Conservation Scientists

Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.

What a Conservation Scientists does

Conservation scientists manage and protect natural resources like forests, soil, and wildlife by developing sustainable practices and restoration plans. They work for government agencies, nonprofits, and private organizations to balance environmental protection with responsible resource use.

Education & path

The typical entry point is a bachelor's degree. About 4 years.

Estimated cost of that path: ~$40,000. Estimated payback: ~3 years. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.

Related careers

• Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists — $103,410/yr
• Occupational Health and Safety Specialists — $90,150/yr
• Environmental Restoration Planners — $82,220/yr
• Industrial Ecologists — $82,220/yr
• Climate Change Policy Analysts — $82,220/yr