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Conservation Ecology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Miami University

Visiting Faculty - Project Dragonfly

$17.75 - $24/hr

Doctoral degree in ecology, evolution, conservation biology or a closely related discipline; or a master's degree in ecology, evolution, conservation biology or a closely related field such as ...

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Conservation Ecology information

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$32K

$36.9K

$42K

How much do conservation ecology jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation ecology in the United States is $36,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,500.00 and $38,000.00 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 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 can I do with an ecology and conservation 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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

In conservation ecology, high-paying roles such as senior environmental consultants, ecological project managers, or specialized researchers can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or consulting contracts. These positions often require expertise in fieldwork, data analysis, and environmental policy, and may involve freelance or contract work for higher daily rates.

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, often using fieldwork, data analysis, and ecological modeling. Their work may involve habitat restoration, environmental policy, and collaboration with stakeholders to promote sustainable practices.
More about Conservation Ecology jobs
What cities are hiring for Conservation Ecology jobs? Cities with the most Conservation Ecology job openings:
What states have the most Conservation Ecology jobs? States with the most job openings for Conservation Ecology jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Conservation Ecology jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Conservation Ecology jobs are:
Conservation Ecology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation Ecology job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, 63% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 54% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 42% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,939 per year, or $17.8 per hour.
Individual Placement - Habitat Restoration Tech

Individual Placement - Habitat Restoration Tech

Student Conservation Association

Kihei, HI โ€ข On-site

$41K - $56K/yr

Temporary

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
Keฤlia Pond National Wildlife Refuge is seeking a motivated and conservation minded Habitat Technician Placement to support habitat restoration and invasive species management across one of Hawaiสปi's most important wetland ecosystems. This internship offers hands on training and experience in field biology, natural resource management, and public engagement while contributing directly to the protection of endangered species and native habitats. Interns will work closely with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service staff to survey, map, and control invasive species; restore native vegetation; and support ongoing ecological monitoring. This position is ideal for early career professionals interested in wildlife biology, ecology, environmental science, or conservation work in Hawaiสปi.
Hawaii's tropical dry forests are a critically endangered habitat type that has declined by significantly in the last 100 years due to clearing and burning for agriculture and development. While most of the remaining tropical dry forests on Maui are in montane areas, the Kealia Pond restoration site is located in the low lying coastal areas of Maui's Central Valley, adjacent to one of the most important wetlands in the state. This placement is a unique opportunity to be involved in a restoration project from the design and planning stages through implementation that will have long lasting impacts on the refuge and across Maui.
Hosting Organization
Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
Bret Wolfe: bret_wolfe@fws.gov; (808) 763-9641
Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge: Habitat Restoration Tech (1 )
Location
Kihei, HI
Schedule
August 3, 2026 - April 16, 2027
Key Duties and Responsibilities
โ€ข Controlling invasive plants (both mechanical and chemical control methods)
โ€ข Propagating native plants in a nursery
โ€ข Out-planting a follow up care of plants
โ€ข Monitoring outplant success
โ€ข Repairing fences
โ€ข Cleaning and maintaining equipment including tools and vehicles.
โ€ข Conduct field surveys to identify, map, and monitor restoration activities.
Marginal Duties
โ€ข Work alongside refuge staff to support ongoing conservation projects.
โ€ข Weekend or evening shifts may be required to support visitor center hours and special events.
Required Qualifications
โ€ข Strong interest in conservation, ecology, biology, natural resource management, environmental science or related fields.
โ€ข Ability to work in outdoors in hot, humid, and variable weather conditions.
โ€ข Willingness to learn plant identification, field techniques, and safe herbicide handling.
โ€ข Strong communication skills
โ€ข Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
โ€ข Willingness to learn about Hawaiian ecosystems, cultural context, and refuge operations.
Preferred Qualifications
โ€ข Interest in pursuing a career in conservation, resource management, biology or similar fields.
โ€ข Ecological survey and mapping experience a plus
This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.
General Physical Requirements
  • Able to understand, adhere to, and communicate with others regarding hazards, procedures, and safety policies.
  • Able to independently manage known medical conditions with the resources available throughout the position or program.
  • Able to wear all required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hard hats, gloves, N95 or other approved face mask or shield, and appropriate footwear.
  • Able to refrain from behaviors and actions that disrupt the work and safety of others.
  • Able to cooperate with others to complete daily group tasks, responsibilities, and project work under potentially difficult conditions, variable daily routines, and with limited personal time.
  • Able to self-regulate or co-regulate emotions and actions when distressed or uncomfortable, with or without the support of others.
  • Able to self-manage outdoor and environmental exposure (e.g., temperature, wind, sun, etc.) in a variety of weather conditions.
  • Able to maintain adequate nutrition and hydration throughout program time.
  • If using prescription medications, able to self-administer medications by following the prescribed dosage, usage, and timing without supervisor assistance. If prescription medication is administered via injection, able to self-administer the injection.
  • Able to independently carry a backpacking pack weighing approximately 30% of body weight over varied, loose, inclined terrain for up to a maximum of 15 miles per day with adequate breaks.
  • Able to lift a backpacking pack weighing approximately 30% of body weight with minimal assistance from others.

Working Conditions
  • Work schedules and projects may change on short notice or be ambiguous.
  • Work settings require the ability to positively interact with people of varying perspectives.
  • Work settings may be located in natural environments and regionally significant locations that require respect for the land and local peoples.
  • Work environment may be in inclement and severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and flash flooding, gusty and strong winds, foggy or decreased visibility, lightning events, and/or decreased or inclement air quality conditions due to wildfire smoke or smog.
  • Work may take place in warm temperatures and adverse heat conditions which could include temperatures in some regions up to 110ยฐF or hotter.
  • Work settings may involve exposure to natural and environmental hazards, such as poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac; harmful, poisonous, or disease-carrying ticks, mosquitos, insects, snakes, bears, and other wildlife.

Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
Private bedroom in trailer with shared kitchen and living space.
Compensation
Living allowance = $800 week
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
Recommended
Additional Benefits
AmeriCorps: Not Eligible
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.

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