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Conservation Consultant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ntmw

Conservation Specialist

Wylie, TX · On-site

Collaborate with NTMWD consultants and vendors on current and future projects and programs. Assist ... water conservation best management practices, drought-tolerant landscaping and water efficient ...

CA Conservation Corps

Conservationist I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$3.4K - $5.7K/mo

Career Consultation California Conservation Corps is excited to take part in the first agency-wide collaborative physical career center. The career center is located in the heart of Downtown ...

Pheasants Forever

$46K - $66K/yr

This position offers a unique opportunity to modernize conservation delivery by work directly with farmers, private landowners, consultants, retail ag and partners to analyze operations based on ...

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How much do conservation consultant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for conservation consultant in the United States is $41.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.33 and $49.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Conservation Consultant do?

A Conservation Consultant advises organizations, governments, and private landowners on how to manage natural resources sustainably and protect the environment. They conduct assessments, develop conservation plans, and provide recommendations to improve land use, restore habitats, and comply with environmental regulations. Their work often involves collaborating with various stakeholders, conducting field research, and ensuring that projects align with ecological best practices. By leveraging their expertise, Conservation Consultants help balance development and conservation goals to promote biodiversity and long-term ecological health.

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

Conservation Consultants require a strong background in environmental science, ecology, or natural resource management, often supported by a relevant degree and field experience. Familiarity with GIS software, environmental impact assessment tools, and certifications such as Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) are commonly needed. Excellent communication, project management, and stakeholder engagement skills help build consensus and advance conservation goals. These abilities are vital for designing effective conservation strategies, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering sustainable environmental outcomes.

What is the difference between Conservation Consultant vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectConservation ConsultantEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related field; certifications like Certified Environmental Professional (CEP)Bachelor's or Master's in Environmental Science, Ecology, or related field; often advanced degrees for research roles
Work EnvironmentConsulting firms, government agencies, NGOs; fieldwork and office workResearch labs, government agencies, academia; fieldwork and laboratory work
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by consulting firms, NGOs, government for conservation projectsUsed in research, academia, government environmental agencies

While both roles focus on environmental protection, Conservation Consultants primarily advise on conservation strategies and work directly with clients on projects, whereas Environmental Scientists often conduct research and analyze data to inform policies and scientific understanding. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments but differ in focus and application.

How does a Conservation Consultant typically collaborate with landowners and local communities to implement conservation initiatives?

Conservation Consultants frequently work directly with landowners, local governments, and community groups to design and implement conservation strategies tailored to specific ecological and social contexts. This often involves conducting site assessments, facilitating workshops, and negotiating agreements that balance conservation goals with land use needs. Building trust and maintaining clear communication are key, as consultants must ensure that all stakeholders understand the benefits and requirements of proposed initiatives. Successful collaboration often leads to long-term partnerships and measurable conservation outcomes.
More about Conservation Consultant jobs
What states have the most Conservation Consultant jobs? States with the most job openings for Conservation Consultant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Conservation Consultant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Conservation Consultant jobs are:
Conservation Consultant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation Consultant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,430 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Conservation Wetland Specialist

IOWA ASSN SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRIC

West Union, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Be an early applicant

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.