Conservation Scientists Salary 2025: $73,010 Median, Top States Pay Over $99K
The median annual salary for Conservation Scientists hit $73,010 in 2025, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $35 an hour. The typical range runs from $47,550 at the 10th percentile to $110,410 at the 90th, meaning pay varies significantly by location and experience.
How much Conservation Scientists earn
The national mean wage for Conservation Scientists is $77,130. Half of all workers earn between about $58,000 and $88,000. The top 10% pull in more than $110,410, often in supervisory or specialized roles.
Pay depends heavily on the employer. Federal government positions, for example, tend to pay above average. Private sector jobs in consulting and environmental services also offer higher wages. Entry-level roles, especially with state or local agencies, start closer to the 10th percentile.
- Median: $73,010
- Mean: $77,130
- Hourly equivalent: ~$35
- 10th percentile: $47,550
- 90th percentile: $110,410
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. The District of Columbia tops the list with an average salary of $99,400. Colorado follows at $84,820, then Maryland at $83,290, Idaho at $81,330, and Wyoming at $81,310.
On the low end, Mississippi averages $59,510, South Carolina $52,310, and Florida $51,130. These states have fewer federal lands and less demand for conservation services. If you're flexible on location, targeting D.C. or the Mountain West can boost your earnings significantly.
How to become Conservation Scientist
You typically need a bachelor's degree in environmental science, forestry, biology, or a related field. Some positions, especially with the federal government, accept degrees in natural resource management or ecology.
Certification is not mandatory but helps. The Society of American Foresters or the Ecological Society of America offer credentials that signal competence. Many scientists start as technicians or field assistants to gain hands-on experience. An advanced degree (master's or Ph.D.) is common for research or higher-level policy roles.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in environmental science, forestry, or biology
- Gain field experience through internships or technician jobs
- Consider certification (SAF Certified Forester, ESA Certified Ecologist)
- Advance with a master's degree for research or management
Job outlook
Employment of Conservation Scientists is projected to grow 3.4% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 2,500 job openings per year, mostly from retirees and workers moving to other careers.
Growth is driven by ongoing environmental regulation, climate change adaptation, and land management needs. Federal budget uncertainty can slow hiring, but state and private sector demand remains steady. The occupation employed 25,950 people in 2024.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest paying state for Conservation Scientists?
District of Columbia pays the highest average salary at $99,400, followed by Colorado ($84,820), Maryland ($83,290), Idaho ($81,330), and Wyoming ($81,310).
Do I need a master's degree to become a Conservation Scientist?
A bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement for most entry-level jobs. A master's or Ph.D. can help you qualify for research, policy, or higher-paying administrative roles.
How many Conservation Scientists are employed in the U.S.?
As of 2024, there were 25,950 Conservation Scientists employed nationwide. The BLS projects about 2,500 openings each year through 2034.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Conservation Scientists data.