Forester

Job Details: Job Location: UNDEWA COGO

• Underwood, WA, Salary Range: $50000.00 - $95000.00Salary, American Forest Management (AFM) is seeking a motivated Forester to join our Columbia Gorge District. This is an opportunity to build a rewarding forestry career in one of the Pacific Northwest's most scenic and productive forest regions while gaining experience across a wide range of forest management activities. Our district manages a diverse portfolio of forestlands and projects, offering hands-on experience in silviculture, reforestation, timber harvest operations, road management, GIS, forest planning, and client relations. Whether you're an early-career forester ready to learn or an experienced professional looking for greater responsibility, you'll find opportunities to grow, take ownership, and make a meaningful impact. At AFM, we believe great forestry starts with great people. We provide mentorship, invest in professional development, and foster a supportive, team-oriented culture where people take pride in their work and enjoy working together. We can teach technical skills and develop expertise; what matters most is initiative, curiosity, accountability, and a willingness to take ownership.

Position Summary

The Forester will assist with and manage forest management activities throughout Washington and Oregon, with responsibilities tailored to the selected candidate's experience and qualifications. The position level (Forester I, II, or III) will be determined based on education, experience, and demonstrated capabilities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Plan and implement forest management activities, including silviculture, reforestation, vegetation management, and young stand management. Plan, permit, and administer timber harvest operations. Coordinate contractors and oversee field operations to ensure quality, safety, and efficiency. Support forest road construction, maintenance, and access planning.

Conduct property inspections, stand exams, timber cruises, and project monitoring. Use GIS, mapping tools, and resource management software to support planning and decision-making. Prepare management plans, budgets, harvest schedules, reports, and client recommendations. Monitor compliance with applicable state and federal forestry regulations.

Communicate with clients, support field reviews and tours, and contribute to business development. Promote sustainable forest management and responsible stewardship. Desired Qualifications Candidates should possess a combination of the following: Associate's or bachelor's degree in Forestry, Natural Resources, Forest Engineering, or a related field.

Experience ranging from entry-level forestry work to advanced professional practice. Knowledge of or interest in silviculture, reforestation, forest health, vegetation management, and timber harvest operations. Working knowledge of GIS software and Microsoft Office. Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to manage multiple projects and follow work through to completion. Experience with contractor oversight, budgeting, project administration, or client relations is a plus. Washington and/or Oregon Pesticide Applicator License preferred. Valid driver's license and ability to travel safely on forest roads and remote work sites.

What We're Looking For

Our district operates with a high degree of autonomy and responsibility. We're looking for someone who takes initiative, works independently, makes informed decisions, and moves projects forward without constant direction. Success here is less about years of experience and more about attitude, accountability, and a commitment to growth.

We're willing to invest in the right person and help them develop the technical skills needed to succeed. In return, we value someone who is dependable, adaptable, eager to learn, proud of their work, and committed to seeing projects through. Why Join the Columbia Gorge District? No two weeks are exactly alike. You'll have the opportunity to work across nearly every aspect of private forestry, including: Silvicultural planning, reforestation, and vegetation management Timber harvest administration and forest inventory GIS, mapping, and forest planning Road construction, maintenance, and access management Client relationships and sustainable forest management You'll gain meaningful responsibility, work alongside experienced forestry professionals, and build the technical and professional skills needed for a long-term career.

Work Environment This position combines office and field responsibilities, with substantial time spent on timberlands throughout Washington and Oregon. Candidates should be comfortable traveling independently, navigating forest roads, traversing steep or uneven terrain, and working outdoors in varied weather conditions and active forestry operations.

Occasional overnight travel may be required.

Compensation

and Benefits Compensation will be based on qualifications, experience, and position level (Forester I, II, or III). AFM offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including: Expected salary range: $50,000 - $95,000, commensurate with experience. This is a salaried position offering the potential for overtime pay based on position level, operational needs, and additional hours worked beyond the standard work schedule.

Company-provided vehicle with personal use Eligible for annual and new business bonus opportunities Medical, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with company matching contributions Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave Paid parental leave Professional development, continuing education, and industry training Educational Assistance Reimbursement Program Certification support and advancement opportunities Why AFM?

AFM combines the resources and opportunities of a national forestry consulting firm with the culture and flexibility of a close-knit local team. We take pride in delivering exceptional results for our clients while creating an environment where employees are trusted, supported, and encouraged to grow. If you're looking for a forestry career where you can take ownership, make an impact, develop professionally, and enjoy the people you work with, we'd love to hear from you.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or national origin. Qualifications: