Seasonal Conservation Worker

Seasonal conservation workers are often students who are interested in a career in natural resources or curious about working in nature. Seasonal conservation workers are often hired for internships, limited term employment (LTE), or summer positions. Seasonal conservation workers undergo training specific to their position and work under a professional supervisor. Seasonal workers in forestry often identify trees, plant and care for trees, mark and measure trees, or collect specific tree inventory data.

• • Strong, able to lift 50 pounds
  • Able to hike long distances
  • Hardworking
  • Reliable

Median $16.65 an hour: $13.25 – $27.50

+ 5% in WI

High School diploma and on the job training

Optional 2-year degree

• • Forestry
  • Plant Science/Biology
  • Business
  • Chemistry

Seasonal conservation workers have a wide variety of work conditions depending on the position. Most seasonal workers will work outdoors in all types of weather and perform some tasks that are physically demanding. Some seasonal positions require workers to have background knowledge in forestry or other areas.

• • Follow instructions
  • Pay attention to detail
  • Use spreadsheets and other data collection/analysis tools
  • Think scientifically
  • Communicate effectively
  • Adapt to changing conditions/surroundings

• • Conduct plot measurements
  • Sample trees and saplings by size
  • Follow state and federal regulation
  • Obtain landowner permission
  • Enter data and maintain quality control
  • Use GIS to find and access plots

US Bureau of Labor Statistics: Forest and Conservation Workers: Occupational Outlook Handbook

USFS Our seasonal workforce

Wisconsin DNR: Limited Term Employment (LTE) openings