Skip to main content

Forest Engineer Career Profile

Description

Forest engineers are behind the scenes of every forestry operation. Companies have different goals for forest engineers. Some engineers design roads and bridges for logging operations while others design the logging equipment itself. Engineers look for ways to incorporate new technologies to optimize the production and transport of lumber.

Abilities/Personality

    • Creative
    • Independent
    • Persistent

Salary

Median $90,000  $60,000 – $150,000

Outlook (2018 – 2032)

+ 7%

Education / Training

High School diploma

4 Year degree in engineering with a minor in forestry or specific program for forestry engineering.

High School Courses to take

    • Plant Science
    • Calculus
    • College Credits
    • Forestry
    • Engineering

Work Environment

Forest engineers spend a lot of time in the office drafting and revising plans however sometimes they must head into the forest to test ideas and equipment. Forest engineers must communicate with all the people involved in a project and work to design solutions to problems.

Skills

    • Use CAD and other design software
    • Understand industry and address complex issues with multiple variables
    • Apply mathematics
    • Write and speak clearly
    • Visualize and problem solve

Responsibilities

    • Design roads, bridges, and logging infrastructure
    • Follow standards and regulations
    • Integrate new technologies
    • Design equipment and repairs
    • Balance company needs with environmental impact

Explore More