Position
Salary

How much does a Forester make?

The average salary for a Forester is $68,849 per year in the US.

Foresters play a vital role in managing and protecting natural resources. They work in various settings, from government agencies to private companies. The average yearly salary for a forester is around $68,849. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer.


The salary range for foresters can be quite broad. At the lower end, a forester might earn about $35,582 per year. As experience and expertise grow, salaries can rise significantly. The top earners in this field can make over $110,000 annually. Factors like advanced degrees, specialized skills, and working in high-demand areas can boost earnings even further. Foresters who advance to management or consulting roles often see higher salaries as well.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Forester?

Foresters can find some of the best-paying jobs in Eugene, OR, where the average salary reaches $92,172. This city offers a strong demand for forestry professionals, making it a prime location for those in the field. Another top city is Chico, CA, with an average salary of $86,465, providing a lucrative opportunity for foresters looking to advance their careers. In addition to these, cities like Portland, OR, and Washington, DC, also offer competitive salaries for foresters, with averages of $82,144 and $72,674, respectively. These cities combine attractive compensation with a variety of professional growth opportunities.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Forester jobs, highlighting Eugene, OR with the highest at $92,172 and Houston, TX with the lowest at $44,257.
  1. Eugene, OR
    Average Salary: $92,172
    In Eugene, professionals can find rewarding work with the Oregon Department of Forestry. The city's commitment to environmental conservation makes it a great place for those passionate about forestry. The mild climate and beautiful natural surroundings add to the appeal of this career.
    Find Forester jobs in Eugene, OR


  2. Chico, CA
    Average Salary: $86,465
    Chico offers a dynamic environment for forestry careers. Working with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection provides opportunities to protect and manage the state's vast forest resources. The area's natural beauty and outdoor activities make it a desirable place to live and work.
    Find Forester jobs in Chico, CA


  3. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $82,144
    Portland is a hub for forestry jobs, with many opportunities in urban forestry and conservation. Companies like the Bureau of Land Management offer roles that focus on sustainable practices. The city's green initiatives and commitment to the environment create a supportive workplace for forestry professionals.
    Find Forester jobs in Portland, OR


  4. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $72,674
    In Washington, DC, forestry roles often involve working with federal agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service. Professionals here play a key role in national forest management and policy development. The city's political environment offers unique opportunities for advocacy and leadership in forestry.
    Find Forester jobs in Washington, DC


  5. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $57,548
    Dallas provides a growing market for forestry professionals. Companies like Texas A&M Forest Service offer roles in forest management and wildfire prevention. The city's diverse climate and large urban parks create a dynamic setting for those in this field.
    Find Forester jobs in Dallas, TX


  6. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $50,625
    Nashville offers a mix of forestry jobs in both urban and rural settings. Working with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture provides opportunities to manage state forests and promote conservation. The city's strong community focus and natural attractions make it an appealing place to work.
    Find Forester jobs in Nashville, TN


  7. Jackson, MS
    Average Salary: $48,227
    In Jackson, forestry careers focus on managing public lands and promoting sustainable practices. The Mississippi Forestry Commission offers roles that support forest health and community development. The city's rich history and natural beauty provide a unique backdrop for this work.
    Find Forester jobs in Jackson, MS


  8. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $44,257
    Houston offers a variety of forestry positions, particularly in urban forestry and environmental management. Companies like the Texas A&M Forest Service provide opportunities to work on large-scale projects. The city's diverse ecosystems and commitment to green initiatives create a vibrant environment for forestry professionals.
    Find Forester jobs in Houston, TX

What are the best companies a Forester can work for?

Foresters can find rewarding opportunities with top-paying companies. Sierra Pacific Industries offers the highest average salary at $90,150. Weyerhaeuser follows closely with an average salary of $85,693. These companies provide excellent benefits and career growth.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Forester jobs, highlighting Sierra Pacific Industries with the highest at $90,150 and State of Florida with the lowest at $50,804.
  1. Sierra Pacific Industries
    Average Salary: $90,150
    Sierra Pacific Industries offers rewarding Forester jobs with a focus on sustainable forestry. They operate in various locations across the United States, including California, Oregon, and Washington. Their commitment to environmental stewardship makes it an excellent choice for those passionate about forestry.


