Forest and Conservation Workers
Forest and conservation workers perform manual labor to develop and maintain forests, woodlands, wetlands, and rangelands. They raise and transport seedlings, control pests and diseases, build erosion control structures, and clear brush. Work takes place outdoors in forests and protected natural areas, typically under the direction of a supervisor or forestry specialist.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against forest and conservation workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves physical outdoor work like planting seedlings, spraying pesticides on trees, or building check dams and water barriers. Workers might spend several days maintaining trails, removing diseased trees, or preparing sites for reforestation. Tasks follow established procedures and safety protocols. Weather determines daily activity, and workers use hand tools, machinery, and sometimes climbing equipment.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You thrive in hands-on outdoor work and prefer jobs with clear procedures and measurable results. You're practical and systematic, comfortable following established guidelines while working independently in natural settings. This work suits people who want direct physical involvement in land management without extensive supervisory duties.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | $52,000 | $59,460 | $60,320 | — |
| Hawaii | $56,330 | $56,330 | $60,320 | 60 |
| Virginia | $43,400 | $54,560 | $62,400 | — |
| Massachusetts | $43,340 | $51,890 | $65,390 | 120 |
| Pennsylvania | $46,780 | $50,250 | $56,370 | 210 |
| Ohio | $45,700 | $48,470 | $57,840 | 160 |
| Arkansas | $41,490 | $47,310 | $48,790 | 30 |
| Oregon | $39,230 | $46,010 | $57,260 | 70 |
| Washington | $41,610 | $44,430 | $45,760 | 460 |
| South Carolina | $39,460 | $44,050 | $48,990 | 40 |
| California | $43,680 | $43,680 | $43,680 | 2,270 |
| New Jersey | $37,440 | $41,600 | $47,710 | 40 |
All 27 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Professional in Rangeland Management (CPRM) — Society for Range Management
- Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) — Society of Wetland Scientists
- Wetland Professional in Training (WPIT) — Society of Wetland Scientists
- Certified Range Management Consultant (CRMC) — Society for Range Management
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against forest and conservation workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 45-4011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.