A green career is one that supports and restores the environment, contributing to a sustainable world. Green jobs are found in almost any sector. They can be in forestry, conservation, technology, as well as construction, and business.
Benefits of Green CareersOpportunities for green jobs are growing! According to the International Labor Organization, there were 9.8 million green jobs in 2017. By 2030 there will be an additional 15-60 million new green jobs. These jobs will contribute to a green future.
Explore Green JobsToday’s youth are seeking rewarding careers that help us move towards more sustainable and resilient lifestyles and economies. PLT's mentorship connects young adults with forest and conservation professionals and learn about career opportunities.
Green Mentor Program
Whether it’s the trees, waterways, or critters you love, learning about Indigenous rights and relationships, or finding ways to fight climate change, Forest Quest helps you learn about forest and green careers from different people you’ll meet along the way. Earn a digital badge along the way!
The Journeys of Black Professionals in Green Spaces guide was developed to inspire young Black Americans to pursue forest and conservation careers. It features the stories of 22 Black Americans in green careers who share advice and resources for following in their footsteps.
Our shared future will rely on leaders with a commitment to sustainability and a passion for the outdoors. No matter the job, building technical and leadership skills through environmental education is crucial. Take this interactive quiz to explore green careers that might suit your personality.
Watch the Green Jobs Video Series to meet the people who work in forests and care for forests! Learn about the communities in which these professionals live and work, how society benefits from the work they do, and the pathways that led them to their unique green jobs.
The term “STEM” usually refers to occupations or learning approaches involving science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. While many people think of STEM in terms of technical skills, most green jobs also require leadership skills. Take a self-assessment to determine which STEM Skills are your strengths!
Green jobs provide environmental, economic, and social benefits for individuals, communities, and society globally.
Green jobs represent one of the fastest-growing and changing segments of the global economy. This growing field can provide opportunities for workers, especially if they are creative and flexible.
Worker satisfaction is significantly higher in green sectors than in the economy at large.
Workers in green forest jobs are typically able to find a healthy work-life balance. Opportunities to work outdoors doing what they love helps these workers maintain a good quality of life.
Many green jobs pay well because they require specialized skills. Many also provide job security because they cannot be outsourced.
Green jobs help to ensure environmental sustainability for all of us. Workers in the forest sector help to balance environmental, economic, and societal needs for current and future generations.
Every day, foresters across the United States lace up their boots, put on their high-visibility vests, and head out to the woods.
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Environmental educators help youth and adults learn about forests and the environment by engaging people in hands on experiences in the natural world.
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GIS specialists use scientific research, spatial data, and expert opinions to help develop plans and management strategies.
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Indigenous relations specialists build and maintain ongoing relationships with Indigenous communities.
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Forestry technicians gather data, monitor resource use, and inform decision-making. Their tasks vary depending on their employer’s needs.
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Hydrologists are scientists who study the structure and function of lakes, rivers, and watershed systems.
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Silviculture technicians help to maintain forest health by doing site assessments, thinning stands, managing fires, engaging in reforestation, and more.
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Urban foresters inventory and monitor tree health using a variety of tools to track tree condition, location, and canopy cover.
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Machine operators work with mechanical or computer-operated equipment. They calibrate machines to launch production, determine optimal settings, and oversee material operations.
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Wildlife biologists study the biology, behavior, and habitats of animal populations in the wild. Their research often takes them into the wilderness, where they conduct wildlife surveys and habitat assessments.
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Sustainability managers ensure that organizations set and meet environmental goals, adhere to environmental standards, and minimize environmental harm.
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PLT’s Forest Literacy Framework translates the language of forests and sustainable forest management into concepts for any age. It’s perfect for teachers and forestry professionals seeking guidance on how to connect youth to forests.
Many PLT activities are designed to work with nonformal settings and audiences, including after-school programs and youth groups. Programs such as 4-H, Scouts, homeschool, museums, nature centers, and many more, offer nonformal education.
PLT provides educators with high-quality professional development, hands-on activities, and a multi-disciplinary supplemental curriculum that can be easily integrated into lesson plans for all grades and subjects.
