Foresters
O*NET 19-1032.00 · SOC 19-1032
Forester is a solid career choice. Median pay is $76k a year with +2.2% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 900 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Survey forest land to assess timber volume and health
- →Develop plans for reforestation after logging or wildfires
- →Monitor forests for signs of disease, pests, or damage
- →Approve and oversee timber harvesting operations on forest land
- →Prepare reports on forest conditions for land managers
Education & How to Get In
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Forester roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Forester involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Forester?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Forester Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Foresters is projected to grow 2.2% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·29% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Forester make?
The median Forester earns $76k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Forester jobs?
Our model puts Forester at 37 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 29% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Forester a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 2.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 900 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Forester?
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Forester roles, and relevant internships matter as much as the subject.
How long does it take to become a Forester?
Typically about four years, typically a bachelor's degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 4 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Forester career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →Free to take · Matches $9 · No account required · 7 minutes