The Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB) is a voluntary professional credential from The Wildlife Society. It shows that a wildlife professional meets recognized standards for education, experience and ethics. Nobody in Canada is required to hold it to work in the field.
Official website ↗The CWB is an international credential, and Canadian wildlife professionals can earn and use it. It is meant for people who work in wildlife science and management, such as conservation scientists and zoologists. Holding it signals that your training and work history have been reviewed by a respected professional body.
Because it is voluntary, you can work in wildlife careers without it. Many people choose to earn it anyway. It can help your resume stand out, support your credibility on reports and projects, and show employers and clients that you follow a code of professional ethics. Some employers value it when hiring or promoting, but it is not a legal licence to practise.
There is no written exam for the CWB. Instead, your application is assessed by reviewers. They look at your education, your work experience and your commitment to professional ethics.
The CWB must be renewed on a regular schedule to stay active. You will need to show ongoing professional development, such as training, workshops, conferences or other learning. Keep records of what you do so renewal is simple.