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Conservation Ecology Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

... ecological interactions quantitatively. Emphasizes scientific reasoning and experimental design, connecting biology to biomedical research, biotechnology, conservation biology, and public health ...

Skilled at breaking down cell processes, inheritance patterns, and ecological relationships for ... conservation, public health, and careers in the life sciences. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive ...

Life Sciences Tutor

Rochester, NY · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, organismal biology ... environmental conservation, and biotechnology career applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Conservation Ecology information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$33.1K

$38.2K

$43.5K

How much do conservation ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation ecology in Rochester, NY is $38,234.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,700.00 and $39,300.00 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 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?

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 jobs can you get with environmental conservation?

With a background in conservation ecology, common jobs include wildlife biologist, conservation scientist, environmental consultant, park ranger, and habitat restoration specialist. These roles often require fieldwork, data analysis, and knowledge of ecological tools and regulations.

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 and develops strategies to protect and restore natural habitats. They often conduct field research, analyze data using GIS tools, and collaborate with policymakers to promote sustainable practices.

What can I do with a conservation ecology degree?

A conservation ecology degree prepares individuals for careers in environmental management, research, and policy. Common roles include conservation scientist, wildlife biologist, environmental consultant, and park ranger, often requiring fieldwork, data analysis, and knowledge of ecological tools and regulations.

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Conservation Ecology jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Conservation Ecology job openings:

Infographic showing various Conservation Ecology job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,446 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Ecological Construction & Restoration Program Manager

LaBella Associates

Rochester, NY • On-site

$90K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


LaBella Associates rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

184th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

We are currently seeking a Program Manager for our growing Ecological Construction & Restoration Program in New York State. The successful candidate must have experience managing ecological construction projects such as wetland construction/rehabilitation, stream and shoreline restoration, invasive species control, habitat creation/restoration, native planting and seeding, and green infrastructure projects.
This is an opportunity to take a fledgling program and expand it in scope and geography to assist our partners in building hazard resiliency and aid in environmental restoration and conservation. We are looking for someone who is experienced, mission-driven and excited to develop and implement a vision with our team.
This position may be based out of our Rochester, Buffalo, Syracuse, or Ballston Spa offices.
Duties
  • Oversee ecological construction operations throughout the Northeastern US with current focus in New York State.
  • Estimating and proposal preparation.
  • Business development activities including but not limited to attending conferences, networking events and other tasks designed to grow this business sector.
  • Project management, including tracking project budgets, client interaction, scheduling staff and equipment, reviewing deliverables, interacting with agency representatives, etc.
  • Supervision and mentoring of junior staff.
  • Establishing and maintaining relationships with public agencies, regulators, private developers, consulting and engineering firms and non-profits to further business development goals.
  • Program budgeting and strategic planning.

Requirements
  • A Bachelor's degree in environmental science, natural resources, ecology, geography or related field.
  • Experience: 12-20 years of experience with a minimum of 10 years progressive experience in the industry.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Well versed in relevant NY State and Federal regulations.
  • Experience leading and mentoring junior staff.
  • Demonstrated ability to pursue, establish and maintain client business relationships.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • OSHA 30 Hour Construction Safety Training.
  • Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) or Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) certification a plus.

Salary Range: $90,000 - $135,000
The specific salary offered may be influenced by a variety of factors including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, education, and work location.
Benefits
Body, mind, and wallet-LaBella's benefits support a holistic approach to your health and wellness, creating the foundation for physical, mental, and financial well-being. Our benefit offerings cover the must-haves (healthcare and retirement), the just-in-cases (insurances and employee assistance programs), and the cherry-on-tops (fitness reimbursements, year-end incentive pay, and tuition assistance). Visit our website for more details on benefits listed below.
  • Flexible Work Schedule
  • Health/Dental Insurance
  • 401k Plan with Employer Match
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Short & Long Term Disability
  • Profit Sharing
  • Paid Time Off
  • Leadership Development Program
  • Fitness Reimbursement
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Referral Bonus Program
  • Wellness Program
  • Team Building Events
  • Community Service Events

LaBella is committed to facilitating a culture where diversity, equity, and inclusion are respected, valued, and celebrated by implementing thoughtful, practical, and innovative strategies that support our employees and serve the communities in which we reside. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws.
LaBella Associates does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiting professionals or agencies, nor do we accept resumes from any source that does not reference a specific, open position. LaBella Associates will not be responsible for any fees arising from the use of resume submitted by recruiting professionals or agencies that do not have a current placement fee agreement with LaBella Associates. All initial communication with recruiting professionals or agencies must go through human resources.

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