How to become a Natural Resource Manager

Natural resource managers develop conservation plans for nature reserves, land and other natural resources, so that people can use these resources in an ecologically sustainable way. Natural resource managers specialising in land and biological resources work in agencies where they can apply ecological and planning principles to the management of renewable resources such as forests, grasslands and agricultural landscapes. Natural resource managers specialising in water and soil resources may apply their skills to several areas, including irrigated agriculture, drainage, water supply, water catchment management, pollution control and rehabilitation after mining activities.

Personal requirements for a Natural Resource Manager

Interested in conservation and management of the environment
Aptitude for science
Good oral and written communication skills
Able to work indoors and outdoors
Patient and able to persevere
Good project management skills

Education & Training for a Natural Resource Manager

To become a natural resource manager you usually have to complete a VET qualification. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have a degree in environmental management, environmental science, sustainability or wildlife and conservation biology. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your Senior Secondary Certificate of Education. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, physics, chemistry, earth and environmental science, biology and mathematics are normally required. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the institutions you are interested in for more information.

Duties & Tasks of a Natural Resource Manager

Natural resource managers:

Assess techniques for flora and fauna conservation
Monitor components of the environment, such as soil, water and air
Develop practical solutions for environmental management and rehabilitation
Develop techniques to ensure the development and use of vital land and water resources is ecologically sustainable
Undertake plant and animal pest management
Undertake bush regeneration activities
Work with land managers to improve biodiversity on private lands
Organise geological, plant and animal research
Undertake laboratory work
Develop resource management policy
Work with government and environmental groups
Run community education programs.

Tasks

Develops and implements environmental strategies, policies, practices and action plans to ensure corporate sustainable development.
Carries out impact assessments to identify, assess and reduce an organisation's environmental risks and financial costs.
Promotes, raises awareness and trains staff at all levels on environmental issues and responsibilities.
Audits, analyses and reports environmental performance to internal and external clients and regulatory bodies.
Negotiates environmental service agreements and manages associated costs and revenues.
Co-ordinates all aspects of pollution control, waste management, recycling, environmental health, conservation and renewable energy to ensure compliance with environmental legislation.

Employment Opportunities for a Natural Resource Manager

Natural resource managers are employed in the areas of catchment management, land care, recreation, research, soil conservation and wildlife management. They work in universities, the minerals industry, environmental organisations and government agencies that manage community-owned land (such as conservation parks, forest or local government reserves and Crown land).With greater community concern about environmental issues and increased demand for government accountability, resource management is a growing field. However, competition for entry level positions is very high. Gaining practical experience in conservation and land management is recommended.

Specializations

Natural Resource Manager

Average age
43
Future Growth
N/A
Gender Share
41% female
Average full-time
44 hours
Weekly Pay
N/A
Skill level rating
Very high skill
Unemployment
Lower unemployment
Full-Time Share
87%
Employment Size
2,800
Employment by state
ACT: 2.3%
NSW: 32.8%
NT: 1.5%
QLD: 16.4%
SA: 6.0%
TAS: 2.0%
VIC: 24.0%
WA: 14.9%
Age brackets
15-19: 0.4%
20-24: 2.1%
25-34: 16.8%
35-44: 41%
45-54: 24.8%
55-59: 9.3%
60-64: 3.9%
65 and Over: 1.8%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 7.3%
Bachelor degree: 46.1%
Certificate III/IV: 5.5%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 34.6%
Year 10 and below: 1.9%
Year 11: 0.8%
Year 12: 3.6%