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Conservation Data Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Data Architect

Herndon, VA · On-site

$69 - $92.50/hr

... Conservation's Enterprise Data and Analytics Platform. The role involves translating business ... Qualifications : Required : • Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Systems ...

Senior Data Architect

Herndon, VA · On-site

$69.25 - $92.50/hr

We are seeking a Senior Data Architect to support the USDA Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related field. * 10+ ...

... conservation biology, or environmental science. * Knowledge of federal and state environmental laws and regulatory processes. * Digitizing, analysis, and map making experience in ArcGIS Pro. * Data ...

You guide clients through complex challenges-whether related to environmental data management, scientific research systems, permitting and compliance workflows, conservation initiatives, climate ...

Applied Sciences and Natural Resources Title: Stewardship Tech State Role Title: Admin & Office ... DCR's Mission is to conserve the natural, scenic, historic, and cultural resources of the ...

Ability to explain Newton laws, conservation principles, electromagnetic theory, wave superposition ... science sections. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at breaking down multi-step ...

Ability to explain Newton laws, conservation principles, electromagnetic theory, wave superposition ... science sections. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at breaking down multi-step ...

Ability to explain Newton laws, conservation principles, electromagnetic theory, wave superposition ... science sections. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at breaking down multi-step ...

Ability to explain Newton laws, conservation principles, electromagnetic theory, wave superposition ... science sections. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at breaking down multi-step ...

Ability to explain Newton laws, conservation principles, electromagnetic theory, wave superposition ... science sections. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at breaking down multi-step ...

Ability to explain Newton laws, conservation principles, electromagnetic theory, wave superposition ... science sections. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at breaking down multi-step ...

Ability to explain Newton laws, conservation principles, electromagnetic theory, wave superposition ... science sections. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled at breaking down multi-step ...

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Showing results 1-20

Conservation Data Science information

See Virginia salary details

$37.2K

$121.7K

$194.8K

How much do conservation data science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation data science in Virginia is $121,686.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $134,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects or datasets do Conservation Data Scientists typically work with?

Conservation Data Scientists often engage with projects analyzing biodiversity trends, wildlife populations, land use changes, or climate impact assessments by working with geospatial, remote sensing, and field survey datasets. This role may involve building predictive models for species distribution, conducting statistical analyses to guide conservation policy, or creating data visualizations for stakeholder reports. You’ll commonly collaborate with ecologists, GIS specialists, field researchers, and policy teams to ensure data-driven decision-making. Working in this field provides exposure to practical conservation challenges and offers opportunities to contribute directly to environmental preservation initiatives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Conservation Data Science position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Conservation Data Science, a strong foundation in data analysis, statistics, ecology or environmental science, and a relevant academic background such as a bachelor's or master's degree is essential. Familiarity with tools such as R, Python, GIS software, and experience working with large ecological datasets or conservation platforms is often required. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and communication skills enable collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and effective translation of data insights to non-technical stakeholders. These capabilities are crucial for transforming complex environmental data into actionable conservation strategies and measurable impact.

Is data science oversaturated now?

Data science roles, including conservation data science, remain in demand due to the growing importance of data-driven decision making. While competition has increased, acquiring skills in programming, statistics, and domain knowledge can improve job prospects, and opportunities exist across various sectors including environmental conservation, technology, and healthcare.

Can data scientists make $300k?

Data scientists can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in machine learning, and work in high-paying industries or senior roles. Achieving this level often requires a strong educational background, specialized certifications, and experience with tools like Python or R. Compensation varies by location, company size, and individual expertise.

What is the highest paying conservation job?

The highest paying conservation jobs are often senior roles such as Conservation Directors or Chief Conservation Officers, who oversee large programs and strategic initiatives. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and skills in project management, policy, and data analysis, with salaries often exceeding six figures depending on the organization and location.

What is a Conservation Data Science job?

A Conservation Data Science job involves using data analysis, machine learning, and geographic information systems (GIS) to support environmental and wildlife conservation efforts. Professionals in this field collect, clean, and analyze ecological data to identify trends, model species distributions, and inform conservation policies. They often collaborate with researchers, government agencies, and nonprofits to optimize resource management and biodiversity protection. This role requires proficiency in programming, statistics, and domain-specific knowledge of conservation science.

