Become aRewilder

Becoming a Rewilder means dedicating your life to making a positive impact on the environment. You’ll have the opportunity to protect wildlife, restore ecosystems, and reconnect with nature in a meaningful and fulfilling way. Plus, you’ll be part of a global movement working towards a more sustainable and harmonious future for all living beings on Earth.

As a Rewilder, your main role is to restore and conserve natural habitats and species. This could involve activities such as reintroducing native plants and animals, removing invasive species, restoring degraded landscapes, and educating communities about the importance of conservation. Whether you’re trekking through forests, monitoring wildlife, or planting trees, every day as a Rewilder is an adventure filled with purpose and passion.

If the thought of promoting biodiversity, all while immersing yourself in the beauty and wonder of the great outdoors sounds exciting, then this could be the future career for you! Get ready to swap screens for sunshine, concrete for forests, and stress for serenity as you embark on a journey to protect and preserve our planet for generations to come.

Rewilders can work in a variety of industries where conservation and environmental protection are valued. From wildlife reserves to national parks to environmental not for profits, your skills will be highly sought after.

Industries

• Wildlife Conservation
• Environmental Education
• Ecotourism
• Forestry and Land Management
• Environmental Policy and Advocacy
• Sustainable Agriculture

Check out the Australian Wildlife Conservancy’s Careers Page to see what jobs are currently available: https://www.australianwildlife.org/work-with-awc/careers/

To excel as a Rewilder, you’ll need a unique blend of outdoor skills, ecological knowledge, and passion for conservation.

Skills

• Fieldwork
• Ecological Monitoring
• Wilderness Survival
• Plant and Animal Identification
• Conservation Biology
• Community Engagement
• Passion for the environment and sustainability
• Knowledge of agriculture
• Wildlife management training
• Attention to detail

Subjects that focus on ecology, biology, environmental science, and outdoor education will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a Rewilder.

Subjects

Ecology

Understanding the relationships between organisms and their environments.

Biology

Learning about the diversity of life and the principles of evolution.

Environmental Science

Studying the impacts of human activities on the natural world.

Outdoor Education

Developing skills in navigation, camping, and wilderness first aid.

Conservation Biology

Exploring strategies for protecting and restoring biodiversity.

Geography

Understanding the physical and human landscapes of the planet.Explore the students information page about what subjects you could be studying in future years at school to pave your pathway into a Rewilding career  https://student.scsa.wa.edu.au/

From tracking endangered species to planting native trees, Rewilders are at the forefront of conservation efforts around the world. Imagine releasing rehabilitated animals back into the wild, restoring degraded landscapes to their former glory, and witnessing the magic of nature’s resilience firsthand.

Restore Natural Habitats

Work on projects to re-establish native habitats, reintroducing native plant species and creating environments where wildlife can thrive.

Reintroduce Native Species

Release and monitor native animals that have been previously driven out, helping to restore the natural balance of ecosystems.

Combat Invasive Species

Identify and remove invasive species that threaten local biodiversity, ensuring native plants and animals have a chance to recover.

Create Wildlife Corridors

Design and implement corridors that connect fragmented habitats, allowing wildlife to move freely and safely between areas.

Revive Degraded Landscapes

Transform degraded lands, such as abandoned mines or deforested areas, back into healthy ecosystems through rewilding techniques.

Engage in Ecological Research

Conduct research to understand the best practices for rewilding, including studying plant and animal interactions and ecosystem dynamics.

Promote Biodiversity

Enhance biodiversity by planting a variety of native species and creating habitats that support a wide range of wildlife.

Collaborate with Local Communities

Work with local communities to promote conservation efforts, educate on the importance of rewilding, and involve them in restoration projects.

Implement Sustainable Land Management

Develop and apply sustainable land management practices that support long-term ecological health and resilience.

Monitor and Evaluate Ecosystems

Use technology and fieldwork to monitor the health of rewilded areas, assessing the impact of rewilding efforts and making adjustments as needed.

While the field of Rewilding is still emerging, you’ve likely heard of Sir David Attenborough before! 

Sir David Attenborough is an absolutely remarkable man and an is well known as an inspirational ambassador for WWF and the natural world. For decades, his documentaries have brought extraordinary places and wildlife into the homes of audiences worldwide.

