21111

Forestry professionals

TEER 1 — Usually require a university degree

Express Entry skill level: Yes
Regulated in Québec: Yes
In demand in Manitoba: No

Classification

Natural & applied sciences

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Definition

Forestry professionals conduct research, develop plans and administer and direct programs related to the management and harvesting of forest resources. They are employed by the forest industry, provincial and federal governments, consulting companies, educational institutions and other industries, or they may be self-employed.

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Plan and direct forest surveys and related studies and prepare reports and recommendations
Establish short- and long-term plans for management of forest lands and forest resources
Plan and direct woodlands harvesting, reforestation, silviculture and fire prevention and fire suppression programs, road building, wildlife management, environmental protection and insect and vegetation control programs
Negotiate terms and conditions of agreements and contracts for forest harvesting, forest management and leasing of forest lands
Monitor contract compliance and results of forestry activities
Ensure adherence to government regulations and company objectives
Plan and conduct public relations programs, and education and extension programs related to forestry
Develop and oversee programs for tree seedling production and woodlands nursery operations
Conduct advanced research in the areas of tree improvement, nursery seedling production, forest soils, forest ecology, forest mensuration, forest operations and other areas
Provide advice and recommendations, as a consultant on forestry issues, to private woodlot owners, municipal, provincial or federal governments or to companies.

Example job titles

•appraisal forester
•consulting forester
•district forester
•forester
•regional inventory officer - forestry
•registered professional forester (RPF)

Overview

Under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system, NOC 21111 designates Forestry professionals who conduct research, develop management plans, and administer programs related to the harvesting, stewardship, and preservation of forest resources. These professionals find employment across Canada within private forestry companies, provincial and federal government departments, consulting firms, and educational institutions. Key job titles under this classification include registered professional forester (RPF), forestry officer, forest pathologist, and consulting forester. Their primary responsibilities typically involve planning and directing forest surveys, establishing short- and long-term forest management plans, supervising silvicultural programs, and advising on forestry policies.

To qualify as a forestry professional under NOC 21111, strict educational and licensing guidelines must be met. Candidates are required to hold a bachelor's degree in forestry or forestry engineering. Additionally, in most provinces, practicing independently and using the title Registered Professional Forester (RPF) requires mandatory registration with a provincial professional foresters' association. This professional designation is critical for verifying credentials during the provincial nominee or licensing process after arriving in Canada.

As a TEER 1 occupation, forestry professionals are highly valued in Canada's Express Entry system, primarily through the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP). Given the vital economic role of forestry in provinces like British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec, candidates may also access specialized pathways under various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) looking to address regional labor shortages in resource management.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional immigration advice. For official guidance, consult Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or a regulated immigration professional.

Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.

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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.