Landscape Restoration and Management
Within landscape restoration and management jobs you will be responsible for monitoring and reducing the impacts caused by forest visitors and other influences. Duties can include developing, overseeing, and maintaining popular recreation facilities such as trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas; reducing the spread of invasive species; and issuing special use permits. You will also study interactions among plants, animals, and their environment for scientific investigations. You will need to read maps and interpret photographs to locate research sites, use different tools to measure various types of data and coordinate with research scientists on projects.
Industry Insights
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Estimated employment nationwide in 2024
Projected change in employment through 2034
Mid-career annual salary (nationwide median)
How the work is typically performed
Peak demand and work cadence
Career Pathways & Progression
Position Responsibilities
Entry‑level positions include field assistants and restoration technicians who support on‑site restoration projects. They collect ecological data, assist with planting native species, remove invasive vegetation, and help monitor soil and water quality. Work is largely outdoors and may be seasonal.
Job Types & Titles
- Restoration field technician
- Conservation crew member
- Environmental field assistant
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
High school diploma or associate degree in ecological restoration or environmental science.
Certifications
Optional certifications such as pesticide applicator or chainsaw safety.
Experience
0-2 years of fieldwork or volunteer experience in habitat restoration.
Position Responsibilities
Technicians plan and execute restoration activities under supervision. They conduct site assessments, prepare seed mixes, operate equipment, manage volunteers and collect monitoring data. Their work requires strong field skills and understanding of ecological principles.
Job Types & Titles
- Restoration technician
- Habitat specialist
- Wetland delineation technician
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Associate or bachelor’s degree in restoration ecology, forestry, natural resource management or related field.
Certifications
Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner in Training (CERPIT), wetland delineation certificate, GIS training.
Experience
2-5 years of hands‑on restoration or conservation experience.
Position Responsibilities
Professional‑level positions include restoration ecologists and planners who design and oversee restoration projects, prepare permits, manage budgets and coordinate multidisciplinary teams. They develop monitoring protocols, analyze data and communicate with stakeholders.
Job Types & Titles
- Restoration ecologist
- Environmental restoration planner
- Riparian or forest restoration specialist
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Bachelor’s or master’s degree in restoration ecology, environmental science or related discipline.
Certifications
Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP), professional wetland scientist, project management certification.
Experience
5-8 years of progressively responsible experience in ecological restoration or natural resource management.
Position Responsibilities
Managers and program leaders oversee large restoration programs, supervise staff and consultants, secure funding and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. They develop strategic plans, evaluate program performance and represent the organization in public forums.
Job Types & Titles
- Restoration program manager
- Natural resources director
- Environmental consulting manager
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Master’s degree or higher in natural resource management, environmental policy or business administration.
Certifications
Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) or senior CERP, leadership and management training.
Experience
8+ years of professional experience including project management and supervision of restoration projects.
Who Hires Landscape Restoration and Management Professionals?
Explore leading organizations in this field and discover career opportunities.
The Nature Conservancy
Tetra Tech
SWCA Environmental Consultants
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
U.S. Forest Service
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Bureau of Land Management
National Park Service
Natural Resources Conservation Service - Biologist
Bureau of Indian Affairs (Indian Affairs)
California State Parks
Education & Certification
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Microcredentials & Specialized Training
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Jobs in Landscape Restoration and Management
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