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Conservation Ecologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Expertise in forest ecology, conservation methods, and the impacts of climate change. * Good physical condition and the ability to traverse forestlands for long periods of time. * Must not have been ...

Field Ecologist

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

And, as part of our Ecological Restoration team, you will collaborate with 450+ designers ... An interest in ecosystems, natural resource conservation, and the outdoors. * Demonstrate ...

Interpret scientific data to support conservation strategies and environmental impact assessments ... Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, malacology, or a related field. Experience: 5+ years of ...

An interest in ecosystems, natural resource conservation, and the outdoors is essential. * The ... biology, ecology, natural resources, soil science or related natural resources field) with ...

An interest in ecosystems, natural resource conservation, and the outdoors is essential. * The ... biology, ecology, natural resources, soil science or related natural resources field) with ...

An interest in ecosystems, natural resource conservation, and the outdoors is essential. * The ... biology, ecology, natural resources, soil science or related natural resources field) with ...

An interest in ecosystems, natural resource conservation, and the outdoors is essential. * The ... biology, ecology, natural resources, soil science or related natural resources field) with ...

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Conservation Ecologist information

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$34.5K

$59.5K

$104K

How much do conservation ecologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation ecologist in the United States is $59,547.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Conservation Ecologist vs Wildlife Biologist?

AspectConservation EcologistWildlife Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related field; often requires fieldwork experienceBachelor's or Master's in Biology, Ecology, or related; often involves species-specific research
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in natural habitats, research institutions, conservation organizationsFieldwork, laboratories, research facilities, wildlife reserves
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, NGOs, research institutions focused on ecosystem conservationResearch institutions, government agencies, zoos, wildlife agencies

While both roles involve studying animals and ecosystems, Conservation Ecologists focus on protecting entire ecosystems and implementing conservation strategies, whereas Wildlife Biologists often concentrate on studying specific species. Conservation Ecologists typically work on broader environmental issues, making their roles complementary but distinct in scope and focus.

What are some common challenges Conservation Ecologists face when working on habitat restoration projects?

Conservation Ecologists often encounter challenges such as balancing ecological goals with the needs of local communities, managing limited funding, and addressing invasive species or changing climate conditions. Collaborating with stakeholders like landowners, government agencies, and non-profit groups is essential to navigate regulatory, logistical, and social complexities. Additionally, measuring the long-term success of restoration efforts can be difficult, requiring ongoing monitoring and adaptive management.

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

To thrive as a Conservation Ecologist, you need a strong background in ecology, environmental science, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant degree and field research experience. Familiarity with GIS software, statistical analysis tools, and environmental monitoring equipment is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help convey findings and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. These abilities are crucial for effectively managing conservation projects and promoting sustainable ecosystem practices.

What does a Conservation Ecologist do?

A Conservation Ecologist studies the relationships between living organisms and their environments, focusing on preserving biodiversity and natural habitats. They conduct field research, monitor ecosystems, and develop strategies to protect endangered species and restore damaged environments. Conservation Ecologists often collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and local communities to implement conservation plans and promote sustainable land use. Their work is essential for maintaining ecological balance and mitigating the impact of human activities on nature.
More about Conservation Ecologist jobs
What cities are hiring for Conservation Ecologist jobs? Cities with the most Conservation Ecologist job openings:
What states have the most Conservation Ecologist jobs? States with the most job openings for Conservation Ecologist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Conservation Ecologist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 2% Full Time, 90% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,547 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Plan, schedule, direct, and manage the Landscape Scale Fee Restoration program, including developing forest management plans and administrating forest restoration projects.

  • Conduct ecological surveys to gather data on soil, vegetation, water, and wildlife habitats, and analyze data using statistical software and GIS.

  • Prepare detailed scientific reports, technical documents, and presentations for various stakeholders.


