Conservation jobs are the perfect careers for eco-warriors, Greta Thunberg fans, and animal activists. After all, they’re meaningful and rewarding jobs that actually make a difference: how cool is that?
To help you land the job of your dreams, and save the environment in the process, we’ve put together a guide outlining the types of conservation jobs, why green jobs are so incredible, and different types of employers in the environmental conservation industry! Trust us, by the time you’re done reading, you’ll be an expert!
Types of Conservation Jobs
Before diving into the specific conservation jobs you can pursue, it’s important to first familiarise yourself with all the different facets of conservation.
#1 Environmental
Environmental conservation is super important. After all, we need to protect our environment so that future generations can enjoy a safe and beautiful world like the one we’ve grown up in! Those working in environmental sustainability and conservation ensure the protection of the natural environment and attempt to reduce the effects of unsustainable agriculture practices, deforestation and fossil fuels.
#2 Animal
If you’re an animal lover, a role in animal conservation could be the perfect fit for you! Try out this kind of conservation job to spend your 9-5 protecting ecosystems and surroundings so that the animals living in them can exist peacefully. Our planet is currently experiencing its sixth mass extinction, so the importance of animal conservation cannot be overstated!
#3 Marine
Those of us that watched the Blackfish documentary at a formative age might be most drawn to marine conservation, and for a good reason too! Marine life needs our help to continue thriving, which is why these kinds of conservation jobs are so important. Working as a marine conservationist means protecting oceans and seas by minimising overfishing and working towards cleaner waters!
#4 Human
Human conservation is a lesser-known subcategory of conservation jobs, but that doesn’t mean that it’s any less important! Those working in these conservation roles ensure humans make appropriate use of nature, and don’t harm the environment through excessive hunting, logging and mining. Essentially, you’d be protecting nature from humans!
Why Pursue a Career in Environmental Sustainability?
Pursuing a green job is a super admirable decision. After all, we need as many people as we can to help preserve our world! However, if you’re looking for a few concrete examples of why conservation jobs are such a good idea, we’ve got you covered!
By working in a sustainability or conservation job, you’ll:
- Protect biodiversity
- Increase resource efficiency
- Address climate change
- Set a great example for those around you
- Find a real purpose
And if you ask us, those reasons are more than enough!
Types of Green Jobs
While this list of conservation jobs is by no means extensive, it gives you a great starting point to further explore the sustainability industry
Manager of Sustainability
Managers of sustainability work to help companies find sustainable solutions and ensure that they’re not harming the environment through their business practices. This often involves tracking water waste and greenhouse gas emissions and putting future-focused recycling initiatives into place.
Wildlife Officer
As a Wildlife Conservation Officer, you’ll be protecting and preserving Australia’s diverse wildlife. From monitoring endangered species to developing conservation strategies, this green job is vital for safeguarding the future of Australia!
Conservation Officer
Those working as conservation officers lead the charge in creating a greener, more sustainable Australia. This conservation job involves collaborating on eco-friendly projects, promoting sustainable practices, and making a genuine difference in reducing our environmental footprint.
Environmental Officer
As an Environmental Education Coordinator, you’ll engage with schools and communities to raise awareness about environmental issues. How cool is that? Essentially, you’ll be empowering others to take action and be part of the solution: it’s a super admirable green job to have!
Types of Conservation Employers
Academic
Academic employers are usually universities, but this category can also include research-focused organisations. If you want to contribute to leading environmental science breakthroughs, looking for a conservation job with an academic employer could be the perfect option for you.
Business
The business category of conservation employers are for-profit organisations. However, just because a company isn’t explicitly working towards developing environmental sustainability breakthroughs doesn’t mean that they don’t make a difference! In fact, any company looking to hire a sustainability officer is making a big difference.
Charity
When a conservation employer falls under the charity category, it means they’re a non-for-profit or non-governmental organisation. Examples of this include third sector companies (parts of an economy that consist of charities), like the World Wildlife Fund.
Government
Public and civil service roles fall under the government category of conservation employers. Essentially, if you want a green job that works towards environmental sustainability that’s also connected with your local government, this is the kind of employer you’ll want!
Social Enterprise
Social enterprises are a little trickier to define but, essentially, they’re organisations that apply commercial strategies to maximise improvements for both human and environmental wellbeing. They basically combine a business mentality with a passion for positive innovation: they’re pretty cool!
FAQ: All About Conservation Jobs
Just in case you have any unresolved burning questions, we’ve also included a FAQ. Trust us, if there’s anything left to know about sustainability careers, we’ve covered it below!
Question: What Are Some Conservation Jobs You Can Do without a Degree
Answer: There are lots of conservation careers that don’t require a degree! Our top picks include conservation communicator, land manager, wildlife officer and conservational officer.
Question: What Are Some Conservation Jobs for Recent Graduates
Answer: Graduate roles in conservation are available in a tonne of different sectors, including, education, fundraising, organisational management, policy advocating, science and wildlife caring. However, the best conservation job for you depends on your degree!
Question: What Skills and Aptitudes Do Conservation Employers Value Most
Answer: In the sustainability and conservation industry, the skills that employers value the most are passion, drive, commitment, flexibility and a willingness to learn.
Start Saving the World Today!
Now that you know all about green jobs, conservation careers and potential pathways, it’s time to check out all the companies that share your passion for the environment. Simply head over to our employers page to see which companies have initiatives that pique your interest (and pro tip, if you live in Queensland, the DESI employer page is a great place to start)!
