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Socket.dev

Chief Conservation Officer

Missoula, MT · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Description CHIEF CONSERVATION OFFICER The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) is a mission-driven non-profit dedicated to ensuring the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting ...

Moss Interactive, LLC

Chief Operating Officer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

We are a leading marine conservation organization with a global reputation, recognized as one of ... The COO will lead a portfolio of operational functions directly and will work across the executive ...

Moss Interactive, LLC

$200 - $250/hr

We are a leading marine conservation organization with a global reputation, recognized as one of ... The COO will lead a portfolio of operational functions directly and will work across the executive ...

Fort Fisher Aquarium

Chief Financial Officer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

... and conservation of aquatic environments. The Society generates private funds to advance the ... Chief Financial Officer (CFO) The North Carolina Aquarium Society is seeking a high-level ...

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How much do chief conservation officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief conservation officer in the United States is $70,830.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $76,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief conservation officer do?

A Chief Conservation Officer (CCO) is responsible for leading and overseeing an organization's conservation strategies and initiatives. They develop, implement, and evaluate programs aimed at protecting natural resources and biodiversity. CCOs often collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders to advocate for sustainable practices and influence environmental policies. Their role also includes managing budgets, fundraising, and ensuring the organization's conservation goals align with its overall mission. Effective communication and leadership skills are essential for success in this position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief conservation officer?

To thrive as a Chief Conservation Officer, you need expertise in environmental science, conservation policy, and leadership, usually supported by an advanced degree in a related field and significant management experience. Familiarity with GIS software, data analysis tools, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required, and certifications in conservation management can be advantageous. Outstanding communication, strategic vision, and stakeholder engagement skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are vital for effectively leading conservation initiatives, securing funding, and building partnerships that drive long-term environmental impact.

How does a chief conservation officer typically collaborate with other departments to achieve organizational goals?

A Chief Conservation Officer (CCO) often works cross-functionally with departments such as research, fundraising, communications, and policy advocacy to align conservation strategies with overall organizational objectives. This collaboration involves regular meetings, joint project planning, and sharing data to ensure conservation initiatives are well-integrated and supported. The CCO also plays a key role in translating scientific findings into actionable programs and securing buy-in from stakeholders across the organization. Effective communication and leadership are critical, as the CCO must balance ecological priorities with funding constraints and public engagement.

What is the difference between Chief Conservation Officer vs Environmental Program Manager?

AspectChief Conservation OfficerEnvironmental Program Manager
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees in environmental science, conservation, or related fields; certifications like LEED or sustainability credentials are common.Bachelor’s or master’s in environmental science, management, or related fields; certifications may include project management or environmental compliance.
Work EnvironmentExecutive-level role overseeing conservation strategies, often in large organizations, NGOs, or government agencies.Manages specific environmental projects or programs within organizations, often in government, NGOs, or corporate settings.
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in conservation-focused organizations, NGOs, government agencies, and corporations with sustainability initiatives.Common in organizations implementing environmental policies, sustainability programs, and compliance efforts.

The Chief Conservation Officer focuses on high-level strategic conservation initiatives and policy development, while the Environmental Program Manager handles the planning and execution of specific environmental projects. Both roles require environmental expertise but differ in scope and seniority.

Who are the top companies hiring for Chief Conservation Officer jobs?

The top employers for Chief Conservation Officer jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Chief Conservation Officer jobs?

For Chief Conservation Officer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Chief Conservation Officer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,830 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Chief Conservation Officer

Missoula, MT • On-site

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
Non-Profits • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Rocky Mountain Elk Foundationexternal

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

CHIEF CONSERVATION OFFICER
The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) is a mission-driven non-profit dedicated to ensuring the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage. Since our founding in 1984, we have helped conserve nearly one square mile of elk country every day. In partnership with others, we have conserved or enhanced more than 9.2 million acres, including improving public access to more than 1.6 million acres. Our impact will extend to 10 million acres by 2030.
Building on this momentum, RMEF is seeking an experienced and strategic Chief Conservation Officer (CCO) to serve as member of the leadership team. The CCO is responsible for building multi-sector and multi-stakeholder partnerships focused on mission delivery and future initiatives. The CCO oversees advocacy and governmental affairs, representing RMEF with federal and state agencies, NGOs and other associated groups/individuals supporting impactful mission delivery. This position serves as a key representative of the organization's conservation priorities with appropriate decision-makers, partners, donors, our membership, and the public.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Advise the CEO and Executive Team on positioning of RMEF conservation programs
  • Provide strategic input in the development and implementation of mission initiatives
  • Oversee advocacy work of the organization on a federal, state, and local level
  • Serve as a co-liaison or advisor role with board committees, sub-committees, and working groups
  • Ensure that RMEF is informed, engaged and well-represented on issues and communications within relevant scientific, conservation, governmental and sportsmen communities
  • Serve as a key resource in maintaining RMEF's role as the go-to authority on elk
  • Represent RMEF at national, and some state, government meetings/events to sustain RMEF's highly respected reputation, as well as secure organizational support and funding
  • Assist in forming and strategizing RMEF positions on relevant issues
  • Represent RMEF on national-level groups, and as necessary at the regional level, and leverage these networks to assist RMEF with development and mission accomplishment
  • Identify and cultivate relationships with corporations, private landowners, foundations, government agencies, and others to secure funds and position RMEF as a respected leader in the conservation world

