Forest and Conservation Technician

Your Fit

Income

$54K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

0.6%

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

What is a Forest and Conservation Technician?

A Forest and Conservation Technician provides support in the management, improvement, and protection of forests and natural resources. They work under the guidance of foresters and conservation scientists to collect data, maintain forest areas, and ensure sustainable land use and conservation practices.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

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

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 Technician earn

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

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$36K per year	$43K per year	$54K per year	$66K per year	$81K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $4.81K above the national average.

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What does a Forest and Conservation Technician do?

Work environment

These technicians typically work in outdoor settings, including forests, parks, and rural areas, conducting field research and management activities. They may also spend time in laboratories or offices analyzing data and preparing reports. The job can involve physical activity, travel, and sometimes working in remote locations.

Quick task list

Collects data on forest and soil conditions, tree measurements, and wildlife presence.
Assists in the implementation of forest management and conservation plans.
Monitors forest and conservation areas for compliance with environmental standards.
Conducts tree planting and forest maintenance activities.
Helps with forest inventory and mapping using GIS technology.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Forest Management: Focusing on the management and restoration of forest areas.
Wildlife Conservation: Specializing in the protection and study of wildlife within forest ecosystems.
Urban Forestry: Managing trees and green spaces in urban settings.
Fire Prevention and Control: Working on forest fire prevention, control, and response strategies.
Environmental Education: Educating the public about conservation and sustainable practices.

Description

Forest and Conservation Technicians play a vital role in preserving and managing forest ecosystems. They work on a variety of tasks, from conducting scientific surveys to implementing conservation practices and educating the public. Their work is essential for monitoring environmental health, managing natural resources, and protecting biodiversity.

A career as a Forest and Conservation Technician is ideal for individuals who have a passion for the outdoors and a commitment to environmental stewardship. The job requires a mix of fieldwork and data analysis, requiring both physical endurance and technical skills. Technicians must be knowledgeable about environmental regulations, forestry practices, and wildlife management.

This occupation offers the opportunity to make a tangible impact on environmental conservation and forest management. Technicians often find satisfaction in contributing to sustainable practices, preserving natural habitats, and promoting ecological balance.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to the conservation and sustainable management of natural resources.
Working outdoors and interacting directly with the environment.
Seeing the direct impact of conservation efforts on forest health and biodiversity.

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

Passionate about the outdoors and environmental conservation.
Physically fit and enjoy working in various outdoor conditions.
Interested in forestry, wildlife, and natural resource management.
Skilled in data collection, analysis, and comfortable using technology like GIS.
A good communicator who can work well in a team and engage with the public.

Pros:

Rewarding work in natural settings, contributing to environmental health.
Opportunities for diverse activities, from fieldwork to educational outreach.
Growing importance of conservation and sustainable practices in response to environmental challenges.

Cons:

Physical demands of outdoor work, including exposure to varying weather conditions.
Potential for irregular hours or extended periods in remote locations.
Balancing fieldwork with administrative duties and data reporting.

How to become a Forest and Conservation Technician

Typical education

An associate's degree in forestry, environmental science, natural resources, or a related field is usually required, taking about 2 years. Some positions may also require specific certifications or on-the-job training.

High school preparation

Courses:

Biology and Environmental Science to understand ecosystems and conservation.
Geography and Earth Science for knowledge about land use and physical landscapes.
Mathematics, particularly statistics, for data collection and analysis.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in outdoor clubs, such as hiking or camping groups.
Engaging in environmental clubs or local conservation projects.
Volunteering with parks, nature reserves, or wildlife rehabilitation centers.

Preparation after high school

Pursuing an associate's degree in forestry, natural resources, or environmental science.
Gaining experience through internships or seasonal work in forestry or conservation.
Obtaining certifications in areas such as wildfire management or GIS technology.
Continuing education with workshops and seminars to stay current in the field.

More resources

Society of American Foresters - Offers resources and networking for forestry professionals.
National Association of State Foresters - Provides information on forest management and conservation practices in the United States.
U.S. Forest Service - A federal agency managing public lands in national forests and grasslands.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Forests - Offers resources on forest management and environmental impact.
Wildlife Society - Provides resources for wildlife conservation and management, including aspects related to forestry.

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