If you want an administrative job as a natural resources manager, you should specialize in the Social Sciences area of this field. The duties involved in the job include directing or assisting in the process of planning, developing and administering the specific natural resource program or service. You will have to work in evaluating changes in policies or new programs. Coordinating visitor or educational programs is one of the tasks for which you will be responsible and you can take part in any cultural research that your employer may need. This research will help in the identification and development of cultural resources that may affect land development in the region.
As a natural resources manager, you can expect to attend a wide variety of meetings, conferences and seminars. Depending on your education and experience, you may be called upon to give presentations to various groups, especially if you are looking for funding. Another aspect of finding sources of funding is to be able to write grant proposals and this is a skill in itself. The training of staff is also something you will be responsible for and you do need to have knowledge of or experience in developing annual budgets.
One of the important facets of becoming a natural resources manager is to have comprehensive knowledge of how to manage both cultural and natural resources. You will need to know how to maintain ecosystems and the general needs for different forms of wildlife that live in your area. When developing opportunities for recreation in an area, such as the building of a park or establishing hiking trails through wooded areas, you do have to implement an environmental impact study to find ways of minimizing the effects these will have on the natural resources of the area. You will also have to determine if there are any endangered species of plants or animals in the area, for which you will have to develop a policy regarding their care and treatment.
There is more to qualifying for the position of natural resources manager than having the required education and knowledge. You need to be a person that loves the outdoors and at the same time you can interact well with government officials and legislators. At times you may have to lobby the government for changes top policy or to obtain funding or permission for various projects. This calls for excellent written and oral communication skills, good public speaking skills and good interpersonal skills to develop and maintain good working relationships.
