Restoration Ecologist

Restoration ecologists learn the ecology (the relationship between living things in an ecosystem) of the land and use that to inform their approach to help improve the land. These interventions are then monitored for efficacy. Restoration Ecologists need to continually evaluate the practices they employ for how effective they are, both in restoring the land and in relation to their budget.

Individual positions may vary in required skills and attributes. A Restoration Ecologist will need knowledge of ecosystems and how they function, and skills in using that knowledge to recommend a course of action. Restoration Ecologists also need to be able to work with the public and gain their confidence, meet physical requirements (using tools, lifting heavy objects, work on difficult terrain), be able to maintain and safely operate equipment (chainsaws, utility vehicles, tractors, etc), and obtain relevant certifications.

The educational requirements of a Restoration Ecologist vary by position. For an entry-level technician position, which typically implements the restoration plan, an associate’s degree or higher is needed. Specialists will most likely need a bachelor’s degree. Internships are a great way for a person to explore and begin a career in this field. Job dependent trainings in relevant skills may include: chainsaw certification, hazardous material manager certification, and wildland fire certifications.

The median pay associated with an entry-level specialist position requiring a bachelor's degree is $73,230. Technicians in the field may need an associate’s degree and their median pay is $46,850. This is a field that is considered to be growing “much faster than average” by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.