How to get a job working in conservation


Landing a full-time position in the conservation field can sometimes feel like scaling a mountain. However, for many aspiring conservationists, contract jobs serve as invaluable stepping stones, offering not just temporary employment but also a foot in the door towards long-term career prospects.

The Nature of Conservation Contract Jobs

Contract jobs in conservation come in various forms, ranging from fieldwork and research positions to project management and policy roles. These roles are often funded by grants, specific projects, or short-term initiatives, leading to a fixed duration of employment, typically anywhere from a few months to a couple of years.

Benefits Beyond the Paycheck

While contract jobs may not offer the stability and benefits of full-time positions, they provide a host of other advantages crucial for career development:

1. Hands-On Experience:
Contract positions often involve immersive, hands-on work, allowing individuals to gain practical experience in their chosen field. Whether it’s conducting field research, implementing conservation projects, or analyzing data, these roles offer opportunities to develop skills and expertise.

2. Networking Opportunities:
Conservation is a field driven by collaboration and networking. Contract jobs provide opportunities to connect with professionals, researchers, and organizations within the conservation community. Building these relationships can open doors to future employment opportunities and collaborations.

3. Skill Diversification:
Contract roles frequently require individuals to wear multiple hats and tackle diverse tasks. This allows professionals to expand their skill sets, from project management and budgeting to communication and stakeholder engagement. Such versatility is highly valued in the conservation sector.

4. Exposure to Different Sectors:
Conservation efforts intersect with various sectors, including government agencies, non-profits, research institutions, and private companies. Contract positions provide exposure to these different sectors, offering insights into their unique approaches, challenges, and opportunities.

5. Proving Ground for Full-Time Roles:
Perhaps most importantly, contract jobs serve as auditions for full-time positions. By demonstrating dedication, competence, and a strong work ethic during their contract tenure, individuals increase their chances of being considered for permanent roles within the organization or sector.

Success Stories: From Contract to Career

Countless conservation professionals have launched their careers through contract positions. Consider the story of Sarah, who started as a short-term field assistant conducting wildlife surveys. Through her diligent work and networking efforts, she secured a full-time role managing conservation projects for a prominent NGO.

Similarly, James began his career as a contract GIS specialist mapping protected areas. His exceptional performance led to successive contract renewals and eventually a permanent position leading the organization’s geospatial team.

Navigating the Pathway

For aspiring conservationists seeking to leverage contract jobs into full-time careers, here are some tips:

1. Pursue Relevant Experience:
Seek out contract roles aligned with your interests and career goals. Even if the position isn’t permanent, the experience gained can be invaluable for future opportunities.

2. Network Strategically:
Actively engage with professionals in the conservation field through conferences, workshops, and online platforms. Building meaningful connections can lead to referrals and insider insights into job openings.

3. Demonstrate Value:
Approach every contract role with professionalism and enthusiasm. Showcase your skills, initiative, and dedication, positioning yourself as an indispensable asset to the organization.

4. Stay Resilient:
The path from contract work to a full-time career in conservation may involve setbacks and rejections. Stay resilient, continue building skills, and remain open to new opportunities.

 

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