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Utility Forester Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

... forestry, construction, or a related technical field is preferred. * High school diploma or equivalent with an interest in surveying, utilities, construction, engineering, or a related field may also ...

... forestry, construction, or a related technical field is preferred. * High school diploma or equivalent with an interest in surveying, utilities, construction, engineering, or a related field may also ...

... forestry, construction, or a related technical field is preferred. * High school diploma or equivalent with an interest in surveying, utilities, construction, engineering, or a related field may also ...

Gas Designer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

We are currently seeking Gas Designer(s) for our Gas Discipline focused on natural gas utility ... Ability to carry ~10 lbs throughout the workday sometimes through difficult terrain such as forests ...

Gas Designer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

We are currently seeking Gas Designer(s) for our Gas Discipline focused on natural gas utility ... Ability to carry ~10 lbs throughout the workday sometimes through difficult terrain such as forests ...

Utility Forester information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$4

$23

$37

How much do utility forester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility forester in Rochester, NY is $23.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $26.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 do you become a utility forester?

To become a utility forester, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, followed by a bachelor's degree in forestry, environmental science, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing skills in tree identification and safety, and obtaining relevant certifications such as ISA Certified Arborist can improve job prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Utility Forester jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Utility Forester jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Utility Forester jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Forester jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Utility Forester jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Utility Forester job openings:

Infographic showing various Utility Forester job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,393 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Field Construction Manager- Forestry

LaBella Associates

Rochester, NY

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


LaBella Associates rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

186th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

We are currently hiring a Field Construction Manager in LaBella's Program Management Services Division at our client's office.

The Program Management Services Division at LaBella provides comprehensive management services for complex projects and multi-year capital programs. Project teams are established to provide a customized mix of business consulting, project management, financial control and monitoring, administrative, and technical support services.

Duties:

  • Assess tree health and encroachment on targeted sections of power line circuits.
  • Document and record on a mobile device any trees deemed as a hazard to construction and reliability.
  • Notify property owners of work being performed.
  • Assist in investigating and recommending future R-O-W maintenance requirements and subsequent supervision of crews performing any work prescribed.
  • Operate system forestry computer programs and record systems.
  • Communicate daily with the utility client, contractors, landowners and the general public.
  • Perform duties in a manner that will promote and maintain good public relations.

Assuming other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

  • Must be able to read maps, identify local tree species and understand growth rates.
  • Knowledgeable about Utility Vegetation Management practices.
  • Ability to hike ROW's and drive for extended periods of time required.
  • Must be able to work alone, outdoors in various weather conditions and terrain.
  • Must have exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, strong problem solving and multi-tasking abilities and show attention to detail.
  • Associate or Bachelors degree in Forestry, Environmental Science, or a related field preferred.
  • Six months or more direct UVM experience preferred (or equivalent forestry combined with civil work and tree trimming practices).
  • Prior experience with GIS software/technology, wetlands permitting a plus.
  • The ability and mobility to work in a field environment; to walk several miles per day, stand, sit, and operate a motor vehicle for prolonged periods of time; to frequently stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, run, crawl, climb, reach, twist, grasp and make a repetitive hand, arm and shoulder movement in the performance of daily duties (e.g., forcefully beat down brush); carry, push and/or pull light to heavy amounts of weight, frequently lift up to 10 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 60 lbs. (sandbags); to operate assigned equipment and vehicles; ability to verbally communicate to exchange information with public; ability to see and hear in normal range with or without correction; operate assigned field equipment, including handheld computer, range finder.
  • Work alone in an outdoor field environment; vehicle and foot patrol of utility power lines; remote locations as well as urban, city environment; physical demands and travel from site to site, including walking/hiking on various surfaces including flat, dry, wet, slippery, uneven, rough, steep terrain, hills, and slopes; exposure to noise, dust, grease, and all types of weather and temperature conditions; exposure to hazardous traffic conditions. Reasonable accommodation, if available, may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Benefits

Body, mind, and wallet-LaBella's benefits support a holistic approach to your health and wellness, creating the foundation for physical, mental, and financial well-being. Our benefit offerings cover the must-haves (healthcare and retirement), the just-in-cases (insurances and employee assistance programs), and the cherry-on-tops (fitness reimbursements, year-end incentive pay, and tuition assistance). Visit our website for more details on benefits listed below.

  • Flexible Work Schedule
  • Health/Dental Insurance
  • 401k Plan with Employer Match
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Short & Long Term Disability
  • Profit Sharing
  • Paid Time Off
  • Leadership Development Program
  • Fitness Reimbursement
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Referral Bonus Program
  • Wellness Program
  • Team Building Events
  • Community Service Events

LaBella is committed to facilitating a culture where diversity, equity, and inclusion are respected, valued, and celebrated by implementing thoughtful, practical, and innovative strategies that support our employees and serve the communities in which we reside. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws.

LaBella Associates does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiting professionals or agencies, nor do we accept resumes from any source that does not reference a specific, open position. LaBella Associates will not be responsible for any fees arising from the use of resumes submitted by recruiting professionals or agencies that do not have a current placement fee agreement with LaBella Associates. All initial communication with recruiting professionals or agencies must go through human resources.


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