ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

County of Oconee

Conservation Technician

Walhalla, SC

$19.14/hr

This position provides education of natural resource conservation and preservation for students in Oconee County; provides administrative and maintenance support to watershed flood protection dams ...

County of Oconee

Conservation Technician

Walhalla, SC · On-site

$19.14/hr

This position provides education of natural resource conservation and preservation for students in Oconee County; provides administrative and maintenance support to watershed flood protection dams ...

CEHMM

Range Conservation Scientist

Carlsbad, NM

$58K - $90K/yr

Description Range Conservation Scientist CEHMM a 501(c)3 non-profit conservation and environmental services organization, is seeking a full-time Range Conservation Scientist to develop technical ...

ntmw

Conservation Specialist

Wylie, TX · On-site

Position Summary The Conservation Specialist plays a key role in the Communications Department primarily supporting NTMWD's water conservation efforts along with water, wastewater, and solid waste ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsConservation Jobs

Conservation information

See salary details

$32K

$36.9K

$42K

How much do conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation in the United States is $36,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,500.00 and $38,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kind of jobs are in conservation?

Conservation jobs include roles such as wildlife biologists, environmental scientists, park rangers, conservation officers, and habitat restoration specialists. These positions often require fieldwork, data collection, and knowledge of ecological systems, with some roles needing certifications or advanced degrees. They are typically based in outdoor or protected environments and may involve working with government agencies, non-profits, or research institutions.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In conservation, high-paying roles such as chief conservation officers or senior environmental executives can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially in large organizations or consulting firms. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, often involving strategic planning and policy development. Such salaries are rare and usually include bonuses or profit-sharing components.

What are conservation jobs?

Conservation jobs are roles focused on protecting, managing, and restoring natural environments, wildlife, and resources. These professionals work in various settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, parks, research institutions, and private companies. Common positions include conservation scientists, wildlife biologists, park rangers, and environmental educators. The goal of conservation work is to ensure the long-term sustainability and health of ecosystems and biodiversity. Conservation jobs often involve fieldwork, research, policy development, and community outreach.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

High-paying sales roles such as real estate brokers or insurance agents can earn $10,000 or more per month through commissions, often without requiring a college degree. Success in these jobs depends on strong communication skills, a robust network, and sales experience, with some positions offering flexible schedules and performance-based pay.

What is the difference between Conservation vs Environmental Technician?

AspectConservationEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in environmental science, ecology, or related fieldOften requires an associate's or bachelor's degree in environmental science or related area
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in natural settings, conservation projects, parks, and wildlife areasField and laboratory work, environmental monitoring, site assessments
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, conservation organizations, parks, wildlife agenciesEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions

Conservation focuses on protecting natural resources and ecosystems through active management and preservation efforts, often involving fieldwork in natural settings. Environmental Technicians support environmental monitoring and assessment tasks, working in both field and lab environments. While both roles require related environmental credentials and may work in similar settings, Conservation emphasizes ecosystem preservation, whereas Environmental Technicians focus on data collection and environmental testing.

What Are Conservation Jobs?

Conservation jobs focus on managing and protecting natural land and wildlife. Your duties as a conservationist depend on your area of specialization. Naturalists or animal biologists, for example, may study endangered species and work to protect them from extinction. Other conservation professionals may manage land and monitor animal populations in nature reserves. You can also work in conservation lobbying or organize education programs for a conservation NGO. You can even work as a conservation officer, a career in which your responsibilities involve enforcing laws meant to protect natural lands and wildlife. This type of career could include park ranger positions or natural resources officer jobs.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in conservation roles, and how are they addressed within teams?

Conservation professionals often encounter challenges such as securing sustainable funding, balancing the needs of communities and ecosystems, and adapting to changing environmental regulations. These issues are typically addressed through close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, including scientists, policymakers, and local stakeholders. Regular team meetings, clear communication, and adaptive project management are essential to navigating these complexities and achieving conservation goals effectively.

What jobs can you do in conservation?

