long‐term disability coverage. Vacation, holidays, and a 401(k) plan. Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Company vehicle/fuel card for work‐related and commuting purposes. Boot allowance program. ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) with a favorable vesting schedule. EEO and Accommodation Statement ACRT, Inc. is an Equal Employment/Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at hr@acrtinc.com. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case‐by‐case basis. #J-18808-Ljbffr