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Farming & Fishing · Illinois

How to Become a Forest and Conservation Workers in Illinois

Forest and Conservation Workers in Illinois earn a median salary of $64,430/year, which is 48% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a forest and conservation workers takes home approximately $2,798/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$64K
Median salary in Illinois
+48%
vs. national average
4.9%
State income tax
60
Employed in Illinois

What a forest and conservation workers can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$64,430
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.9% state tax)$4,210/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home33.5% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$64,430/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,798/mo

Becoming a forest and conservation workers in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Forest and Conservation Workers positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many forest and conservation workers positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Illinois licensure or certification

Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for forest and conservation workerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Illinois

Illinois employs 60 forest and conservation workers. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin.

Forest and Conservation Workers salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$56K$26.82/hr70

Forest and Conservation Workers salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$47K
25th percentile
$56K
Median (50th)
$64K
75th percentile
$88K
90th percentile (senior)
$88K
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Forest and Conservation Workers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a forest and conservation workers make in Illinois?

The median forest and conservation workers salary in Illinois is $64,430 per year ($30.98/hr). This is 48% above the national median of $43,680. Salaries range from $47,070 to $87,840.

What are the requirements to become a forest and conservation workers in Illinois?

Forest and Conservation Workers positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a forest and conservation workers afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $64,430, a forest and conservation workers in Illinois would take home approximately $4,210/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for forest and conservation workers in Illinois?

The highest paying metro areas for forest and conservation workers in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($55,790). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Illinois have state income tax for forest and conservation workers?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $64,430 salary, this means roughly $3,189/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.