Forestry Careers

There are a wide variety of career paths in the forestry industry, with options such as operating heavy equipment, managing large stands of timber, even working as a research scientist.

This web page is designed to help you explore the options that are best for you, with information on job types, educational requirements and additional resources to get you started on your career path.

There are forestry career options for all levels of education. Many positions in the industry require only a high school diploma and on-the-job training, such as a number of forestry-related heavy equipment operator jobs. Other more specialized positions, such as a log truck driver, require that you receive certification through a vocational program.

National Organizations

National Alliance of Forest Owners

NAFO is a national advocacy organization committed to advancing federal policies that support privately-owned, sustainably-managed forests. It eductaes the public and leaders on the long-term benefits of forests from economic, social and environmental perspectives.

North American Forest Partnership

NAFP is spearheading a collaborative communications effort for the forest sector in the U.S. and Canada. Best known for its hashtag, #forestproud, it's on a mission to build trust and pride in the sector.

National Association of State Foresters

NASF serves state foresters throughout the U.S. and focuses on national-level legisaltion, policies and partnerships in the industry. For students, this is a great resource to keep up with the latest forestry issues and news and includes a job board for state and national forestry careers.

National Forest Foundation

NFF is focused on promoting the health and enjoyment of America's national forests and grasslands. The organization's website is a good place to learn about various conservation studies and initiatives. NFF also awards a number of grants each year.

Society of American Foresters

SAF is one of the larger organizations for professional foresters. Its focus is on sustainable forest management, education and moving the field of forestry forward. It offers certification and educational programs and hosts networking events. SAF also has students chapters at most forestry schools.

State Forestry Associations

State forestry associations are another great resource for state-specific data and initaitives. The following are associations Rayonier works with:

Alabama Forestry Commission

AFC's mission is to protect forests, serve and help landowners to carry out responsible forest management, and to educate the public about the importance of forests in both the economy and the environment.

Florida Forestry Association

FFA brings together those who grow and those who use Florida’s forests with a mission is to promote the responsible and sustainable use of Florida’s forest resources. Its goals are to foster regulatory, economic, and social climates that allow the forest community to thrive.

Georgia Forestry Association

GFA is an advocate for forest landowners, forest product manufacturers and forestry-related businesses, focused on ensuring the long-term sustainability of Georgia forestry. It promotes the value of Georgia's working forests and forest industries and strives to educate leaders about responsible forest management practices and landowner rights.

Louisiana Forestry Association

LFA promotes the health and productivity of Louisiana's forests with an emphasis on sustainable forestry. It informs the public about the industry, helps private landowners learn best practices in forest management and reforestation, and educates public school students about wise forest use.

Oklahoma Forestry Association

OFA champions the value of healthy forests and encourages the use of high ethical standards within the industry. It encourages the wise use of all forest-related resources and works to develop public appreciation for the aesthetic, environmental and economic value of Oklahoma's forests.

Oregon Forest & Industries Council

OFIC represents more than 50 Oregon forestland owners and forest products manufacturers and works with policy makers, community leaders and advocacy organizations. It promotes the industry's important role in delivering economic and environmental benefits whie balancing the sustainable use of forest resources.

Oregon Forest Resources Institute

OFRI promotes environmentally sound forestry practices through educational and training programs. Created by the Oregon legislature, it also champions collaboration between forest scientists, public agencies, community organizations, conservation groups and land owners. 

Texas Forestry Association

TFA promotes a climate that advances forestry economically, socially and politically. It uses education, policial action and public relations to promote a better understanding of forest conservation practices throughout the state.