This is an extraordinary opportunity for a senior conservation leader to help shape the future of conservation in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.
Location: The CCO position is based at RMEF Headquarters in Missoula, Montana, full-time.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in natural resources or a related field
  • Eight-plus years of experience working in natural resources
  • Five years of experience working in a senior-level leadership position
  • Strong emphasis on land management, lands administration, natural resource policy, or environmental planning
  • Experience working with federal, state, or national conservation organizations and issues
  • Demonstrated experience in supervision, leadership, organizational management, and program management
  • Experience in public relations is desirable

Physical Demands:
  • This position will encounter both office and field conditions
  • Office work will require sitting or standing for extended periods of time, frequent use of office equipment such as telephones and computers
  • Frequent travel by automobile, airplane, foot, or mechanized ORV's will be required. Walking, hiking, climbing, and riding may all be required

Essential Functions:
  1. Advise the CEO and Executive Team on positioning of RMEF conservation programs, with forward thinking, relevancy, and advancement as the focus.
  2. Provide strategic input in the development and implementation of mission initiatives, with the purpose of delivering impactful results throughout targeted sectors.
  3. Oversee advocacy work of the organization on a federal, state, and local level. Direct the staff and contractors responsible for our advocacy work and position statement implementation, ensuring full vetting of communications, positions, and partnerships in advocacy efforts.
  4. As assigned, serve as a co-liaison or advisor role with board committees, sub-committees, and working groups, primarily related to mission initiatives, planning, and delivery strategies.
  5. Ensure that RMEF is informed, engaged and well-represented on issues and communications within relevant scientific, conservation, governmental and sportsmen communities. Facilitate relationships which further RMEF's knowledge and understanding of key elk issues related to forest and habitat management, elk biology, hunting, predator management, and disease. Serve as a key resource in maintaining RMEF's role as the go-to authority on elk.
  6. Represent RMEF at national, and some state, government meetings/events to sustain RMEF's premium reputation, as well as secure organizational support and funding. Assist in forming and strategizing RMEF position on relevant issues. Lead discussions regarding national conservation policies & issues and assist in decisions related to RMEF policies and positions that may be affected.
  7. Represents RMEF on national level groups, and as necessary at regional, including national meetings, seminars, and symposiums. Leverage these networks and contacts to assist RMEF with development and mission accomplishment.
  8. Identify and cultivate relationships with corporations, private landowners, foundations, government agencies, and others to secure funds and position RMEF as a respected leader in the conservation world. Provide leadership, direction, and mentorship to other staff on how to establish these relationships and secure funding.

Additional Responsibilities:
Represent the RMEF at local, regional, and national meetings, seminars and symposiums that deal with natural resource management, land trust activities, and related fields of resource management. Provide staff and volunteers with project information, resource issue insights, and suggested strategies.
Other duties as assigned.
Supervision of Others:
The CCO position oversees the Director of Government Affairs position and other areas as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
  1. Thorough knowledge of the RMEF's mission, goals, organizational structure, and activities including biological, social, and political elements that shape them, and the ability to promote them.
  2. Sound grasp of advocacy space RMEF exists in on daily basis. Understanding of land issues (public and private), big game conservation matters, state, and federal agency workings and RMEF's brand in these spaces. Ability to identify funding sources and seek funding support of these initiatives.
  3. Knowledge and demonstrated success in fundraising.
  4. Knowledge of the roles, authorities and responsibilities of federal, state, and county governments and work-related experience dealing with at least one level of government.
  5. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate constructively with a wide variety of entities.
  6. Ability to perceive and establish long-term goals, to develop and implement programs that are cohesive, progressive, and that are mission-oriented.
  7. Ability to develop and manage a budget. Fiscal responsibility.
  8. An understanding of the responsibilities and mission of public land management organizations, public wildlife management organizations, and non-profit conservation organizations.
  9. Ability to work with other departments within the organization and be an influential, respected team member. Must coordinate a variety of activities with diverse groups.
  10. Must have excellent presentation and public speaking skills with the ability to adapt to a variety of different audiences.
  11. Must have strong leadership skills with the ability to manage, to provide direction for, to support and to motivate staff.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of the job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities, or requirements

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