How to Become a Forest and Wildlife Conservation Worker in Missouri

Missouri is home to more forest and conservation workers than all but four other states. If this is a career that interests you, consider starting in Missouri. As a forest worker you will be responsible for planting seedlings, identifying and treating diseased trees, keeping recreational areas of forest land clear and assisting foresters.

This is a good career option for anyone who loves being outdoors and in nature. It is a physically-demanding job, though. You can expect to be on your feet, walking a lot and lifting heavy equipment as a forest and conservation worker. Check out what it takes to work in this kind of job so you can get started on a great new career managing forests.

Requirements for Forest and Conservation Workers

To start out in this career you should at least have a high school diploma or have earned a GED. You do not need to go to college, but you may choose to complete a one- or two-year program to provide background knowledge and gain an edge in getting hired.

The state of Missouri has no set requirements for being a forest worker. It is up to employers to determine what experience and education you have, and most are happy to train new workers on the job.

Forestry and Related Programs in Missouri

A degree program in forestry, conservation or natural resources is a good way to jumpstart a career in this industry. While having a degree is not required, a solid background in forest ecology, management and conservation will help you do the job better.

• Three Rivers College, Poplar Bluff. Three Rivers offers three degree options for anyone interested in forestry. You can earn an associate’s degree in forestry or an associate’s degree in forest technology. For the latter, you may choose to focus on geographical information systems or surveying. The forestry degree is designed to transition students to a four-year degree program at the University of Missouri upon completion.
• University of Missouri, Columbia. If you are interested in ultimately becoming a forester, you can complete a four-year bachelor degree program at the University of Missouri. The degree is in natural resource science and management and includes a focus on forest ecology, ecosystem management and natural resource policy.

Job Outlook and Salaries in Forest and Conservation Work

While growth in forest and conservation careers is actually negative, or declining, across the U.S., in Missouri there is no downturn. In fact, aside from California, South Dakota, Washington and Tennessee, Missouri hires more forest workers than any other state. There should be 20 to 50 jobs available each year for forest workers and technicians in the state.

Missouri also has some of the highest salaries for forest workers. The national average salary is just $13.20 per hour and $27,460 per year, but in Missouri it is $21.26 per hour and $44,220 per year. Those earning the most in the state make nearly $60,000 per year. You may be able to earn more with additional skills, such as forest firefighting and prevention.

Finding a Job as a Forest and Conservation Worker

There are plenty of options for employers of forest workers in Missouri. You can work for the state or the federal government in state and national forests. Local governments may also hire you to work in parks and natural areas. Private employers include the owners of forests, tree farms, orchards and recreation areas. Some forest workers are even self-employed and work for the government on a contract basis.