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Forestry professionals

A forester in the field is seen writing on a clipboard with large yellow machinery in the background

Forestry professionals

Foresters

Help manage Michigan’s state forests for a rewarding career in natural resources. A professional forester’s diverse job duties may include inspecting sites, collecting data, overseeing environmental restoration projects and marking timber in the field. Foresters will also develop forest treatment plans through the inventory process, prepare timber sale bid packages and evaluate proposals in an office setting. 

Position information

  • Pay rate of $24.30 - $44.52
  • Work 40 hours per week
  • This position requires a bachelor's degree in forestry.
    A bachelor's degree in a natural resources field with no less than 24 semester (36 term) credits in forestry may be substituted for the education requirement.

Western Upper Peninsula application

Eastern Upper Peninsula application

Western Lower Peninsula application

Eastern Lower Peninsula application

Forester position description

Forest technicians

Join the DNR in this technician role for varied job duties in field and office settings. Participate in fire management, timber sale preparation, forest inventory and equipment operation to gain experience in a variety of forest management activities. 

Position information:

  • Pay rate of $20 - $35.85
  • Work 40 hours per week
  • This position requires an associate’s degree in Forest Technology, or 2 years of college with 24 semester credits in forestry
  • Forest technicians must pass a fitness test to qualify for service

Western Upper Peninsula application

Eastern Upper Peninsula application

Western Lower Peninsula application

Eastern Lower Peninsula application

Forest technician position description

Forestry students

Step into the world of forestry and start building a professional resume as a DNR forestry student. Under the direction of career foresters and forest technicians, forestry students will perform a variety of duties related to forest management. Students will receive training, mentorship and opportunities to kickstart a natural resources career; successful student placements are a great path to finding a professional position in the DNR.

Position information:

  • Pay rate of $22.52
  • Work up to 129 hours per month
  • Students must be enrolled in a forestry or natural resources program

Image from the Michigan State University Department of Forestry

Forestry student position description