Science · Manage, improve, and protect natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the environment
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$41–50k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$89–104k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
+3.4% · As fast as average
Projected growth of 3.4% from 2024 to 2034; about 3 openings projected per year.
Time to Start
4–6 years
College degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Research Assistant
Conservation Scientists
Experienced Conservation Scientists
Senior Conservation Scientists
Research Director / Chief Scientist
You prioritize Relationships
This career is strongly aligned with Relationships — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Active Listening
Active Listening is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires a bachelor's degree, which matches common student preparation goals.
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417 schools offer programs in this career field.
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