An office job in a skyscraper might appeal to some people, but others would prefer a job that doesn’t require prolonged desk-sitting. Many articles, including this one from Harvard University, outline the negative health effects of prolonged sitting. Having a job that allows you to be active while working will help you to avoid the downsides of sitting.
If you want to be freed from a typical office job, have a look at these more active alternatives available in the forest sector:
1. Forester/Forest Technologist
Description: Foresters and forest technologists manage our forests to make sure we maintain a balance between human needs (products, jobs, recreation, etc.) and the needs of a thriving ecosystem. And there is a bonus: they get to spend a lot of time outside.
What You Need: Foresters go to university for 4 years, and forest technologists study for 2 years. There are two forestry programs in Alberta:
- Forest Management (University of Alberta)
- Forest Technology (NAIT)
After completing a forestry program, you will have to register as a Registered Professional Forester (RPF) or Registered Professional Forest Technologist (RPFT).
More Info and How to Apply: Once you are a registered forestry professional, you can find forestry jobs on these websites:
2. Skilled Tradesperson
Description: Skilled tradespeople are integral to the manufacturing of wood products. These mechanical wizards install, maintain, and repair the machinery that transports and processes anything from paper to lumber to plywood. In the forest industry, there is particular need for millwrights, electricians, heavy-duty mechanics, welders, instrumentation technicians, and sawfilers.
What You Need: Completion of a 2-4 year apprenticeship, dependent upon your chosen trade.
More Info and How to Apply: Learn more about Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training.
3. Production Labourer
Description: Production labourers work hard to ensure wood product manufacturing runs smoothly. After acquiring some experience, a hard-working, motivated production labourer has the opportunity to be trained in various skilled roles in the mill.
What You Need: A high school diploma and a desire to work with your hands.
More Info and How to Apply: Forestry companies across Alberta hire labourers. Check our Job Postings page regularly to apply. Positions may have other titles, including “Entry Level Mill Positions” and “Sawmill Labourers”.
4. Wildland Firefighter
Description: Fighting forest fires is a demanding but rewarding experience, requiring people committed to teamwork, safety, and fitness. Wildland firefighting offers the chance to see different and remote areas of the province and to assist in preserving Alberta’s natural resources. These summer positions can pay very well and have the potential to turn into year-round work in wildfire management.
What You Need:
- Good health and physical fitness
- Standard first aid certificate with CPR
- Driver’s license
- Defensive driving certificate
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of intense training program
More Info and How to Apply: Visit wildfire.alberta.ca.
5. Tree Planter
Description: Tree planting is a tough job for only the toughest of people. Tree planters deal with unpleasant weather, incessant insects, blisters, physically exhausting work, and long hours. If you’re not scared away yet, this might be the summer job for you. And if you plan it right, you can extend that summer work by planting in multiple regions with different planting seasons. Tree planters are paid for every tree they plant, making it a great job for people motivated by productivity.
What You Need: Tree planters must be 18 years of age or older. They must also be willing to work very hard.
More Info and How to Apply: Visit tree-planter.com for application tips and job postings.
Having a physically active job can make a day of work fly by. Being active throughout the day is also beneficial for your health. The best part? If you can find a job that gets you up out of your desk regularly, you might be able to get away with fewer post-work gym visits.
