Conservation Scientists
Conservation scientists manage and protect natural resources like soil, water, and rangelands while balancing their use with environmental protection. They conduct surveys, develop erosion control plans, and advise farmers and ranchers on sustainable practices like crop rotation and contour plowing. Most work for government agencies, nonprofits, or private consulting firms.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against conservation scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A conservation scientist might spend mornings in the field conducting soil surveys or assessing rangeland conditions, collecting samples and taking measurements. Afternoons often involve analyzing data, reviewing management plans, or preparing reports. The work also includes meeting with landowners and farmers to discuss implementing conservation practices, attending planning meetings, and sometimes presenting findings to stakeholders or regulatory bodies.
Who this work suits
Holland code IRC. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You enjoy investigating natural systems and solving practical problems about how land is used and managed. You're suited to this work if you prefer hands-on fieldwork combined with technical analysis, and you're motivated by protecting environmental resources while helping people use them sustainably.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $77,060 | $99,400 | $119,100 | 110 |
| Colorado | $67,770 | $84,820 | $108,540 | 1,230 |
| Maryland | $66,850 | $83,290 | $107,520 | 470 |
| Idaho | $61,110 | $81,330 | $86,260 | 300 |
| Wyoming | $63,810 | $81,310 | $91,170 | 150 |
| Oregon | $70,450 | $80,790 | $104,690 | 1,020 |
| Louisiana | $49,990 | $80,190 | $106,330 | 190 |
| California | $64,310 | $79,810 | $104,990 | 2,110 |
| Wisconsin | $63,130 | $79,540 | $93,200 | 970 |
| Alaska | $66,080 | $79,260 | $103,110 | 290 |
| Utah | $63,490 | $78,850 | $100,420 | 410 |
| Massachusetts | $65,210 | $78,740 | $92,060 | 760 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) — Society of Wetland Scientists
- Certified Professional Soil Scientist (CPSS) — Soil Science Society of America
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against conservation scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-1031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.