Nature-Based Solutions Specialist

Design and implement nature-based solutions including urban forests, green infrastructure, coastal wetland restoration, and natural flood management to address climate adaptation, biodiversity, and community wellbeing challenges. Conduct ecosystem services valuation, develop co-benefits analyses, and build business cases for nature-based investment. Engage with municipalities, developers, and conservation organizations to mainstream nature-based approaches in urban planning and infrastructure investment.

Median salary: $95,000. Projected growth to 2033: 12% (faster than average) - driven by biodiversity regulations and climate adaptation funding. Typical education: Master's Degree.

At a glance

Median salary: $95,000
Entry-level: $60,000 - $78,000
Senior: $140,000+
Growth by 2033: 12% (faster than average) - driven by biodiversity regulations and climate adaptation funding
Demand: Growing
Remote: Hybrid
Hours per week: 40-50 hours/week
Stress: Low

What you'd do

People interaction: Moderate
Team vs solo: 55% Team / 45% Solo
Client facing: Sometimes
Impact visibility: High

How to get there

Minimum education: Master's Degree
Licensing: No
Years to mid-career: 3-5 years
Years to senior: 7-10 years
Career switching: Moderate
Typical student debt: $35,000 - $70,000

Skills you'll use

Hard skills

Ecosystem Services Valuation (InVEST / ARIES)
Green Infrastructure Design
Urban Heat Island Mitigation
Natural Flood Management
Biodiversity Net Gain Assessment
IUCN Global Standard for Nature-Based Solutions

Soft skills

Ecological Knowledge
Stakeholder Engagement
Written Communication
Systems Thinking
Project Management

Technical complexity: Moderate

Typical career path

NbS Analyst
NbS Specialist
Senior Specialist
NbS Manager
Director of Nature-Based Solutions