How Do I Become a Wildlife Technician?

A college education and on-the-job training are both valid pathways to become a wildlife technician. Many successful technicians start with no wildlife experience at all and learn the necessary skills from a skilled mentor. In contrast, wildlife technicians that oversee other workers normally require a four year college degree and a United States federal training certificate.

Wildlife technicians perform a variety of functions in the field. The position's main purpose is to preserve the flora and fauna in a specifically designated region, such as in a forest or mountain area. Animals are counted on a regular basis, flowing water is collected and tested for quality, and recreational trails and pathways are maintained for safe travels. The technician also monitors hunting practices in the region, as well as timber supplies for logging areas.

The simplest pathway to become a wildlife technician is learning on the job. Many regions offer internships or volunteer programs for recruiting new technicians. Some positions may offer you a small salary, whereas others may be strictly voluntary. These programs are usually designed for college students or wildlife enthusiasts so that they have the opportunity to work and learn about the local flora and fauna.

As the program continues, you can gain important experience to advance to the next technician level. Promising recruits may be given a training program that is designed for the specific region. In addition, some localities may send the worker to a two year college program if he or she shows true talent while training to become a wildlife technician in the field. Scholarships can often be applied to the schooling if the worker is a diligent student.

Some technicians stay in school and acquire a two or four year college degree in a related science before obtaining any on-the-job training. This pathway to become a wildlife technician has its benefits and drawbacks. You may have all the scientific background for a region and its related flora and fauna, but real life work in an isolated area requires experience outside of the classroom. The future technician must be able to withstand hot and cold weather, as well as extended walking over difficult terrains.

Along with a degree, many regions require a specific training program that is designed particularly for the local terrain. For example, forest work differs from a desert position. Specific terrain experience within the training program generally allows you to become a wildlife technician with accreditation.