Soil and Water Conservationists
Did You Know:*
- About 68 percent of conservation scientists and foresters work for federal, state or local governments.
- Most jobs require a bachelor's degree; research and teaching positions usually require a graduate degree.
- Foresters and conservation scientists should enjoy working outdoors, be able to tolerate extensive walking and other types of physical exertion and be willing to relocate to find work.
- In addition to job openings from growth, many openings are expected as today's conservation scientists and foresters retire.
Industry Areas
- Federal Executive Branch (OES Designation)
- State Government (OES Designation)
- Local Government (OES Designation)
Day-to-Day Tasks*
- Calculate or compare efficiencies associated with changing from low-precision irrigation technologies, such as furrow irrigation, to high-precision technologies, such as computer-controlled systems.
- Implement soil or water management techniques, such as nutrient management, erosion control, buffers, or filter strips, in accordance with conservation plans.
- Initiate, schedule, or conduct annual audits or compliance checks of program implementation by local government.
Overall Kind of Work*
Conservation scientists and foresters manage the use and development of forests, rangelands and other natural resources. These lands supply wood products, livestock forage, minerals and water. The...
Work Environment*
Civilian
Working conditions vary considerably. Some foresters and conservation scientists work regular hours in offices or laboratories, but others may split their time between fieldwork and office work. I...
Workweek Breakdown
The hours worked per week by people currently pursuing this career.
- 12.45% (0-20 Hours)
- 11.37% (35-39 Hours)
- 72.79% (40 Hours)
- 3.39% (Over 50 Hours)
This data also pertains to Conservation scientists and foresters (19-1030)
Type of Work
The level of day-to-day involvement with data, people or things.
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Skills at a Glance
The levels of different skills helpful in this career.
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Workplace at a Glance
The level of different environmental factors you would experience on the job.
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Business Breakdown
The different sectors people in this career currently work in.
- 21.76% (Private For-Profit)
- 5.04% (Private Not For-Profit)
- 33.52% (State and Local Govt)
- 31.19% (Federal Government)
- 8.49% (Self-Employed)
This data also pertains to Conservation Scientists And Foresters