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SOC 2151 Science, research, engineering and technology professionals

Conservation professionals Salary

Median salary £37,949 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.

About this role

Conservation professionals manage and protect natural habitats, wildlife, landscapes and cultural heritage sites. They develop conservation strategies, conduct ecological assessments, manage protected areas and work to balance development with environmental preservation.

Key responsibilities

  • Developing and implementing conservation management plans
  • Conducting ecological surveys and habitat assessments
  • Managing protected sites, nature reserves and heritage properties
  • Advising on planning applications and environmental impact
  • Engaging communities and volunteers in conservation activities

Qualifications and entry routes

Typically requires a degree in ecology, environmental science, conservation biology or a related field. Chartered Ecologist (CEcol) or Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) status through CIEEM is the professional standard.

Career outlook

Growing demand driven by Biodiversity Net Gain requirements, environmental regulation and Nature Recovery Network initiatives. However, many conservation roles are grant-funded.

Key skills

Ecological knowledge Survey techniques GIS and mapping Stakeholder engagement Policy interpretation

Common industries

  • Nature conservation charities
  • Government agencies (Natural England, NRW)
  • Environmental consultancies
  • National parks
  • Heritage organisations

Data coverage

SOC code 2151
Data source ONS ASHE
Years available 2021–2025
Estimated jobs 16,000

Median Salary

£37,949

Mean Salary

£42,224

Jobs (000s)

16k

Data Years

5 years

Salary Range (2025)

P25: £32,533Median: £37,949
P10: --P25: £33kMedian: £38kP75: --P90: --

Estimated Career Progression

Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation

Entry Level

£32,533

0-2 years

Mid Level

£32,533

3-7 years

Salary Trend (2021-2025)

Nominal growth: +32.4%Real growth: +7.4%

Gender Pay Comparison (2025)

Gender pay gap: 12.8%

Full-time vs All Employees (2025)

All Employees

£37,949

Full-time Only

£40,083

Full-time premium: +£2,134