Forest and Conservation Worker

Your Fit

Income

$44K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-8.7%

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

What is a Forest and Conservation Worker?

A Forest and Conservation Worker is involved in the physical maintenance and care of forests. Their primary responsibilities include planting, maintaining, and protecting forested areas.

Sample job titles:

Forest Ranger, Forestry Support Specialist, Tree Farmer, Tree Planter

Your test results

Why this fit score?

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

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 Forest and Conservation Worker 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%
$33K per year	$36K per year	$44K per year	$45K per year	$54K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $5.82K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Forest and Conservation Worker do?

Work environment

These workers typically spend most of their time in outdoor forest settings. They may work in varying weather conditions and are often required to use specialized tools and machinery. The job can be physically demanding and sometimes involves travel to remote locations.

Quick task list

Plants seedlings and manages tree nurseries.
Controls pests and invasive plants.
Maintains forest paths and fire lines.
Collects data on tree species, growth rates, and disease.
Assists with controlled burns and other forest management practices.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Urban Forestry: Focusing on the care and maintenance of trees in urban settings.
Wildland Firefighting: Specializing in controlling and preventing forest fires.
Forest Restoration: Working on projects to restore deforested or degraded forest areas.
Wildlife Management: Managing habitats to support diverse wildlife populations.
Conservation Education: Educating the public about forest conservation and ecological importance.

Description

Forest and Conservation Workers play a crucial role in the environmental sector, focusing on the hands-on aspects of forest care and conservation. Their work is vital in managing forest ecosystems, ensuring healthy growth, and preserving biodiversity. They often work as part of a team under the supervision of foresters and conservation scientists.

Their job requires a strong understanding of ecological principles and forestry techniques. Physical stamina is crucial, as the work involves tasks like tree planting, pruning, and sometimes handling hazardous materials for pest control. They must also be knowledgeable about various species of plants and wildlife indigenous to their working area.

In addition to fieldwork, these workers may be involved in data collection and reporting for research purposes. They play an essential role in implementing forest management plans, which may include activities like controlled burns to prevent wildfires and managing areas for recreational use. The occupation is ideal for those who enjoy working outdoors and have a passion for environmental conservation.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Directly contributing to environmental conservation and forest health.
Physical activity and the opportunity to work outdoors.
Being part of efforts to manage and preserve natural habitats.

You might make a good Forest and Conservation Worker if you are...

Physically fit and enjoy working outdoors, regardless of weather conditions.
Interested in environmental conservation and ecology.
Able to operate and maintain various types of equipment and tools.
Comfortable working in remote and sometimes rugged terrain.
A team player who can also work independently when necessary.

Pros:

Meaningful work in environmental conservation.
Opportunities to work outdoors in nature.
Physical activity contributing to a healthy lifestyle.

Cons:

Physically demanding work that can be exhausting.
Exposure to various weather conditions and potential hazards.
Often involves working in remote locations, possibly leading to extended periods away from home.

How to become a Forest and Conservation Worker

Typical education

Typically, a high school diploma is sufficient for entry-level positions. However, some positions may require specialized training or an associate's degree in forestry or a related field, which can take an additional 2 years.

High school preparation

Courses:

Biology and Environmental Science for foundational knowledge in ecology and conservation.
Physical Education to build stamina and physical fitness.
Geography to understand terrain, climate, and ecosystems.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining environmental or outdoors clubs to gain experience in nature.
Volunteering for community clean-up or tree-planting events.
Participating in scouting or outdoor adventure groups.

Preparation after high school

Gain experience through seasonal work or internships in forestry or conservation.
Pursue an associate's degree in forestry, wildlife management, or environmental science.
Obtain certifications in areas like chainsaw operation, first aid, or wildland firefighting.

More resources

Society of American Foresters (SAF) - Offers resources and certification information for forestry professionals.
National Association of State Foresters - Provides information on forest management and conservation efforts across the U.S.
U.S. Forest Service - A federal agency with a wealth of resources on forest management and career opportunities.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Offers resources and information on environmental conservation and protection.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.