Job description

Position Title: Forest Ecologist
Department: NR-Forestry
Compensation: DOE ($55,000 - $70,000)
Additional Note: Full-time, benefits, 3-year position
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities
The Forest Ecologist is responsible for planning, scheduling, directing, and managing the “Landscape Scale Fee Restoration” program, which includes developing forest management plans, administrating forest restoration projects, and conducting ecological surveys on Tribal Fee and Trust Lands. The incumbent should be familiar with the five core values of the Tribe and how those core values are expressed within the actions of the Program and the duties of this position. Must show the highest level of professional standards and promote a positive image of the Tribe and its administration at all times. Major duties include:
  • Responsible for administrating a $300,000 Forest Service grant award through FY2026-2029.
  • Work alongside Fish amp; Wildlife, Environmental Programs Office, and Water Resources to create desired forest structure for multiple wildlife species and their habitats, and ensure protection and restoration of biodiversity and water quality on the Coeur d’Alene Reservation.
  • Conduct ecological surveys to gather data on soil, vegetation, water, and wildlife habitats.
  • Use statistical software and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze data and identify patterns.
  • Prepare detailed scientific reports, technical documents, and presentations for various stakeholders.
  • Develop and implement forest management plans (FMP), and environmental analyses (EA) that focus on sustainability, biodiversity, and align with Tribal values.
  • Track the effects of climate change, invasive species, and human activities on forest ecosystems.
  • Ensure Tribal lands are maintained in accordance with administrative objectives, Tribal values and goals.
  • Monitor forest road usage and check for Tribal permits.
  • Enforce trespass and theft of timber resources on Fee and Trust Lands.
  • As qualified, develop and oversee research projects to address specific ecological questions.
  • As qualified, assist in fire suppression and prescribed burning.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of stand conditions, environmental considerations, forest ecology, and silviculture of the major forest cover types found on the Coeur d’Alene Reservation.
  • Experience with Forest Projection and Planning System (FPS) and/or Forest Vegetation Simulator (FVS)
  • Ability to interact tactfully and diplomatically with other departments, Tribal members, Tribal leadership, employees, and contractors.
  • Ability to write technical reports, prepare maps and graphs, analyze data, and to summarize results, reports, and findings to multiple stakeholders.
  • Ability to use Microsoft Word, Microsoft Access, Excel, ArcGIS and/or ArcPro.
  • Knowledge and experience in firefighting and/or prescribed burning techniques.
  • Knowledge of ecological sampling techniques.
Desired Qualifications
  • A Master’s Degree in Forestry, Forest Ecology, or related field of science. However, a Bachelor’s Degree might be considered with extensive experience.
  • A minimum of five years of experience in forest management, silviculture, and/or ecology. Preferably, at least two years of the required experience was with a Tribal natural resource management program.
  • Must possess a valid State driver's license and maintain a good driving record, capable of being insured.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and written/verbal communication skills are essential.
  • Expertise in forest ecology, conservation methods, and the impacts of climate change.
  • Good physical condition and the ability to traverse forestlands for long periods of time.
  • Must not have been convicted of a felony involving dishonesty within the past five years.
Work Environment
  • Roughly 75% of the work will be performed in the office with the Forestry Program at the Department of Natural Resources Building in Plummer Idaho. The remaining 25% will be spent working with other programs such as Fish amp; Wildlife, Land Services, and/or the Forest Service, and will require working in the field on restoration projects, administrating forest regulations, and conducting ecological surveys.
  • This position will report to the Forestry Manager, and will not have supervisory responsibilities.
Guidelines are provided by the Coeur d'Alene Policies and Procedures Manual, Forest Management Plan, federal laws and regulations, Bureau of Indian Affairs manuals and handbooks and technical publications. Other guidance includes scientific literature, environmental assessments, silvicultural prescriptions, written and oral communication from the Forest Manager and other employees of the Natural Resources Department. Professional judgement within those guidelines is necessary to meet landowner objectives, field conditions and special situations.
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An applicant may be asked to participate in an interview to establish whether he/she meets the minimum qualifications. Interviews do not create a right to employment and provide no promise or guarantee of employment with the Tribe.
The Coeur d’Alene Tribe reserves the right to hire according to its Indian Preference Policy. Applicants are subject to a pre-employment drug test and at-random testing following employment. Positions with the Coeur d’Alene Tribe are subject to a 6-month orientation period.