Looking for a career that will actually help the planet?
Wildlife conservation careers are rapidly expanding. From increased federal funding to a high demand for qualified applicants, climate action is creating new opportunities for aspiring conservation professionals.
Here’s the catch…
You don’t need to be a field biologist to work in wildlife conservation. In fact, the industry is changing and careers in wildlife conservation are more accessible than ever before.
Table of Contents
Let’s dive into:
- Why Wildlife Conservation Careers Are Growing
- The Skills Employers Are Searching For
- Top Wildlife Conservation Jobs & Career Paths
- How Climate Action Plans Are Creating New Roles
- How To Break Into The Wildlife Conservation Field
Wait…Why Are Wildlife Conservation Careers Growing?
If you’re thinking about entering the wildlife conservation field, you’re not alone. And you should be excited about your options.
Wildlife biologist jobs are expected to grow 8% through 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. New federal programs focused on climate change and environmental protection have opened up positions in government and beyond.
But wait… there’s more.
Private companies are also beginning to hire for conservation positions. Businesses of all types are starting to implement sustainability programs and they need experts to lead the charge. Conservation related jobs can be found in environmental consultancies, renewable energy companies, land developers, and many other industries looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Earning a wildlife conservation degree covers many of the skills employers want. For someone who is just starting out and wants to break into the industry, a degree is one of the best ways to prepare for a career in conservation.
That said, there’s another reason why conservation jobs are worthwhile.
Investments in wildlife conservation don’t just help species, they help the economy too.
A recent National Fish & Wildlife Foundation report found that $55.3 billion invested in wildlife conservation supported over 575,000 American jobs and produced $115.8 billion in total economic output.
Let’s recap…
The wildlife conservation field is growing. Professionals who take the time to build their skills and knowledge will find plenty of opportunities when looking for a job.
You can be part of that.
What Skills Are Employers Looking For?
Let’s say you decided to pursue a wildlife conservation qualification. What will you actually need to do when you graduate?
The wildlife conservation field has evolved over the past decade. Conservation jobs require traditional field work experience in addition to tech savvy skills.
Here are the top skills employers want:
- GIS/Data Analysis – Tracking animal populations & mapping habitats using GIS is standard in most conservation careers today.
- Policy/Regulatory knowledge – Familiarity with environmental policy and how to work within (or influence) government regulations is important.
- Technical proficiency – Drone usage, remote sensing, and other technological tools are being used more frequently to monitor wildlife.
- Communication – Reports, stakeholder outreach, presentations. Conservation workers have to be able to teach and inform just as much as they research.
Conservation Careers & Job Opportunities
Ready to learn about the different career options available? There are quite a few wildlife conservation careers to choose from. Here are some of the top job positions:
Wildlife Biologist
These scientists study wildlife populations, their behaviors, and habitat needs. Wildlife biologists typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, or wildlife management.
Conservation Scientist
Conservation scientists focus on land management to protect natural resources. They can work for the government or for private companies who own land.
Environmental Consultant
If you want to work in conservation without leaving the business world, an environmental consultancy could be the right fit. Consultants work with companies to ensure compliance with regulations and best practices.
Wildlife Policy Analyst
Policy analysts work with government agencies, NGOs, and private companies to craft plans and policies that protect wildlife.
Habitat Restoration Specialist
Love the outdoors and want to see immediate results? Careers in habitat restoration allow you to work hands-on to restore forests, prairie, wetlands and more.
Climate Action Is Creating New Wildlife Conservation Jobs
Climate action plans are reshaping the job market for conservation professionals. By committing to protect the environment, governments are creating new positions across the sector.
Take a look at…
The National Fish & Wildlife Foundation recently hosted a job fair specifically for climate change-related positions. From wildlife migration planners to conservation educators, professionals from all corners of the environmental science field came together to network and find jobs.
Climate change is having an impact.
Here are a couple of examples…
The Mideast U.S. Climate Adaptation Science Center has multiple job postings for climate adaptation specialists. These professionals will help the Center achieve their goal of creating a “climate-smart future”.
Wildlife biologists are now using technology to do things that once took months in the field. Tracking animal migration patterns used to require hours of hands-on research. With new technology, satellite imagery and remote monitoring can perform the same tasks in less time.
Don’t underestimate the power of innovation.
Technological advances are making wildlife conservation careers more impactful than ever. Professionals who know how to adapt to changing environments will be leaders in the field.
How Do You Break Into Wildlife Conservation?
Breaking into wildlife conservation can seem daunting. However, with the right knowledge the process is straightforward.
Earn a Degree
Whether you’re looking to become a wildlife biologist or habitat restoration specialist, you need to learn the basics. Professionals coming out of college are expected to have a foundational knowledge of science, conservation, and the environment. Choose a degree that will teach you these skills.
Gain Experience Early
Get involved as early as possible. Spring into action by taking on an internship or seasonal position with a conservation organization. Not only will you gain real world skills, but you’ll have a foot in the door at your dream organization.
Take Advantage of Tech Skills
Technology like GIS software and remote tracking tools aren’t just changing the wildlife conservation field. These skills separate you from the competition when looking for a job. Learn how to use the tech. Take online courses to learn how to code. Study hard and take your education beyond the basics.
Network With Conservation Professionals
Professional organizations such as The Wildlife Society have career sites, blogs, and even conferences you can use to get connected in the industry. Find a mentor. Talk to other professionals. Join the community and learn what it takes to break into the field.
Bringing It All Together
Wildlife conservation careers are on the rise. Climate action spending and increased awareness have opened up opportunities in the wildlife conservation industry.
There are tons of careers in wildlife conservation. Skills like fieldwork experience, technical proficiency, and data analysis are important for professionals looking for a job.
By earning a degree, building your experience, and getting technical you too can break into the wildlife conservation industry.
So what are you waiting for?
The planet needs your help.
