Foresters work to preserve natural resources.
Despite the fact that the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects little job growth in the forestry and agricultural sectors through 2018, job opportunities with government agencies like the USDA's Forest Service still abound. Those who have specialized training in the field of forestry or a related discipline like environmental engineering are most likely to secure jobs in this field.
Forester
Foresters and conservation scientists are professionals who work for the forestry services to preserve forests and other wildlife and natural environments. Some foresters regularly work replanting forest lands in order to keep them thriving, while others may work to preserve existing lands by removing diseased trees and plants that can kill the others around them. Foresters manage and implement plans to conserve and regenerate forest land; they often oversee the process as well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that most forester jobs require a bachelor's degree in biology or a closely related field. Hands-on experience can often be substituted for formal education as well. The bureau notes that foresters made a median annual salary of $58,720 in May 2008.
Geologist
The U.S. Forest Service also employs geologists on a regular basis. Geologists play a key role in ongoing conservation efforts by this government agency. Geologists are scientists who study the physical aspects of the earth, such as its soil, rocks and even its water. Geologists working for the Forest Service oversee land reclamation projects such as those where mining used to take place. Geologists serve as investigators who examine mineral claims and sometimes even play a role in ensuring that various mining projects are being completed within government guidelines. Geologists typically need a master's degree or higher, but some entry -evel positions may be available with a bachelor's degree. The BLS notes that the median salary of professionals in this field was $79,160 in May 2008.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife biologists study various animals in the wild. They study how they live and how their lives are affected by various diseases and other ecological factors. The goal of the wildlife biologist is similar to the role played by the conservationist: to preserve the natural environment, including its living organisms. Wildlife biologists in the Forest Service manage and protect wildlife habitat. Wildlife biologists conduct research and collect data that can be used in conservation efforts. Wildlife biologists usually have a bachelor's or master's degree. A Ph.D. may be required in some instances. The BLS notes that wildlife biologists make a median annual salary of $55,290, as of May 2008.
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