Conservation professionals Salary
Median salary £37,949 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £38,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For conservation professionals, £40,083 is the typical (median) pay. That is around the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +3.0% versus the national average.
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
Common industries
- Nature conservation charities
- Government agencies (Natural England, NRW)
- Environmental consultancies
- National parks
- Heritage organisations
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
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 (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 12.8%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£2,134
Conservation professionals salary: common questions
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Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).