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Resource Manager And Ecologist
Industry: Energy
Area: Hydropower
The water development projects built during the 20th century have had negative as well as beneficial impacts on the indigenous wildlife, fishes and plants. Today, there is a real effort to rehabilitate or maintain natural ecosystems that existed before the rivers were harnessed, and to protect species and natural lands from further harm. Whether designing and monitoring the impacts of a man-made flood through the Grand Canyon, helping native fish populations grow, or ensuring construction, operation and maintenance activities meet Endangered Species Act criteria and other environmental protection laws, this field of work will continue to grow and offer challenging career opportunities well into the future.
Work Settings
Individuals interested in this field typically are drawn to natural settings and environments, enjoy nature, and want to develop the professional knowledge and skills needed to conserve, steward and manage natural resources and the environment.
Education
Bachelor's degree is the minimum level of education required.
Job Outlook
Jobs in this area are expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through 2014. Growth should be strongest in private sector consulting firms. Demand will be spurred by a continuing emphasis on environmental protection, responsible land management, and water-related issues. Growing interest in developing private lands and forests for recreational purposes will generate additional jobs for foresters and conservation scientists.
Salary
Median annual earnings of conservation scientists in May 2004 were $52,480. The middle 50 percent earned between $39,660 and $65,550. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $30,740, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $78,470.