Conservation Scientist

Your Fit

Income

$68K

Preparation

Considerable

Growth

4.1%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Conservation Scientist?

A Conservation Scientist manages the overall land quality of forests, parks, rangelands, and other natural resources. They focus on conserving these habitats while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and balancing public and ecological interests.

Sample job titles:

Conservationist, Land Resource Specialist, Research Soil Scientist, Resource Conservationist

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Conservation Scientist.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Conservation Scientist earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$45K per year	$53K per year	$68K per year	$88K per year	$108K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $18K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Conservation Scientist do?

Work environment

Conservation Scientists typically work for government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or private landowners. They spend a lot of time in outdoor environments, such as forests and parks, conducting fieldwork, but also work in offices for planning, analysis, and coordination. Some may engage in extensive travel to different sites.

Quick task list

Develops and implements strategies for land conservation and resource management.
Conducts research and field surveys to assess the health of ecosystems.
Advises landowners and government agencies on sustainable land use practices.
Prepares reports and environmental impact assessments.
Oversees activities like controlled burns, reforestation, and habitat restoration.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Forest Management: Focusing on the stewardship and sustainability of forest lands.
Wildlife Conservation: Specializing in the protection and management of wildlife habitats.
Watershed Management: Managing land and water resources to protect water quality and ecosystems.
Soil Conservation: Concentrating on preserving soil health and preventing erosion.
Environmental Policy and Advocacy: Working on environmental legislation, policy development, and advocacy.

Description

Conservation Scientists play a vital role in preserving natural resources and ensuring sustainable environmental practices. They combine their knowledge of environmental science with practical skills in land management to protect ecosystems and promote biodiversity. Their work includes monitoring environmental changes, assessing the impacts of human activities on natural habitats, and developing conservation plans.

In their day-to-day duties, these scientists use a range of tools from GPS and GIS technology to traditional survey equipment. They must be adept at analyzing data, writing reports, and communicating findings to various stakeholders, including government officials, landowners, and the public. An essential part of their role involves balancing the needs of environmental conservation with economic and recreational interests.

This career is ideal for those who have a passion for the outdoors and a commitment to environmental stewardship. It requires a mix of fieldwork and office-based tasks, offering a diverse work experience. Conservation Scientists must be prepared to work in different weather conditions and sometimes in remote locations. They often collaborate with forestry technicians, environmental scientists, and public officials.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Making a tangible impact on preserving and improving natural environments.
Working outdoors in various natural settings.
The opportunity to contribute to important ecological research and land management policies.

You might make a good Conservation Scientist if you are...

Passionate about environmental conservation and natural resource management.
Comfortable working both outdoors in various conditions and indoors for research and planning.
Skilled in science, particularly in areas like ecology, biology, and environmental science.
Good at problem-solving, critical thinking, and data analysis.
Effective in communication and comfortable working with a diverse range of people.

Pros:

Rewarding work in terms of environmental impact and conservation.
Variety in daily activities, balancing fieldwork with research and planning.
Growing importance and relevance in the context of global environmental challenges.

Cons:

Potentially challenging field conditions and remote locations.
Balancing conflicting interests between conservation goals and public or economic demands.
The need for continuous learning to stay updated with environmental policies and scientific knowledge.

How to become a Conservation Scientist

Typical education

A bachelor's degree in forestry, environmental science, agricultural science, natural resources, or a related field is typically required, taking about 4 years of post-secondary education. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or higher.

High school preparation

Courses:

Biology, Chemistry, and Environmental Science to build a foundation in natural sciences.
Geography and Earth Sciences to understand landforms and ecosystems.
Mathematics and Statistics for data analysis and research skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in environmental clubs or outdoor activities like hiking or camping.
Volunteering for conservation projects or local environmental organizations.
Engaging in science fairs or projects related to ecology and the environment.

Preparation after high school

Pursue a bachelor's degree in environmental science, forestry, natural resource management, or a related field.
Gain practical experience through internships or cooperative education programs in conservation or resource management.
Consider obtaining certifications or additional training in areas like GIS technology or environmental policy.

More resources

Society of American Foresters - Provides resources, networking, and certification opportunities for forestry and conservation professionals.
Ecological Society of America - Offers educational and research resources for those interested in ecology and environmental conservation.
U.S. Forest Service - A government agency that manages public lands in national forests and grasslands.
Conservation Job Board - Lists current job openings in conservation, wildlife, and ecology fields.

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