Job Description
This job is part of our sustainability series: > See more sustainable job ideas > Find out more about sustainable careers
A Nature Conservation Officer will work with the local community to help protect, manage and improve the local environment. They will encourage people to look after and use the countryside and will promote awareness of and understanding of the natural environment
Entry Requirements
You will normally need a degree to get into this role, although it is possible through other routes by starting as a countryside worker:
University
You could complete a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like:
- countryside or environmental management
- ecology and geography
- environmental science
- biology
Entry requirements can vary but you will usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
College
You could take a college course which will give you some of the skills and knowledge required, relevant courses include:
- Access to Higher Education Landbased Studies - Conservation (this course prepares students without relevant qualifications for university)
- FdCs Wildlife & Conservation (Level 5)
- Land & Wildlife (City & Guilds Level 2)
- Countryside Management (Level 3)
You will usually need
- 2 or more GCSE's at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D) or equivalent for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSE's at grades 9 to 4 (A* to D) or equivalent for a level 3 course including English, maths and science
The following colleges may offer relevant courses
Apprenticeship
You could start out on a countryside worker intermediate apprenticeship or do an advanced apprenticeship in environmental conservation.
You'll usually need:
- GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
Career Tips
Paid or unpaid work experience can be very useful when applying for jobs. You could volunteer with organisations such as
Required Skills
- Good administration and IT skills
- Able to make presentations where necessary
- Good communication skills
- A passion for conservation and the environment
- Effective at time management
Salary Range
£18,000 to £50,000
