Running head: EPORTFOLIO CAREER RESEARCH 1

Career Research – Forest/Wildlife and Conservation Authority

Mark A. Tomczyk

Delaware Technical Community College

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Career Research – Forest/Wildlife and Conservation Authority

In my current major of Criminal Justice, it will give me the necessary bedrock of

academic and professional skills to further my education and career path to become a wildlife

authority conservationist. As one could reasonably assume, this career field requires someone to

have a strong sense of responsibility for the environment and the Earth in general. Preserving,

protecting, and educating those who encounter wildlife authority personnel are imperative to the

job field as a whole (BLS, 2019). If an individual is interested in becoming involved in the

profession, they should pursue at least an associate’s degree (bachelors is also accepted), be in

good physical condition as moving throughout forests/land masses would be necessary when

park vehicles are not suitable for certain terrains. English is the most preferred language to have

for the role and knowledge of local plant life and species are essential as one is going to be

making sure the local wildlife is not under any threat. Also, public safety and security knowledge

is vital for the role, “knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to

promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data,

property, and institutions…” (BLS, 2019).

Regarding pay/salary benefits, median wages for 2017 were broadcasted at “$27,650

annually”, where most employment is centered around government positions with projected job

openings from 2016 - 2026 to be 2100 (BLS, 2019). To secure a position within this career role,

I plan to continue my education as much as I can afford to, possibly going on and getting a

bachelors degree if I am able to. Along with more education, being in amazing physical shape

would allow me to stand out among other candidates. Staying drug-free is also vital as most, if
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not all park agencies would drug test those who supervise the lands. A background check would

also have to be passed in order to secure employment within the field. Also, since most park

rangers/wildlife authority personnel work for the local or federal government, they are entitled to

a wide range of benefits that are given to most if not all other government employees.
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References

Summary. (2019, February 22). Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/OOH/farming-fishing-and-

forestry/forest-and-conservation-workers.htm