Conservation Scientists
Manage, improve, and protect natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the environment. May conduct soil surveys and develop plans to eliminate soil erosion or to protect rangelands. May instruct farmers, agricultural production managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for stock watering.
How to read this profile
BLS projects U.S. employment for Conservation Scientists to increase by 5.3% between 2024 and 2034, from 27,700 to 29,200 jobs. Its estimate of 2,100 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($73,010), education (Bachelor's degree), and related experience (None) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.
Base employment (2024)
27,700
Projected employment (2034)
29,200
Projected change (2024–2034)
5%
Annual openings (projected average)
2,100
Pay & Preparation
$73,010
Bachelor's degree
None
None
Essential Skills
Speaking (4/5) • Reading Comprehension (4/5) • Active Listening (4/5) • Speaking (4/5) • Critical Thinking (3.88/5) • Monitoring (3.88/5)
O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.
BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.
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