Working in the conservation and environment sector

Jobs in conservation and environment are all about protecting the natural environment.

They include managing our landscapes, habitats, species and access to the countryside. You might choose to work on issues such as climate change or biodiversity. Jobs can be practical, technical or scientific. As well as good qualifications, you’ll also need some voluntary or work experience to gain some of the skills that will help you to get a job.

Skills match quiz

Is a career in this area a good match for you?

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Explore where your qualifications can take you

with Level 2 qualifications such as BTECs or GCSEs

Careers if you plan to get on the job ladder straight away.

with Level 3 qualifications such as A Levels or BTECs

Careers if you plan to do further qualifications in sixth form or college.

with Level 4 and upwards such as a degree or HND

Careers if you plan to go to uni or college to get a higher qualification.

Career maps

Refer to these useful charts that explains the different sorts of jobs in the conservation and environment sector and what qualifications are required for each role.

Countryside

Forestry and Arboriculture

Employer case study

Charlotte Corney, Isle of Wight Zoo

"Competition is very high for animal care positions, with most zoos receiving many more applications than they have vacancies..."

Find out more

Future careers

New jobs in this area of work are emerging all the time. Examples include sustainability officer, energy officer, renewable energy consultant, natural resource specialist, carbon analyst, energy efficiency officer and energy economist. There is currently a shortage of plant pathologists who deal with plant diseases that are a threat to the environment.