Pay for basic entry level field work is low but many factors at play. Private sector generally pays better than non-profit or government. Knowing native plant and animal species and their conservation status, along with knowing invasive species and how to manage can quickly lift you above entry level. Having certifications in soil, or water quality, or CRAM will boost pay and can lead to independent consulting work. All the field data goes into reports so word processing, spreadsheet and ArcGIS skills are another boost.