Position
Salary

How much does a Forester make?

The average salary for a Forester is $69,247 per year in the US.

A Forester cares for forests, ensuring they stay healthy and safe. This important job brings many rewards. Foresters earn a decent income for their work. The average yearly salary for a Forester is $69,247. This number helps understand what many Foresters earn across the country.

Foresters can expect to earn a range of salaries. Here are some examples:

  • 10% of Foresters earn $36,000 or less per year.
  • 25% earn between $36,000 and $43,536.
  • 50% earn between $43,536 and $66,145.
  • 75% earn between $66,145 and $88,755.
  • 90% earn between $88,755 and $103,827.
Experience and education often play a big role in a Forester's salary.

View Forester jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Forester?

Forester jobs offer competitive salaries in several cities. Eugene, Oregon, leads with an average salary of $93,483. This city provides a strong market for foresters, offering a high earning potential. Additionally, Chico, California, follows closely with an average salary of $87,384. Job seekers might find good opportunities in these locations. Portland, Oregon, offers a solid average salary of $82,144. Washington, DC, and Nashville, Tennessee, also provide attractive salaries for foresters. These cities reflect the demand for professionals who can manage and protect forest resources.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Forester jobs, highlighting Eugene, OR with the highest at $93,483 and Houston, TX with the lowest at $43,937.
  1. Eugene, OR
    Average Salary: $93,483
    In Eugene, Oregon, you can work among lush forests and scenic landscapes. Companies like the Oregon Department of Forestry and private timber firms offer rewarding roles. Enjoy the outdoor lifestyle and sustainable forestry practices.
    Find Forester jobs in Eugene, OR


  2. Chico, CA
    Average Salary: $87,384
    Chico, California, offers a chance to manage natural resources in a beautiful environment. Employers such as the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection provide opportunities. Collaborate with a team dedicated to forest conservation and community outreach.
    Find Forester jobs in Chico, CA


  3. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $82,144
    Portland, Oregon, combines vibrant city life with green spaces. Positions with agencies like the U.S. Forest Service are available. Work on projects that protect the environment and enhance urban greenery. Enjoy a city known for its love of nature.
    Find Forester jobs in Portland, OR


  4. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $73,615
    In Washington, DC, you can influence national forestry policies. Work with federal agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Combine science and policy to make a difference in forest management on a national level.
    Find Forester jobs in Washington, DC


  5. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $50,499
    Nashville, Tennessee, offers a mix of natural beauty and urban amenities. Roles with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Forest Service are available. Enjoy the chance to work in diverse environments while promoting forestry initiatives.
    Find Forester jobs in Nashville, TN


  6. Jackson, MS
    Average Salary: $48,227
    Jackson, Mississippi, provides opportunities to manage diverse forest ecosystems. Companies like the Mississippi Forestry Commission and private land management firms offer solid positions. Contribute to sustainable practices in a state rich in natural resources.
    Find Forester jobs in Jackson, MS


  7. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $43,937
    In Houston, Texas, work with companies focused on urban and rural forestry. The Texas A&M Forest Service and private forestry firms provide various roles. Enjoy the energy of a growing city while promoting forest conservation and land management.
    Find Forester jobs in Houston, TX

What are the best companies a Forester can work for?

For those seeking a high-paying forester role, Sierra Pacific Industries leads the pack with an average salary of $90,105. ACRT, Inc. and Weyerhaeuser follow closely behind, offering salaries around $86,759 and $85,424 respectively. These companies provide attractive compensation packages for professionals in forestry management. State and government agencies also offer competitive salaries, with State of Alaska, State of Montana, and State of Ohio providing average salaries of $63,581, $62,042, and $57,551. These roles may offer different perks and benefits, making them viable options for those who value public service.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Forester jobs, highlighting Sierra Pacific Industries with the highest at $90,105 and State of Florida with the lowest at $50,956.
  1. Sierra Pacific Industries
    Average Salary: $90,105
    Sierra Pacific Industries offers rewarding careers in forestry. They manage and protect large forests in the U.S. and Canada. Their locations include states like California, Idaho, and Oregon. Foresters here focus on sustainable forest management, biodiversity, and wildlife habitats.


  2. ACRT, Inc.
    Average Salary: $86,759
    ACRT, Inc. is known for its forest management and conservation projects. They operate in several states, including Washington and Oregon. Foresters at ACRT work to maintain healthy forests. They also promote sustainable practices. This company values experienced professionals committed to environmental stewardship.


  3. Weyerhaeuser
    Average Salary: $85,424
    Weyerhaeuser is a major player in the forestry industry. They have a strong presence across the U.S. and Canada. Foresters here focus on timber production, forest management, and conservation. They work in diverse environments to ensure sustainable practices.


  4. MENDOCINO FOREST PRODUCTS COMPANY, LLC
    Average Salary: $83,542
    MENDOCINO FOREST PRODUCTS COMPANY, LLC offers dynamic forestry roles. They operate in California. Foresters manage and protect redwood forests. They also work on sustainable forestry practices. The company provides a stable environment for professionals dedicated to forest conservation.


  5. State of Alaska
    Average Salary: $63,581
    The State of Alaska provides forestry jobs with a focus on the state's vast forests. Foresters work on managing and protecting these natural resources. They also research and implement conservation practices. Locations include various regions across Alaska.


  6. State of Montana
    Average Salary: $62,042
    The State of Montana offers forestry positions focused on managing public lands. Foresters here work to maintain healthy forests. They also promote sustainable forestry practices. Locations include various areas across Montana.


  7. State of Ohio
    Average Salary: $57,551
    The State of Ohio provides forestry jobs with a focus on urban and rural forest management. Foresters here manage state forests and parks. They also promote conservation and sustainability. Locations include different regions across Ohio.


  8. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
    Average Salary: $54,364
    Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers forestry roles that focus on education and outreach. Foresters work with landowners and communities. They provide advice on forest management and conservation. Locations include Texas and other parts of the U.S.


  9. State of Arkansas
    Average Salary: $52,882
    The State of Arkansas offers forestry positions that focus on managing state forests. Foresters here work to maintain healthy forest ecosystems. They also engage in conservation efforts. Locations include various regions across Arkansas.


  10. State of Florida
    Average Salary: $50,956
    The State of Florida provides forestry jobs with a focus on managing state forests and parks. Foresters here ensure the health and sustainability of these natural resources. They also promote conservation. Locations include various areas across Florida.

How to earn more as a Forester?

Becoming a forester can lead to a rewarding career in nature conservation and land management. To earn more, focus on these key areas:

First, consider earning a higher degree. Foresters with a Master's or Ph.D. often earn more. A degree shows deeper knowledge and skills. Second, gain certifications. Certifications in areas like wildlife management can increase pay. Third, seek experience. More experience often leads to higher pay. Fourth, work for the right employer. Some employers, like government agencies, pay more. Finally, consider specializing. Specializing in areas like forestry management can lead to higher pay.

To improve earnings, foresters can follow these steps. Higher education, extra certifications, more experience, working for top employers, and specialization all help. Focus on these areas to increase your salary.

Currently 145 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
145 Job Openings