Nature conservation officer : Entry requirements

Relevant degree subjects include environmental, life and urban and land studies. In particular, the following degree subjects may increase your chances:

• earth science (physical);
• ecology;
• botany/plant science;
• biology/bioscience;
• surveying;
• geography;
• marine sciences/oceanography;
• planning;
• land/estate management;
• sustainable development.

Relevant HND subjects include life sciences and urban/land studies. An HND in land/estate management may also increase your chances. HND entry is possible with substantial experience, but graduates are usually preferred.

For those with non-relevant degrees, a relevant postgraduate qualification might be an advantage, preferably a course that balances the first degree, for example a management course to complement a science degree. Some employers see a Masters as the minimum qualification required and entry may be difficult without one.

Most advertised posts ask for experience and this should be your first priority. The importance of paid or voluntary experience cannot be over emphasised. To gain full-time employment (even on short-term contracts) you have to demonstrate that you have become involved and shown commitment. Many people working in this sector started in voluntary work, building up contacts and experience.

Potential candidates need to show evidence of the following skills:

• administration;
• IT;
• knowledge of Geographical Information Systems (GIS);
• the ability to communicate effectively through talks, presentations, leading walks and producing leaflets.

Becoming a member of a relevant organisation such as The Wildlife Trusts  or a student member of a professional institute is an excellent way to network. Environmental consultancies may be prepared to offer work experience if you have completed your degree. Many Masters courses offer project placements at organisations such as the Environment Agency (EA)  and this may be a good way in.

Be prepared to do any relevant work, however menial, and stick at it (the odd day here and there will not be enough). Get out in the field and build up practical skills and experiences such as laying hedges, taking photographs and identifying species. Any experience in conservation, management, education or planning will be invaluable.

National and international working holidays are great opportunities to develop valuable experience. The British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV) , the National Trust  (working holidays) and the National Trust for Scotland  (thistle camps) all provide short residential camps, where tuition in a wide range of skills is provided alongside experience in practical conservation.

Organisations such as UNA Exchange  offer the chance to volunteer on a range of projects in countries around the world, assisting with local conservation schemes. The BTCV also offers six months' structured training as a volunteer officer, with a job description and responsibility for a specific area of work (depending on the location).

This is a competitive area with few full-time positions, but many voluntary, seasonal and short-term opportunities. Paid casual work is rarely advertised. Instead, this work is usually offered to existing volunteers who have shown commitment.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.