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Is it difficult to get in a job that involves environmental sciences or wildlife management?

I'm really into environmental sciences, but I worry that there will be limited job positions for me in this field. Can anyone point out if it's easy to find a job with these two topics, or should I go into research instead? #environmental-science #wildlife-conservation

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Tess’s Answer

Hi Yu-Wei,


I studied Biology at the University of Washington, and focused my studies on ecology and animal behavior. After graduating, I knew I wanted to get into environmental work, but didn't know how. It is hard to break into the field, because it's all about networking and proving that you can get your hands dirty, but persistence does pay off.


I joined Washington Conservation Corps (WCC), under the umbrella of AmeriCorps, and spent 4 months doing restoration work for very little pay. However, during that time I was able to get a job shadow opportunity at an environmental consulting firm specializing in wetlands. After I was done with WCC I took up an internship at an environmental nonprofit focusing on electing environmentally friendly politicians, while taking a certificate program specializing in wetland science. Within a few months of those new ventures, the firm I job shadowed at called me, asked for an interview, and hired me as an Ecological Technician (an intern level position). After completing my certificate program (which my WCC/AmeriCorps work helped pay for via educational stipend) I was hired on full-time as an Associate Ecologist.


There are lots of ways to be involved in environmental work and it can be hard to fine your niche. I recommend searching on LinkedIn or Indeed for "environmental specialist" or "wildlife biologist" and seeing what job titles come up, then search LinkedIn for individuals who have that job. Try reaching out to them via messenger and see if they can offer any advice. Who you know can be a big part of figuring out your career journey.


If you're into wildlife related work, I'd also definitely recommend volunteering. There might be some wildlife rehab centers around you. While volunteer or AmeriCorps positions aren't high paying or glamorous, they do help you get your foot in the door.


Be persistent and don't settle! It wasn't easy to get where I am, but I'm really happy with the work I'm doing now. Good luck :)
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Kaila’s Answer

Hi! I want to second Tess's response. The environmental field can be really difficult to break into & job positions tend to be shared internally before going public. In my area, a large amount of employees at environmental non-profits are hired directly after serving with AmeriCorps. I have found that when you are serving with AmeriCorps they make it a priority that you explore related companies in your location & have plenty of opportunities to network! However, I will caution that AmeriCorps tends to be very low paying & is not always accessible to everyone.
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