Forest and Conservation Technicians earn $54,560 median salary – 2025 career guide
Forest and Conservation Technicians earn a national median salary of $54,560 per year, or about $26 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The typical range runs from $40,330 at the 10th percentile up to $83,630 at the 90th. With 30,410 jobs across the country, this field offers solid pay for outdoor work, but the outlook is shrinking.
Below, you'll find a state-by-state breakdown of pay, the steps to get hired, and what to expect from the job market through 2034.
How much Forest and Conservation Technicians earn
The median wage for Forest and Conservation Technicians is $54,560, with a mean annual salary of $59,060. That works out to roughly $28.39 per hour on the mean. Entry-level workers at the 10th percentile start around $40,330, while experienced technicians in the top 10% earn $83,630 or more.
- National median: $54,560 per year ($26.23/hr)
- Mean annual wage: $59,060 ($28.39/hr)
- 10th percentile: $40,330
- 90th percentile: $83,630
Pay by state
Where you work makes a big difference. The highest-paying state is North Dakota at $68,600, followed closely by Alaska at $68,160. Maryland ($64,980), Wisconsin ($62,700), and Louisiana ($59,370) round out the top five. On the flip side, the lowest earners are in Missouri ($33,920), Kansas ($41,660), and Kentucky ($43,660).
- Highest: North Dakota ($68,600), Alaska ($68,160), Maryland ($64,980), Wisconsin ($62,700), Louisiana ($59,370)
- Lowest: Missouri ($33,920), Kansas ($41,660), Kentucky ($43,660)
How to become a Forest and Conservation Technician
Most technicians start with an associate degree in forest technology, natural resources, or a related field. Some employers accept a bachelor's degree, but it's often not required. Coursework typically includes forest ecology, GPS mapping, tree identification, and wildlife management.
Certification can boost your chances. The Society of American Foresters offers the Certified Forester credential, though it's more common for higher-level roles. For technicians, a valid driver's license and physical fitness are non-negotiable – you'll be working on rough terrain. On-the-job training is standard, often lasting a few weeks to a few months.
- Earn an associate degree in forest technology or natural resources (two-year program).
- Consider a bachelor's degree for advancement – not mandatory but helpful.
- Get certified through the Society of American Foresters or state-specific programs.
- Gain field experience via internships or seasonal work with state/federal agencies.
- Maintain physical fitness and a valid driver's license.
Job outlook
Employment is projected to decline by 3.2% from 2024 to 2034, a loss of about 970 jobs. Still, roughly 3,900 openings occur each year due to workers retiring or leaving the field. Competition will be strong, especially for federal jobs. Technicians with GIS skills and wildfire experience may have the best prospects.
- Projected decline: -3.2% (2024-2034)
- Annual openings: ~3,900
- Total employment: 30,410 (2024)
Frequently asked questions
What does a Forest and Conservation Technician do?
They collect data on forest and conservation lands, monitor wildlife, help with mapping, assist in controlled burns, and support resource management projects. Work is outdoors in all weather conditions.
Do Forest and Conservation Technicians need a degree?
Most employers require at least an associate degree in forest technology or a related field. A bachelor's degree can help with advancement but is not always necessary.
Is forest and conservation technician a good career?
Pay is solid for an outdoor job ($54,560 median), but the field is shrinking slightly. Job satisfaction is high for those who love nature, but openings are competitive, especially with federal agencies.
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 Forest and Conservation Technicians data.