1

Conservation Ecology Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

... Conservation Plans (HCPs), and large-scale environmental constraints analyses. Primary duties ... Bachelor's degree in related fields (biology, ecology, or project management/controls). * 8 years ...

... Conservation Plans (HCPs), and large-scale environmental constraints analyses. Primary duties ... Bachelor's degree in related fields (biology, ecology, or project management/controls). * 8 years ...

Education and Experience University degree in an environmental (botany, biology, ecology, natural ... Conservation Authority for Western Riverside MSHCP permitting and compliance. Experience or ...

Education and Experience University degree in an environmental (botany, biology, ecology, natural ... Conservation Authority for Western Riverside MSHCP permitting and compliance. Experience or ...

Conservation Ecology information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$33.4K

$38.5K

$43.8K

How much do conservation ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation ecology in Riverside, CA is $38,537.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $39,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is conservation ecology?

Conservation ecology is a branch of ecology focused on understanding, preserving, and restoring biodiversity and natural ecosystems. It involves studying the interactions between organisms and their environments, as well as the effects of human activities on these systems. Conservation ecologists work to develop strategies for protecting endangered species, managing habitats, and maintaining ecological balance for future generations.

What can I do with a conservation biology and ecology degree?

A conservation biology and ecology degree prepares individuals for careers such as conservation scientist, wildlife biologist, environmental consultant, or park ranger. These roles often involve fieldwork, data analysis, and environmental management, requiring skills in research, GIS tools, and understanding of ecological principles.

What is the highest paying ecology job?

The highest paying ecology jobs are often in environmental consulting, ecological research leadership, or senior conservation management roles, which can offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. Positions requiring advanced degrees, specialized skills, and extensive experience tend to have higher compensation in the field of conservation ecology.

What are some typical challenges conservation ecologists face when implementing field projects?

Conservation ecologists often encounter challenges such as securing adequate funding, navigating regulatory requirements, and managing stakeholder expectations during field projects. Working in remote or sensitive habitats can pose logistical difficulties, including transportation, equipment maintenance, and unpredictable weather. Additionally, balancing conservation goals with the needs of local communities and landowners requires effective communication and negotiation skills.

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 solid background in ecology, biodiversity, and environmental science, usually supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, statistical analysis programs, and conservation planning tools is often required, along with relevant fieldwork experience. Strong communication, problem-solving, and project management skills help you collaborate with diverse stakeholders and advocate for conservation initiatives. These competencies are crucial for designing effective conservation strategies, conducting impactful research, and promoting sustainable ecosystem management.

What is the highest paying job in conservation?

The highest paying jobs in conservation ecology are often senior roles such as Conservation Director, Environmental Manager, or Chief Sustainability Officer, which can offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong leadership skills, often involving strategic planning and policy development.

What is the difference between Conservation Ecology vs Wildlife Biologist?

AspectConservation EcologyWildlife Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Ecology, Environmental Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Biology, Ecology, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch projects, fieldwork, policy developmentField surveys, research, conservation programs
Employer & IndustryEnvironmental agencies, NGOs, research institutionsWildlife agencies, conservation organizations, research labs

Both Conservation Ecology and Wildlife Biologist roles focus on protecting species and habitats, often involving fieldwork and research. Conservation Ecology emphasizes ecosystem-level management and policy, while Wildlife Biologists typically focus on studying specific species. The roles overlap in skills and work environments, but Conservation Ecology tends to have a broader ecological scope.

What does a conservation ecologist do?

A conservation ecologist studies ecosystems and species to understand how human activities impact the environment. They develop strategies to protect biodiversity, restore habitats, and ensure sustainable use of natural resources, often using fieldwork, data analysis, and ecological modeling. The role may require knowledge of GIS tools and relevant certifications in ecology or environmental science.
What are popular job titles related to Conservation Ecology jobs in Riverside, CA? For Conservation Ecology jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Conservation Ecology jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Conservation Ecology job openings:
Infographic showing various Conservation Ecology job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 64% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,537 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Lecturer Pool ad - Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

University of California - Irvine

Irvine, CA • On-site

$70K - $199K/yr

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


University Of California Irvine rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 613 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position overview
Salary range: A reasonable estimate for this position is $70,977 - $199,722. See Table 15 Unit 18 Faculty - Pre-Six Lecturers for the salary range for this position.
Application Window

Open date: May 12, 2026

Most recent review date: Saturday, Jun 13, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.

Final date: Wednesday, Mar 31, 2027 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

Position description

The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology fill Lecturer positions for the academic year 2026-2027. These individuals will serve a number of program priorities in our undergraduate and graduate degree programs, which include: Biological Sciences, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Exercise Science, Biology/Education, and Conservation and Restoration Science.

Examples of opportunities to teach include the following areas:
* General Biology
* Physiology
* Evolution
* Terrestrial Ecology
* Freshwater Ecology
* Exercise Science
* Environmental Policy
* Ornithology
* Quantitative Methods
* Conservation Ecology
* Plant Biology

Examples of the curricular programs can be found on the department website.

The successful candidate will have an extensive academic background, previous teaching experience and an advanced degree (M.S., Ph.D.) contributing to the areas of need for this department. Qualified candidates should submit a Cover Letter and a Curriculum Vitae that includes information describing previous employment, prior teaching experience, and the names of three references to the online recruitment, JPF10116.

Questions about the position and program can be sent to Dr. Travis Huxman, Professor and Chair, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (thuxman@uci.edu).

Qualifications
Basic qualifications (required at time of application)

Accepting all applicants.

Application Requirements
Document requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

  • Cover Letter

  • Teaching Statement - See our guidance for writing a reflective teaching statement.

  • Statement of Research (Optional)

Reference requirements
  • 3-5 required (contact information only)
Apply link: https://recruit.ap.uci.edu/JPF10116
About UC Irvine

The University of California, Irvine is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC anti-discrimination policy.
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

  • "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
  • APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

Job location
Irvine, CA

What University Of California Irvine employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom