Conservation Workers
Overview
You perform hands-on fieldwork to restore and maintain forests, trails, and natural areas—planting trees, removing invasive species, and building structures like erosion controls. You'll work outdoors using tools, some powered equipment, and increasingly smartphones and digital apps for tracking progress. Physical fitness and outdoor skills are essential; many start with high school graduation and learn on the job. It's ideal for active people who enjoy tangible conservation results.
Did you know?
This career involves physically demanding work in various weather conditions and remote locations. Workers need good fitness levels and should enjoy spending long periods outdoors in natural environments.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$62,000 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Active Learning
Key Responsibilities
- Maintains forest roads, buildings, facilities, signs and equipment
- Kills weeds, fells and de-barks non-productive trees and thins young plantations
- Collect seeds, and cultivates and plants seedlings for reforestation purposes
- Applies fertilisers, insecticides and herbicides to individual trees and general forest areas
- Maintains look-out for fires in forests
Career Considerations
Physical Demands and Outdoor Work Environment
This career involves physically demanding work in various weather conditions and remote locations. Workers need good fitness levels and should enjoy spending long periods outdoors in natural environments.
Educational Pathways in Australia
Entry-level positions typically require completion of Year 10, with Certificate II or III in Conservation and Land Management providing valuable skills. Many workers gain experience through traineeships or volunteer programs with environmental organisations.
Environmental Impact and Job Satisfaction
This career offers the opportunity to directly contribute to environmental conservation and see tangible results from your work. Many workers find great satisfaction in protecting native wildlife habitats and combating climate change effects.