Forestry Technician

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Work Tasks

• Help foresters protect forests by growing new trees and keeping them safe from insects and disease
• Collect data on forests such as how many trees there are, if the trees are diseased, and if there are conditions that may promote fires
• Help to survey forest borders and record data; decide which trees are ready to cut down
• Train others in how to plant trees, collect seed-cones, clear firebreaks and access roads, and maintain recreation facilities
• Work outdoors for the government, timber companies, tree farms, nurseries, and firms that offer forestry services
• Work with trees and plants, seed-cones, seedlings, tools and machines used to clear areas, transport equipment, computers, and data recorders

Salary, Size & Growth

• $30,000 average per year ($14.50 per hour)
• A medium occupation (39,300 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (0.9% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A 2-year degree in a related field
• Employers Prefer: A 4-year degree in forestry technology
• Skills/Courses: College courses include ecology, biology, tree physiology, taxonomy, forest inventory, wildlife habitat, land surveying, GPS technology, forest management, communications, math, statistics, and computer skills.
• Licensing/Certification: A license is needed to work with pesticides or chemicals. A license for surveying may be needed.