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Wildlife Biology Professions: Career Outlook for the Wildlife Biology Professions

Published Nov 03, 2009

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Wildlife biologists, conservation officers and forest or park rangers often hold degrees in wildlife biology or wildlife management. These professionals have a love for the outdoors and a passion for all types of plants and animals. Continue reading to learn more about the career options for wildlife biology professionals.

Wildlife Biologist Overview and Career Outlook

Wildlife biologists conduct scientific research in laboratories as well as in the field. They gather field data and then analyze and dissect their findings back in the lab. By doing so, wildlife biologists learn about the correlation between plant and animal structure. These professionals typically hold a doctoral degree in biology and often face tight research budget constraints and deadlines. The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) (www.bls.gov) predicts positions for biological scientists to grow about nine percent between 2006 and 2016. However, competition will be fierce.

Wildlife Conservation Officer Overview and Career Outlook

Conservation officers work to preserve endangered plant and animal life. They may spend much of their day advising local, state and federal agencies on how to repopulate certain plants or animal species. Wildlife conservation officers hold a bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, wildlife management or environmental science. The BLS predicts slower than average growth for conservationists due to decreased forest industry activity.

Forest or Park Ranger Overview and Career Outlook

Park rangers maintain law and order as well as act as nature experts within U.S. parks and forests. These professionals operate or manage state parks and dams and patrol state forests. Often park rangers can be seen educating campers and sportsman on surrounding wildlife. They also spend time alone in state forests documenting wildlife feed and migration patterns. Forest rangers hold a bachelor's degree in ecology, forestry, wildlife management or environmental sciences.

Wildlife Rehabilitator Overview and Career Outlook

Rehabilitators are like emergency medical technicians for animals. These wildlife professionals rescue, treat and nurture injured animals back to good health. They also oversee the safe and controlled release of these animals back into the wild.

Wildlife rehabilitators often work for federal or state conservation departments. They may also work for public or private rehabilitation centers or hospitals for animal wildlife. Many hold doctoral or professional degrees in biology or veterinary science. The BLS projects a slower than average growth for wildlife rehabilitators from 2006 to 2016.

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