How to Become a Conservation Scientist
Manage forests, rangelands, and natural resources so they stay productive without being destroyed. It typically requires a bachelor's degree, with a median salary of $73,010 per year and about average projected job growth.
Median pay
$73,010/yr
Job growth
3%
Openings / yr
2,500
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Land Management
- GIS Mapping
- Field Assessment
- Science
- Stakeholder Communication
Helpful certifications
- SAF Certified Forester (forestry track)
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
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Work-life balance
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Stress level
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Satisfaction
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a Conservation Scientist make?
The median pay for a Conservation Scientist is $73,010 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Conservation Scientist?
The usual entry point is a bachelor's degree. Common majors are Environmental Science, Forestry, Natural Resource Management, and Biology.
Is Conservation Scientist a growing field?
The BLS projects about average demand for this role, about 3% over the decade, with roughly 2,500 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Conservation Scientist use most?
Common skills for this role are Land Management, GIS Mapping, Field Assessment, Science, and Stakeholder Communication.
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.