Forest and Conservation Technicians: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 31,080 forest and conservation technicians, and they earn a median of $54,310/year. The range runs from $36K to $81K. Maryland pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level forest and conservation technicians start around $36K. The gap between that and the median ($54K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $81K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $67K | 110 |
| Minnesota | $64K | 670 |
| California | $61K | 6,440 |
| Louisiana | $59K | 230 |
| Pennsylvania | $58K | 380 |
| New York | $56K | 170 |
| Oregon | $56K | 2,750 |
| Alaska | $55K | 470 |
| Montana | $54K | 1,940 |
| Arizona | $54K | 1,350 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a forest and conservation technicians make?▼
The median forest and conservation technicians salary in the United States is $54,310 per year ($26/hour). Entry-level positions start around $36,190, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,790.
What education do you need to become a forest and conservation technicians?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for forest and conservation technicians?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for forest and conservation technicians.
What are the highest paying states for forest and conservation technicians?▼
The highest paying states for forest and conservation technicians are Maryland ($67,450), Minnesota ($63,540), California ($60,880), Louisiana ($58,820), Pennsylvania ($57,910). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.