Conservation offers a variety of jobs including conservation scientist, wildlife biologist, park ranger, environmental educator, and habitat restoration specialist. These roles often require knowledge of ecology, fieldwork skills, and sometimes certifications such as GIS or environmental management. They typically involve working outdoors or in research settings to protect natural resources and ecosystems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Conservationist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Conservationist, you need a background in environmental science, ecology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, environmental monitoring tools, and sometimes certifications like Certified Conservation Professional (CCP) are commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills are crucial for engaging stakeholders and advancing conservation goals. These abilities ensure effective management of natural resources and successful implementation of conservation projects.
More about Conservation jobs
What cities are hiring for Conservation jobs? Cities with the most Conservation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation jobs? The most popular types of Conservation jobs are:
What states have the most Conservation jobs? States with the most job openings for Conservation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Conservation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Conservation jobs are:
Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,939 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Conservation Wetland Specialist

IOWA ASSN SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRIC

West Union, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Conservation Districts of Iowa
Conservation Wetland Specialist
West Union, Iowa
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Anticipated Start Date: Upon successful background check

The successful applicant would work in the following area:
·         Housed in the West Union USDA-NRCS office covering USDA-NRCS NE Area
These positions are funded through an agreement between the Conservation Districts of Iowa and the Iowa Natural Resource Conservation Service. Funding is secured through September of 2027 with the opportunity for extension.

Job Description:

Conservation Wetland Specialists will work to restore, protect, and enhance wetlands on private lands in Iowa by assisting with the delivery of USDA’s Agricultural Conservation Easement Program Wetland Reserve Easements (ACEP-WRE) as well as the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). Wetlands created using ACEP-WRE and CRP provide habitat for migratory waterfowl and other wetland dependent wildlife, including threatened and endangered species; improves water quality by filtering sediments and chemicals; reduces flooding; recharges groundwater; protects biological diversity; provides resilience to climate change; and provides opportunities for educational, scientific and limited recreational activities. 

As a Conservation Districts of Iowa (CDI) employee, you would work in partnership with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). You would serve as a member of the NRCS Easement Team, receiving training and daily direction from the NRCS Area Easement Specialist for the effective delivery of the ACEP-WRE program. You would also work closely with the DNR Private Lands Biologist to receive training on wildlife habitat assessment, development, and management to help ensure the intended wildlife benefits of the ACEP-WRE program. 

We expect the successful candidate to develop into an integral part of the effective delivery of wetland conservation using ACEP and CRP. This will involve coordinating with landowners and the easement team to develop applications, conservation management plans, compatible use authorizations, and restoration and/or stewardship plans. Additionally, the successful candidate will be responsible for conducting on-site and off-site monitoring and providing technical assistance and consultation to easement holders. At the end of the first year, success would mean that you have developed the skills and relationships necessary to assist landowners and your team members to implement wetland restoration, protection, and enhancement on the landscape using ACEP and CRP. 

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agencies. 
  • Ability to work independently with little supervision and with diverse clientele.
  • Ability to work outdoors in wetland environments and associated risks and difficulties, including but not limited to temperature, water, terrain, insects, and others.
  • Knowledge of wildlife ecology, wetland-associated threatened and endangered species, and wetland and upland management including the ability to utilize various habitat management tools in the development of management plans.
  • Knowledge of basic land survey principles, including use of laser-planes, GPS, and other survey instruments.
  • Knowledge of agricultural drainage practices, systems, and moist-soil management.
  • Knowledge of basic legal documents as related to land ownership and management.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication.
  • Proficiency with computer software programs such as Microsoft Office, ArcGIS or USDA Conservation Desktop. 
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Valid driver’s license required; some use of personal vehicle may be required (mileage reimbursement provided).
  • Ability to utilize UTV/ATV, including transport of such vehicles by trailer.
  • Some overnight and evening work required.
  • Able to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications: 

Bachelor of Science Degree in Conservation Ecology or closely related natural resources field and 1-year related field experience in wetland or wildlife habitat development and management.

Benefits to the Applicant:

  • Professional Development: Gain valuable experience and skills in wetland restoration, protection, and enhancement while working alongside experienced professionals in the field.
  • Impactful Work: Contribute to meaningful conservation efforts that benefit local ecosystems and wildlife, and make a tangible difference in environmental protection.
  • Networking Opportunities: Build strong professional relationships with landowners and conservation organizations, expanding your network within the industry.
  • Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and expertise through hands-on experience and professional development opportunities. Previous staff members have successfully leveraged their experience to secure permanent positions within the conservation field, demonstrating the strong potential for career advancement as a result of this experience.
  • Compensation and Benefits:
  • Hourly Rate: $18.47/hour
  • Health Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance coverage
  • Retirement Package: Retirement savings plan
  • Paid Time Off: Paid holidays and paid leave
  • Opportunities for Raises: Potential for salary increases based on performance
Please note that CDI reserves the right to amend or terminate any benefit plans. Participation in these benefits does not constitute a contract or guarantee of future employment.
To Apply: Please include your cover letter indicating which position(s) you are applying for, your resume, and three professional references as one PDF file. Send to Dien Judge at dien@cdiowa.org. CDI is an equal opportunity employer.