Range Managers
Overview
Introduction
Range managers work to maintain and improve grazing lands on public and private property. They research, develop, and carry out methods to improve and increase the production of forage plants, livestock, and wildlife without damaging the environment; develop and carry out plans for water facilities, erosion control, and soil treatments; restore rangelands that have been damaged by fire, pests, and undesirable plants; and manage the upkeep of range improvements, such as fences, corrals, and reservoirs. Approximately 32,900 conservati...
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, in May 2019, conservation scientists earned from less than $39,270 to more than $98,060 per year, with $62,660 as the median salary. Those working as foresters earned a median salary of $61,790 per year and from less than $38,890 up to $90,080.
Range managers are also eligible for paid vacations and sick days, health and life insurance, and othe...
Work Environment
Range managers, particularly those just beginning their careers, spend a great deal of time on the range. That means they must work outdoors in all kinds of weather. They usually travel by car or small plane, but in rough country they use four-wheel-drive vehicles or get around on horseback or on foot. When riding the range, managers may spend a considerable amount of time away from home, and t...
Outlook
This is a small occupation, and most of the openings will arise when older, experienced range managers retire or leave the occupation. The U.S. Department of Labor predicts that employment for conservation scientists and foresters, a category that includes range managers, will grow by 3 percent through 2028, or slower than the average for all careers. The prevention and suppression of wildfires...