Forest Manager

Sustainably Harvest Your Career Potential - Become a Forest Manager

About

A forest manager is a professional who manages and conserves forest lands for ecological, economic and social benefits. The primary role of a forest manager is to ensure the sustainable use of forests and their resources while protecting them from environmental degradation and other threats. The manager is responsible for developing and implementing forest management plans that are sustainable, economically viable and environmentally friendly.

Moreover, a forest manager manages the natural resources found in forests such as timber, water and wildlife. They must ensure that these resources are utilised sustainably and that the forest's biodiversity is maintained. The specific job duties may vary depending on the employing agency, the type of forest and the individual's qualifications as well as experience.

Eligibility

For Bachelor’s

  • To start the career as a forest manager, aspirants must clear their 10+2 board level examination by scoring a minimum of 60% marks. 
  • Other than this, the scholars must pursue 10+2 classes from a recognised institute including PCB/PCM/PCMB, to enrol in the Bachelor's degree in any recognised educational institute. 
  • The candidates can apply for a Bachelor's degree such as B.Sc. in Forestry. 

For Master’s

  • The seekers are suggested to pursue a Master’s degree to get a high commissioned job role in the forestry department. 
  • One can pursue M.Sc in Forestry from an authorised college or university.

Job Roles

A forest manager manages and conserves forest lands for ecological, economic and social benefits. Here are some of the job roles and responsibilities of a forest manager:

  • Forest Management Planning
  • Natural Resource Management
  • Forest Conservation
  • Forest Inventory
  • Stakeholder Engagement
  • Supervision
  • Administration
  • Research

Employment Sector Jobs

A forest manager can find employment in various sectors that require expertise in forestry and forest management. Some of the employment sector jobs of a forest manager are:

  • Educational Institutes
  • Seed and Nursery Companies
  • Forest Services
  • Food Companies
  • Land Management Agencies
  • Plant Resources Laboratories
  • Biotechnology Firms
  • Biological Supply Houses
  • Chemical Industry 

Top Recruiters

Here are some of the top recruiters of forest managers:

  • Government Agencies
  • Private Forest Owners
  • NGOs and Non-Profit Organisations
  • Consulting Firms
  • Research and Academic Institutions
  • International Organisations

Salary

The salary of a forest manager varies depending on various factors such as location, employment sector, qualifications, experience and job responsibilities. Here are some approximate salary ranges of forest managers in India:

 

Entry-level Forest Manager  

Approx 2 lakhs - 3 lakhs per annum

Senior Forest Manager  

Approx 4 lakhs - 6 lakhs per annum

Top-level Forest Manager  

Approx 7 lakhs - 10 lakhs per annum

Skills

  • Knowledge of Forest Ecosystems
  • Forest Management Planning
  • Communication Skills
  • Leadership Skills
  • Technical Skills
  • Problem Solving
  • Environmental Law and Regulations

Scope

The scope of a career in forest management is broad and varied, with multiple opportunities for forest managers to work in various sectors and roles. With a growing emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainable development, the demand for forest managers is expected to increase in the coming years. Here are some of the potential areas where forest managers can work:

  • Government Agencies
  • NGOs and Non-Profit Organisations
  • Private Forest Owners
  • Consulting Firms
  • Research and Academic Institutions

Benefits

A career in forest management can offer a range of benefits. Here are some of the benefits of being a forest manager:

  • Job Satisfaction
  • Varied Opportunities
  • Job Security
  • Competitive Salaries
  • Chance to Work Outdoors
  • Opportunity for Travel
  • Opportunity to Make a Difference

Drawbacks

While there are many benefits to a career in forest management, there are also some potential drawbacks. Here are some of the challenges that forest managers may face:

  • Working in Isolation
  • Physically Demanding Work
  • Safety Risks
  • Limited Career Progression
  • Conflicting Priorities
  • Political Interference
  • Climate Change