Job Description - Conservationist:
A conservationist works with landowners and governments to protect natural resources including soil and water. They help find ways to utilize land without harming the environment. Conservationists may also be referred to as soil and water conservationists or conservation scientists.
Employment Facts - Conservationist:
There were 20,000 conservationists employed in 2006.
Educational Requirements - Conservationist:
To work as a conservationist you must have, at the minimum, a bachelor's degree in ecology, natural resource management, agriculture, biology or environmental science.
Other Requirements - Conservationist:
A conservationist must enjoy working outdoors. Conservationists must be in good physical shape and must be able to do a lot of walking. Good communication skills are also necessary.
Advancement Opportunities - Conservationist:
Those first entering this field work under the supervision of experienced conservationists before advancing to positions with more responsibility.
Job Outlook - Conservationist:
Finding a job is going to be somewhat competitive for conservationists over the next few years. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment growth will be slower than the average for all occupations through 2016.
Earnings - Conservationist:
Median annual earnings of conservationists were $56,150 in 2007.
Use the Salary Wizard at Salary.com to find out how much a conservationist currently earns in your city.
A Day in a Conservationist's Life:
On a typical day a conservationist's tasks might include:
- Applying principles of specialized fields of science, such as agronomy, soil science, forestry or agriculture, to achieve conservation objectives.
- Developing and maintaining working relationships with local government staff and board members.
- Advising land users, such as farmers and ranchers, on conservation plans, problems and alternative solutions, and providing technical and planning assistance.
- Planning soil management and conservation practices, such as crop rotation, reforestation, permanent vegetation, contour plowing or terracing, to maintain soil and conserve water.
- Visiting areas affected by erosion problems to seek sources and solutions.
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Conservationist, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos048.htm (visited March 19, 2009).
Employment and Training Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, O*NET Online, Conservationist, on the Internet at http://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/19-1031.01 (visited March 19, 2009).
Should You Become a Conservationist? Take a Quiz to Find Out.
