Becoming a Forest and Wildlife Conservation Technician in Oregon

If you have a passion for science and conservation and enjoy working outdoors, you might consider becoming a forest and conservation technician. Conservation technicians gather data and carry out research projects under the supervision of a forester, scientist or lead technician. They may conduct area surveys of plants and animals, gather samples of soil or water for analysis or help direct forest conservation workers in their labors.

As a forest conservation technician, you’ll utilize various scientific techniques to collect information and carry out projects like replanting forests and restoring streams after dam removals. Technicians have a wide variety of responsibilities depending on their position, and may easily advance as their education and skills allow. The work that you do will directly contribute to the health and productivity of Oregon’s forests and wild lands.

Requirements for Forest and Conservation Technicians

There are no formal requirements to begin work as a forest and conservation technician in Oregon. However, these are considered skilled positions and preference is usually given to candidates with at least an associate’s degree in forestry, resource conservation or a related field. More advanced positions may require a bachelor’s degree, or a combination of field experience and higher education.

Educational Programs in Oregon

While many forest and conservation technicians are trained on the job, a strong background in science and field research will help you secure an entry-level position. Acquiring your associate’s or bachelor’s degree in forestry or conservation will provide you with the experience and skills needed to work as a technician and to advance your career.

Some forestry programs in Oregon include:

• Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC). SWOCC has an Associate of Science degree program in forestry that is ideal for conservation technicians. You can take classes at their coastal campus in Coos Bay or at their inland campus in Brookings. You will learn plant and tree identification, various surveying techniques, recreation management, soil sciences and forest sampling techniques. This program prepares you for seasonal and entry-level employment as a forestry tech, or you may transfer your credits to a four-year program to pursue your bachelor’s degree.
• Oregon State University (OSU). OSU’s College of Forestry offers one of the best forestry Bachelor’s degree programs in the country. At OSU, you will get a rigorous education in science and hands-on experience managing the school’s research forests. You can choose to specialize in forestry, natural resources, forest engineering, renewable materials or recreation and tourism. OSU offers many internship opportunities, both locally and globally, and provides job placement services to their graduates. With your bachelor’s degree, you will be able to secure entry-level and advanced positions as a forest conservation technician.

Career Outlook and Salary Expectations

According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, there were 2,580 forest and conservation technicians in Oregon in 2018. They reported a mean hourly wage of $19.47, or approximately $40,490 annually, which is higher than the national average.

The growth rate for technician positions in Oregon is fairly small, with an estimated increase of 0.9 percent by 2026. However, Oregon usually has about 250 openings for forest and conservation technicians every year, so there is definitely a demand for entry-level and experienced technicians.

Working as a Forest and Conservation Technician in Oregon

Forest and conservation technicians in Oregon often work directly for their local or state governments, or with a federal agency such as the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the Forest Service (FS). Many technicians work in the logging, agriculture and fishing/crabbing industries, or for non-profits or conservation organizations. As a conservation technician, you have a lot of opportunities for employment and advancement in Oregon.