What is the 80 20 rule in data science?

In data science, the 80/20 rule, also known as Pareto principle, suggests that roughly 80% of results come from 20% of the efforts or data. Conservation data scientists often use this principle to focus on the most impactful variables or data subsets to optimize analysis and resource allocation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation Data Science jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Conservation Data Science jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Conservation Data Science jobs in Virginia? For Conservation Data Science jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Conservation Data Science jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Conservation Data Science jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Conservation Data Science jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Conservation Data Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Conservation Data Science job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,686 per year, or $58.5 per hour.
Beth McGee Science Fellowship

Beth McGee Science Fellowship

Chesapeake Bay Foundation Inc.

Richmond, VA • On-site

$50K - $56K/yr

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Description:

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation seeks a Beth McGee Science Fellow in the Advocacy and Restoration Department as a hybrid position which can report to CBF locations in Annapolis MD, Harrisburg PA, Richmond VA, or Hampton Roads VA.


THE CHESAPEAKE BAY FOUNDATION

Established in 1966, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) is the largest regional nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to saving the Chesapeake Bay, its rivers and streams, and the wildlife that call it home. Through our education, advocacy, litigation, and restoration efforts, we work together toward our vision of a healthy and resilient Chesapeake Bay ecosystem where people, plants, and animals thrive together.

CBF has a staff of approximately 200 employees working in offices in Annapolis, Maryland; Richmond and Virginia Beach, Virginia; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and Washington, D.C. as well as 15 field education program locations. Our staff and volunteer corps work throughout the region educating students and adults, advocating for clean water policies, restoring waterways, and litigating when necessary.


CBF’s headquarters office in Annapolis, Maryland is the Philip Merrill Environmental Center, the world’s first U.S. Green Build Council’s LEED platinum building. In 2014, CBF opened the Brock Environmental Center—one of the world’s most energy efficient, environmentally smart buildings—in Virginia Beach, Virginia.


DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION

Advocacy and Restoration Department defends and restores the Chesapeake Bay by protecting the Bay s natural resources from pollution and other harmful activities by fighting for strong and effective laws and regulations; restoring the Bay s essential habitats and filtering mechanisms; and involving citizens in CBF s environmental efforts by recruiting, training, and incorporating them as effective partners and leaders.


CONTEXT OF POSITION

The Beth McGee Science Fellowship is in honor of longtime CBF scientist Dr. Beth McGee who passed away in June of 2023. Beth was dedicated to having science inform policy and to the mentorship of young professionals in the conservation field. The Beth McGee Science Fellowship is a part-time position with CBF working alongside a member of the Advocacy and Restoration Department to tackle emerging issues related to the restoration of Chesapeake Bay and its watershed. The focus of the fellowship will be to help inform CBF’s policies and positions through the application of emerging science and research related to water quality, climate change, land and water restoration practices. There is an opportunity for a candidate-proposed focus if it aligns with the scope of the position.

*This is a part-time position for 8 to 9 months*


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Work closely with scientists and other staff in the Advocacy and Restoration Department to develop a series of white papers, informative briefs, and other work products that help CBF respond to complex and/or unaddressed scientific challenges and concerns that constrain restoration and protection of the Chesapeake Bay and its watershed.
  • Assist in compilation and analysis of water quality, climate, economic, and agricultural data to inform restoration and policy positions and actions.
  • Conduct literature reviews on relevant Chesapeake Bay climate and water quality issues and identify, evaluate, and recommend tools, resources, and information that respond to emerging concerns.
  • Develop and apply communications skills to internally and externally disseminate scientific information. Design and deliver presentations, briefing papers, and other communication work products.
Requirements:
  • Current graduate student or in a postdoctoral program in a science field that has relevance to the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay and its watershed
  • Experience researching and communicating about water quality, climate change, agriculture, fisheries, and restoration science and policy is preferred
  • *PLEASE SUBMIT A WRITING SAMPLE WITH YOUR APPLICATION*