The job market in forestry is strong with respect to both permanent and seasonal employment. On average, 70-80% of seasonal Natural Resources job openings in northern California are for forestry technicians. Duties will vary, but generally include timber inventory and marking, harvest plan layout, ecosystem restoration work, and wildlife surveys. Today, this new forestry must focus on the ecosystem as a whole while realizing we still need to provide a myriad of values from our forests. Such values include biodiversity, clean air and water, and recreation in addition to wood products. By properly applying ecological principles to manage our forests, we can enhance biodiversity and lessen the impact of our consumption on forests around the world.
On average, seasonal forestry technicians are paid anywhere from $10-$15 per hour. Permanent jobs for qualified technicians start around $30,000 - $45,000 per year with benefits. Students who complete the A.S. degree in Forest Science and Technology, with the addition of CSU General Education courses, will be well prepared to transfer to a four-year degree at Humboldt State, Cal-Poly San Luis Obispo, or other out-of-state institutions such as the University of Idaho.
Students planning to transfer to a college or university should consult a counselor to select appropriate general education and elective courses that will meet the requirements of the chosen university program.
This degree is approved through the California Community College Chancellor’s Office. Upon satisfactory completion of all degree requirements and filing an application for graduation with Admissions and Records, the student’s transcript will reflect completion of this degree.