In Australia Wilderness queen Gina Chick, winner of ALONE Australia, brings her barefoot wisdom to boardrooms opening people’s eye to the nature wonders that exist and how to protect them.

Watch this short video of Gina and her advice to young Aussies looking at get into a rewilding career: https://www.abc.net.au/religion/coming-up-on-compass-the-rewilders-with-gina-chick-/103529822 

Or you can follow Gina’s career on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gigiamazonia/?hl=en

To thrive as a Rewilder, you’ll need more than just technical skills. Traits like passion, resilience, and empathy will help you connect with nature and inspire others to join the fight for conservation.

Personality Traits

• Passionate
• Resilient
• Empathetic
• Curious
• Adventurous
• Patient

For those who appreciate structured academic learning, pursuing a university degree provides a solid foundation in the necessary scientific and theoretical knowledge. Relevant degrees include:

Ecology

Gain a comprehensive understanding of ecosystems, species interactions, and environmental processes, essential for effective rewilding.

Environmental Science

Study the principles of environmental sustainability, conservation practices, and the impacts of human activities on natural habitats.

Conservation Biology

Focus on the protection and restoration of biodiversity, learning techniques for preserving endangered species and rehabilitating degraded landscapes.

Botany and Zoology

Develop expertise in plant and animal biology, understanding the roles of different species within ecosystems and their specific conservation needs.

University programs often include practical components such as lab work, field studies, internships, and research projects, providing hands-on experience and opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge.

Some of the courses on offer in Australian Universities:

• Bachelor of Environmental Science
• Bachelor of Wildlife Biology
• Bachelor of Ecology
• Bachelor of Conservation Biology
• Bachelor of Environmental Management

Imagine combining your love for nature with other areas of interest, such as art, technology, or education. With interdisciplinary studies, you can blend subjects like environmental science, sociology, and communication to develop a unique skill set that allows you to approach conservation from multiple angles. Additionally, consider seeking out internships, volunteering opportunities, and fieldwork experiences to gain practical skills and insights that complement your academic studies.

During your studies, you’ll delve into the fascinating world of ecology, conservation biology, and environmental management. From learning about the intricate relationships between species to mastering techniques for habitat restoration and wildlife monitoring, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to make a positive impact on the natural world. Additionally, you’ll develop critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills that are essential for addressing complex environmental challenges and inspiring others to join the fight for conservation.

Ecology and Ecosystem Dynamics

Gain a deep understanding of how ecosystems function, the relationships between different species, and the processes that sustain natural environments.

Conservation Biology

Study the principles of conservation, including the preservation of biodiversity, the protection of endangered species, and the restoration of natural habitats.

Environmental Science and Sustainability

Learn about environmental challenges and sustainable practices, focusing on how to restore and manage ecosystems in a way that supports long-term ecological health.

Botany and Zoology

Develop knowledge of plant and animal biology, understanding the specific needs and roles of different species within ecosystems.

Fieldwork and Research Methods

Acquire practical skills in fieldwork, including data collection, species identification, habitat assessment, and ecological monitoring techniques.

Community Engagement and Education

Learn how to work with local communities, promote conservation initiatives, and educate the public on the importance of rewilding and environmental stewardship.

Gaining hands-on experience is essential for becoming a successful Rewilder. Consider finding opportunities to volunteer with conservation organisations, participate in fieldwork projects, and intern with environmental agencies. 

Whether you’re conducting wildlife surveys, restoring degraded habitats, or educating communities about the importance of conservation, every experience will enrich your understanding of the natural world and help you develop the practical skills and confidence needed to pursue a career in rewilding.

Industry Experience

Entering the workforce directly and gaining experience on the job is another viable pathway. Many conservation organisations and environmental agencies (such as the many Landcare sites in most metros and regional areas of Australia)  offer entry level positions that provide training and mentorship, allowing you to learn while you work. Roles such as conservation technician, habitat restoration specialist, or wildlife biologist can serve as stepping stones into a career as a rewilder. 

Some of the training you might receive:

Fieldwork and Monitoring

Gaining hands-on experience in conducting ecological surveys, monitoring wildlife populations, and assessing habitat conditions.

