Becoming a Forest and Wildlife Conservation Technician in Colorado

If you’re interested in science and enjoy working outdoors, then you should consider becoming a forest and conservation technician. Forestry technicians in Colorado work under head foresters, lead technicians and other researchers to collect data and direct projects in the forests, rangelands and watersheds. Their work helps to protect the natural resources in the state for future generations.

As a forest and conservation technician, you may take measurements of trees and other plants, collect water and soil samples for scientists and do area surveys using GPS and other geographic information systems (GIS). Forest and conservation technicians are critical to the success of conservation programs through the region.

Requirements for Forest and Conservation Technicians

Forest and conservation technicians must be at least 18 years old and have their high school diploma or GED. Many positions require a valid driver’s license as well. Since these are skilled positions, most technicians acquire their Associate’s (AS) or Bachelor’s (BS) degree in forestry or conservation before applying for work.

Educational Programs in Colorado

While higher education is not required to work as a forest and conservation technician, it is much easier to find work and advance your career if you have a degree in a relevant field.

Some programs in Colorado you might consider include:

• Front Range Community College (FRCC). Located in Westminster, Colorado, FRCC has several two-year degree programs suitable for forest and conservation technicians. The forestry technology program is ideal for students who are interested in forest science, forestry field research, hydrology and soil science. The natural resources degree focuses on forest science principles, rangeland and fisheries management. Upon completion of the program, you will have your AS degree and be ready for entry-level work, or you may transfer to a four-year program and complete your BS degree.
• Colorado Mountain College (CMC). CMC has several certificate and degree programs ideal for forest and conservation technicians. Their two-year program in forest resources management is perfect for those interested in hydrology, forestry, rangeland management and watershed science. They also offer a field technician certificate course for students who have completed their AS degrees. Students at CMC may participate in paid internships and have access to the school’s job placement services.

Career Outlook and Salary Expectations

According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, there were 1,220 forest and conservation technicians in Colorado in 2016. They made an average of $18.81 per hour, or approximately $39,120 per year. This is in line with the national average for this field.

While the number of technicians in Colorado isn’t expected to expand greatly, the field will likely increase about 2.5 percent over the next seven years. Colorado has around 250 job openings each year for technicians, so these positions are in demand.

Working as a Forest and Conservation Technician in Colorado

Forest and conservation technicians in Colorado have many options for employment. You may work with your local or state governments, or with a federal agency such as the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the Forest Service (FS). Many conservation techs work for non-profits or private organizations. Ranchers, farmers, nursery operators, mining and logging companies often hire technicians for projects on their properties. Colorado is a good place to gain experience and advance your skills as a forest and conservation technician.