How much does a forestry worker make?

In the United States, earnings vary with experience and useful skills or credentials, the employer, location, and duties such as planting or fire response. Part-time or seasonal schedules can mean fewer paid hours, while emergencies may bring extra hours; pesticide work may require state training or a license.

Under supervision, perform manual labor necessary to develop, maintain, or protect areas such as forests, forested areas, woodlands, wetlands, and rangelands through such activities as raising and transporting seedlings; combating insects, pests, and diseases harmful to plant life; and building structures to control water, erosion, and leaching of soil. Includes forester aides, seedling pullers, tree planters, and gatherers of nontimber forestry products such as pine straw.

What's a typical day like?

A forestry worker might hike through woods with a crew, plant seedlings or clear brush, then measure trees and check tools. Depending on the job, they may protect plants from pests, clear trails, or help build firebreaks.

In the United States, most forest workers finish high school, get a driver's license, and apply for an entry-level job. Employers train them on the job; some states require training or a license to apply commercial pesticides.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.

Some U.S. forestry workers tap trees to collect sap for making syrup—or even chemicals.