Invasive Species Management

Learning techniques for controlling and removing invasive species to protect native biodiversity.

Habitat Restoration Projects

Participating in projects to restore degraded habitats, including planting native species and constructing wildlife corridors. 

Salination is a huge problem in Australia, and this is just one of the problems you could be tackling in your career as a rewilder. This pathway offers the advantage of earning a salary while developing practical skills and gaining industry experience.

For those who prefer a more practical, hands-on approach, vocational training programs and professional certifications offer direct pathways into the workforce. These programs are typically shorter and more focused than university degrees, providing targeted training in specific skills. 

Key certifications and training programs include:

Wildlife Conservation and Management

Courses that teach practical skills for managing and restoring wildlife habitats, controlling invasive species, and promoting biodiversity.

Ecological Restoration

Programs focused on the principles and practices of restoring degraded ecosystems, including reforestation, wetland rehabilitation, and soil restoration.

Sustainable Land Management

Training in sustainable practices for managing and conserving natural landscapes, ensuring long term ecological health.

Vocational or VET programs often include internships or apprenticeships, allowing you to gain real life experience while learning from experienced professionals.

Micro-Learning and Online Courses

You may value flexibility and prefer the ability to learn at your own pace, if so micro-learning and online courses offer convenient and targeted education. These courses are ideal for people looking to quickly acquire specific skills or enhance their existing knowledge. 

Platforms like Rewilding Academy, Rewilding Australia and Alison offer courses in:

Rewilding Techniques

Basics of rewilding, including habitat restoration, species reintroduction, and ecosystem monitoring.

Biodiversity and Conservation

Principles of biodiversity conservation, including strategies for protecting endangered species and preserving natural habitats.

Environmental Policy and Advocacy

Understanding environmental laws, policies, and advocacy techniques to promote conservation efforts.

These courses often include practical exercises, video tutorials, and assessments to reinforce learning and ensure mastery of the material.

Bootcamps and Intensive Workshops

For those seeking an immersive and accelerated learning experience, bootcamps and intensive workshops provide focused and practical training in a short time. These programs are typically hands-on and project-based, allowing you to develop skills quickly. 

Common topics covered in bootcamps include:

Ecological Field Techniques

Training in ecological surveying, species identification, habitat assessment, and data collection.

Restoration Ecology Projects

Participating in wildlife restoration projects, gaining practical experience in habitat restoration and species reintroduction.

Community Based Conservation

Learning how to engage and work with local communities to promote and implement rewilding projects.

Bootcamps often involve real world projects, collaborative learning, and mentorship from industry experts, providing valuable experience and networking opportunities.

Explore more about the apprenticeships available that could lead you to a Rewilder Career  https://www.apprenticeships.gov.au/apprentices/how-to-find-and-prepare-for-an-apprenticeship/check-your-literacy-and-numeracy-skills

Western Australia

In Western Australia, there are numerous opportunities for Rewilders to work in conservation organisations, government agencies, and environmental consulting firms. From managing national parks to conducting research on threatened species, the state offers a diverse range of career opportunities for those passionate about protecting and preserving its unique biodiversity.

Australia-Wide

Across Australia, Rewilders are in high demand in industries such as wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, and environmental education. Whether you’re working in remote wilderness areas, urban green spaces, or coastal ecosystems, there are plenty of opportunities to make a difference and contribute to the conservation of Australia’s natural heritage.

Some of the largest Rewilder employers are WWF Australia: https://wwf.org.au/what-we-do/rewilding-australia/ 

Or to explore what other jobs there are SEEK has a wide range of Wildlife jobs: https://www.seek.com.au/wildlife-jobs 

Rest of the World

Globally, there is growing recognition of the importance of rewilding in addressing biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. From Africa to Europe to the Americas, Rewilders are working on projects ranging from reintroducing native species to restoring degraded landscapes. With the right skills and experience, you could find yourself working on conservation projects anywhere in the world, making a positive impact on the planet’s ecological health and resilience.

Explore Conversation Careers globally: https://www.conservation-careers.com/restoration-and-rewilding-careers/ 

Embark on an unforgettable journey as a Rewilder and discover the magic of nature in all its beauty and wonder. With every step you take, you’ll be making a difference in the world and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations to enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s rewild the world together!