  2. Weyerhaeuser
    Average Salary: $85,693
    Weyerhaeuser provides Forester jobs with a strong emphasis on forest management and conservation. They have operations in the Pacific Northwest, the Southeast, and the South Central regions. The company's dedication to sustainable practices offers a dynamic environment for forestry professionals.


  3. MENDOCINO FOREST PRODUCTS COMPANY, LLC
    Average Salary: $84,465
    MENDOCINO FOREST PRODUCTS COMPANY, LLC offers Forester jobs with a focus on timberland management and sustainable forestry. They operate in Northern California, providing opportunities to work in beautiful natural settings. The company values environmental responsibility and community involvement.


  4. State of Alaska
    Average Salary: $65,426
    The State of Alaska offers Forester jobs with a focus on managing vast and diverse forest lands. They operate throughout the state, providing opportunities for those who enjoy working in remote and rugged environments. The role involves ensuring the sustainable use of Alaska's rich natural resources.


  5. ACRT, Inc.
    Average Salary: $62,708
    ACRT, Inc. offers Forester jobs with a focus on forest management and conservation. They operate in the Pacific Northwest, providing opportunities for those who want to work in a collaborative and innovative environment. The company emphasizes sustainable forestry practices and community involvement.


  6. State of Montana
    Average Salary: $62,614
    The State of Montana offers Forester jobs with a focus on managing diverse forest ecosystems. They operate throughout the state, providing opportunities for those who enjoy working in a variety of natural settings. The role involves ensuring the sustainable use of Montana's rich forest resources.


  7. State of Ohio
    Average Salary: $57,204
    The State of Ohio offers Forester jobs with a focus on forest management and conservation. They operate throughout the state, providing opportunities for those who want to work in a supportive and collaborative environment. The role involves ensuring the sustainable use of Ohio's forest resources.


  8. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
    Average Salary: $54,333
    Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers Forester jobs with a focus on research and education. They operate in Texas, providing opportunities for those who want to work in a dynamic and educational environment. The role involves supporting forest management practices and community outreach.


  9. Commonwealth of Kentucky
    Average Salary: $53,028
    The Commonwealth of Kentucky offers Forester jobs with a focus on managing diverse forest lands. They operate throughout the state, providing opportunities for those who enjoy working in a variety of natural settings. The role involves ensuring the sustainable use of Kentucky's forest resources.


  10. State of Florida
    Average Salary: $50,804
    The State of Florida offers Forester jobs with a focus on managing diverse forest ecosystems. They operate throughout the state, providing opportunities for those who want to work in a supportive and collaborative environment. The role involves ensuring the sustainable use of Florida's forest resources.

How to earn more as a Forester?

Becoming a Forester offers many opportunities to grow and earn more. Foresters manage and protect forests and natural resources. They can increase their earnings by gaining more experience and education. This can lead to higher-paying positions and more responsibilities.

Here are some ways to earn more as a Forester:

  1. Get more education: Foresters can earn more by getting advanced degrees. A master's degree in forestry or a related field can open up higher-paying jobs. It can also lead to roles in research, policy, or education.
  2. Gain experience: Experience is key to earning more. Working in the field for several years can lead to promotions and higher pay. Foresters can also earn more by working in different areas, such as wildlife management or urban forestry.
  3. Specialize: Specializing in a specific area can make a Forester more valuable. Areas like forest management, conservation, or timber sales can offer higher pay. Foresters can also earn more by getting certifications in these areas.
  4. Work for the government: Government jobs often offer higher pay and better benefits. Foresters can work for federal, state, or local governments. They can also work for private companies that manage public lands.
  5. Move to higher-paying areas: Some areas pay Foresters more than others. Urban areas or regions with high demand for forestry services may offer higher salaries. Foresters can also earn more by working in industries with higher pay, such as consulting or timber sales.

Currently 169 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.
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Forester
169 Job Openings