How to become foresterseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$76,400
25th–75th pct. $62,710–$91,640
Top pay (est.)
$142,600
Top 10% $109,700
Pay in 5 years
$87,400est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$100,000est.
$86,000–$116,100
Outlook score
50/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
56%
Moderate
Job growth (10 yr)
+2.2%
900 openings / yr
How to become foresters
Typical education
Bachelor's degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Foresters
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsPerforming General Physical ActivitiesGetting InformationCommunicating with People Outside the OrganizationEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeProcessing Information
Important abilities
Oral ExpressionOral ComprehensionDeductive ReasoningWritten ComprehensionWritten ExpressionInductive Reasoning
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 4 — considerable preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★★☆☆ Moderate (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as foresters
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.