Conservation Scientists
Conservation scientists manage, improve, and protect natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the environment. They conduct soil surveys and develop plans to eliminate soil erosion or protect rangelands. They also instruct farmers, agricultural production managers, or ranchers in the best ways to use crop rotation, contour ploughing, 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.
To be eligible for conservation scientist jobs, one needs a solid grounding in the life sciences, such as biology and ecology, and the physical sciences, such as statistics. The candidate should also explore courses in social sciences, ecology, forest resource management, economics and government and get experience working with computers.
They work in local, state, and federal governments or at national parks, zoos, and aquaria. A wildlife conservationist's salary is typically much more for those working with the government. The highest conservation scientist salary is earned by those who tend to focus on scientific research and development services over social action and advocacy.
Conservation scientists serve as a mediator between humans and nature and play a vital role in keeping the environment safe and free from pollution, disease, and harmful insects.
To be successful in a conservation scientist career, you should be in good physical shape, enjoy working outdoors and be a problem solver who likes coming up with original solutions to issues. With a strong base in sciences and math, one must be able to work independently and communicate with varied people.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- Ph.D. Environmental Science
- M.Sc. Environmental Science
- B.Sc. Environmental Science
- PG Diploma Biodiversity Conservation
Tasks
- Implement soil or water management techniques, such as nutrient management, erosion control, buffers, or filter strips, in accordance with conservation plans.
- Advise land users, such as farmers or ranchers, on plans, problems, or alternative conservation solutions.
- Monitor projects during or after construction to ensure projects conform to design specifications.
- Visit areas affected by erosion problems to identify causes or determine solutions.
- Develop or maintain working relationships with local government staff or board members.
- Apply principles of specialized fields of science, such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, or agriculture, to achieve conservation objectives.
- Gather information from geographic information systems (GIS) databases or applications to formulate land use recommendations.
- Compute design specifications for implementation of conservation practices, using survey or field information, technical guides or engineering manuals.
- Participate on work teams to plan, develop, or implement programs or policies for improving environmental habitats, wetlands, or groundwater or soil resources.
- Conduct fact-finding or mediation sessions among government units, landowners, or other agencies to resolve disputes.
Progression Routes
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