Position
Salary

How much does a Forester make?

The average salary for a Forester is $69,073 per year in the US.

Foresters play a key role in managing and protecting our natural resources. They work with trees and forests, ensuring they are healthy and sustainable. The average yearly salary for a forester is around $69,073. This means that, on average, a forester earns a good living. The salary can vary based on experience and location.


The salary for a forester can range from a low of $35,500 to a high of $117,500. This range shows that there are many opportunities for growth. Foresters with more experience and specialized skills often earn more. Some of the factors that can affect salary include education, certifications, and the specific job role. For example, a forester working for the government might earn a different salary than one working for a private company.

View Forester jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Forester?

Foresters in Eugene, OR, enjoy one of the highest salaries in the country, with an average of $87,379. This city offers a strong demand for forestry professionals, making it a lucrative place to work. Similarly, Chico, CA, provides a competitive average salary of $86,516, making it another attractive option for those seeking a rewarding career in forestry. Portland, OR, also stands out with an average salary of $81,986 for foresters. This city combines a vibrant job market with a high quality of life, appealing to many professionals. Washington, DC, offers a solid average salary of $71,534, providing a mix of professional opportunities and a unique urban environment.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Forester jobs, highlighting Eugene, OR with the highest at $87,379 and Jackson, MS with the lowest at $50,238.
  1. Eugene, OR
    Average Salary: $87,379
    In Eugene, professionals can work with the U.S. Forest Service. The area offers a mix of urban and natural settings. The climate supports diverse forestry projects.
    Find Forester jobs in Eugene, OR


  2. Chico, CA
    Average Salary: $86,516
    Chico provides a vibrant environment for forestry careers. The city's proximity to national forests offers many opportunities. Companies like Sierra Pacific Industries are prominent in the area.
    Find Forester jobs in Chico, CA


  3. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $81,986
    Portland is a hub for forestry jobs. The city values sustainable practices. Working here means engaging with innovative forestry projects and companies.
    Find Forester jobs in Portland, OR


  4. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $71,534
    In Washington, DC, forestry roles often involve government work. The city offers a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes. Professionals here contribute to national forestry policies.
    Find Forester jobs in Washington, DC


  5. Anchorage, AK
    Average Salary: $67,040
    Anchorage provides a challenging yet rewarding environment for forestry careers. The city's vast wilderness offers diverse opportunities. Working here means dealing with unique Alaskan forestry issues.
    Find Forester jobs in Anchorage, AK


  6. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $50,625
    Nashville offers a mix of urban and rural forestry opportunities. The city's growing interest in green spaces creates new roles. Forestry here often involves community projects.
    Find Forester jobs in Nashville, TN


  7. Jackson, MS
    Average Salary: $50,238
    In Jackson, forestry jobs focus on managing public lands and forests. The city's warm climate supports a variety of tree species. Working here means contributing to local and state forestry efforts.
    Find Forester jobs in Jackson, MS

What are the best companies a Forester can work for?

Foresters can find rewarding careers with top-paying companies. Sierra Pacific Industries offers an average salary of $89,768, making it a leading choice. Weyerhaeuser follows closely with an average salary of $89,012, providing another excellent opportunity.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Forester jobs, highlighting Sierra Pacific Industries with the highest at $89,768 and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension with the lowest at $54,333.
  1. Sierra Pacific Industries
    Average Salary: $89,768
    Sierra Pacific Industries offers a variety of Forester positions across the United States. They focus on sustainable forestry and provide a competitive salary. Locations include California, Oregon, and Washington.


  2. Weyerhaeuser
    Average Salary: $89,012
    Weyerhaeuser is a global leader in forestry. They offer Forester jobs with a strong focus on environmental stewardship. They operate in the United States, Canada, and Europe.


  3. MENDOCINO FOREST PRODUCTS COMPANY, LLC
    Average Salary: $83,332
    MENDOCINO FOREST PRODUCTS COMPANY, LLC provides Forester jobs with a focus on sustainable forestry. They offer a competitive salary and work in California.


  4. US Bureau of Land Management
    Average Salary: $82,990
    The US Bureau of Land Management offers Forester positions with a focus on public land management. They provide a stable salary and work across the United States.


  5. ACRT, Inc.
    Average Salary: $65,622
    ACRT, Inc. offers Forester jobs with a focus on forestry consulting. They provide a competitive salary and work in various states across the United States.


  6. State of Alaska
    Average Salary: $64,465
    The State of Alaska offers Forester positions with a focus on managing state forests. They provide a good salary and work in Alaska.


  7. State of Montana
    Average Salary: $62,814
    The State of Montana offers Forester jobs with a focus on managing state forests. They provide a competitive salary and work in Montana.


  8. State of Ohio
    Average Salary: $56,604
    The State of Ohio offers Forester positions with a focus on managing state forests. They provide a good salary and work in Ohio.


  9. Missouri Department of Conservation
    Average Salary: $54,409
    The Missouri Department of Conservation offers Forester jobs with a focus on conservation and forestry. They provide a competitive salary and work in Missouri.


  10. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
    Average Salary: $54,333
    Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers Forester positions with a focus on forestry education and outreach. They provide a good salary and work in Texas.

How to earn more as a Forester?

Becoming a Forester offers many opportunities for growth and increased earnings. Foresters manage and protect forests, ensuring they are healthy and productive. To earn more in this field, consider these key factors:

First, gaining advanced education can lead to higher-paying positions. A master's degree in forestry or a related field can open doors to management roles. Second, obtaining professional certifications can boost earning potential. Certifications from recognized bodies show expertise and dedication. Third, gaining experience in different types of forestry work can make a Forester more versatile and valuable. Fourth, specializing in a niche area, such as wildlife management or urban forestry, can lead to higher-paying jobs. Lastly, networking with other professionals can lead to job opportunities that offer better pay.

Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a Forester:

  1. Advanced education
  2. Professional certifications
  3. Diverse experience
  4. Specialization
  5. Networking

Currently 142 Forester job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Forester in the US?

Learn what a Forester does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Forester today.
Position
Overview
Forester
142 Job Openings