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Conservation Management Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Woodbury County, IA

Conservation Executive Director

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$119K - $144K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... management staff and exercises responsibility for all other department employees • Responsible ... Conservation Board Required Qualifications • Bachelor degree from an accredited college or ...

My County Parks

Executive Director

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

... conservation areas and educational programs Supervises management staff and exercises responsibility for all other department employees Responsible for hiring and discipline of all departmental ...

National Audubon Society

$63K - $85K/yr

Aligned with Audubon's overall conservation goals and strategies and in coordination with the Senior Manager of Everglades Policy, this individual will provide scientific and technical expertise to ...

Audubon

Range Ecologist

Audubon, IA

$57K/yr

Develop Habitat Management Plans for private lands enrolled in conservation programs * Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts. * Collaborate with colleagues across the ...

State of Iowa

Watershed Coordinator - Story Co

Des Moines, IA

$54K - $81K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will serve as a watershed project coordinator, overseeing the management and coordination of local and regional water quality conservation projects. Based in Story Co (Nevada) USDA ...

Audubon

Program Manager, Mississippi River

Audubon, IA · On-site +1

$73K - $82K/yr

S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service, Federal Emergency Management Agency's Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities, Environmental Protection Agency ...

National Audubon Society

$75K - $89K/yr

Experience working with agencies such as the South Florida Water Management District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and Florida Department of ...

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All JobsConservation Management JobsConservation Management Jobs in Iowa

Conservation Management information

See Iowa salary details

$30.1K

$34.7K

$39.4K

How much do conservation management jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation management in Iowa is $34,695.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,400.00 and $35,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is conservation management?

Conservation management refers to the planning and implementation of strategies to protect, preserve, and sustainably use natural resources and ecosystems. This field involves monitoring habitats, restoring degraded environments, and managing wildlife populations to ensure long-term ecological health. Conservation managers work with government agencies, non-profits, and communities to balance human activities with environmental protection. Their goal is to maintain biodiversity, support ecosystem services, and address issues like climate change and habitat loss.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in conservation management?

To thrive in Conservation Management, you need a solid background in environmental science, ecology, or natural resource management, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS software, field survey equipment, and data analysis tools is typically required, along with certifications such as Certified Conservation Professional (CCP). Strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills help you engage stakeholders and manage conservation projects effectively. These competencies are essential for making informed decisions, fostering collaboration, and ensuring the successful preservation of natural resources.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in conservation management, and how can new hires prepare to address them?

Conservation management professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing ecological preservation with the needs of local communities, navigating complex regulatory environments, and securing funding for projects. New hires can prepare by developing strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, staying informed about relevant environmental policies, and gaining practical experience in both fieldwork and project management. Being adaptable and open to interdisciplinary collaboration is also key to effectively addressing the dynamic issues that arise in conservation settings.

What is the difference between Conservation Management vs Wildlife Conservation?

AspectConservation ManagementWildlife Conservation
CredentialsDegree in environmental science, ecology, or related fields; certifications in conservation practicesSimilar credentials; often includes wildlife biology or ecology certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, project planning, habitat restoration, policy developmentFieldwork, research, species monitoring, habitat protection
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, NGOs, parks, conservation organizationsWildlife agencies, NGOs, research institutions

Conservation Management focuses on developing and implementing strategies to preserve ecosystems and habitats, often involving habitat restoration and policy work. Wildlife Conservation specifically emphasizes protecting individual species and their populations through research and direct intervention. While both roles overlap in environmental protection, Conservation Management has a broader scope including habitat-level strategies, whereas Wildlife Conservation concentrates on species-specific efforts.

What do conservation managers do?

Conservation managers oversee efforts to protect and restore natural environments and wildlife. They develop management plans, monitor ecosystems, coordinate with stakeholders, and may use tools like GIS and data analysis to ensure sustainable practices. Strong knowledge of ecology, environmental policies, and fieldwork skills are essential for this role.

What is the best degree to work in conservation management?

A bachelor's degree in environmental science, ecology, biology, forestry, or a related field is typically required for conservation management roles. Advanced positions may require a master's degree or higher, along with skills in data analysis, GIS, and fieldwork. Relevant certifications and experience can also enhance job prospects.

What jobs can I get with a conservation management degree?

A conservation management degree prepares individuals for roles such as conservation officer, environmental planner, wildlife biologist, park ranger, or habitat restoration specialist. These jobs often require fieldwork, data analysis, and knowledge of environmental policies and tools like GIS software.

What are popular job titles related to Conservation Management jobs in Iowa?

For Conservation Management jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Conservation Management jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Conservation Management jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Conservation Management jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Conservation Management job openings:

Conservation Management jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation Management job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,695 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Land & Water Conservationist

IOWA ASSN SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRIC

Spirit Lake, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance

Conservation Districts of Iowa
Land & Water Conservationists
Spirit Lake, Iowa
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Anticipated Start Date: Upon successful background check
The successful applicant would work in one of the following areas:
·       Housed in the Spirit Lake USDA-NRCS office  
 
These positions are funded through an agreement between the Conservation Districts of Iowa and the Iowa Natural Resource Conservation Service. Funding is secured through September of 2027 with the opportunity for extension.

Job Description:
Land & Water Conservationists will work to promote conservation practice adoption on private lands in Iowa by assisting with the delivery of USDA’s conservation programs including the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), and other federal, state, and local private lands conservation initiatives. Your efforts to promote and implement conservation practices will help to ensure that Iowa’s landowners and agricultural producers have the technical and financial assistance necessary to address natural resource concerns on their land. This will create positive environmental impacts to water quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat.
As a Conservation Districts of Iowa (CDI) employee, you would work in partnership with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). You would serve as a member of the NRCS Resource Team, receiving training and daily direction from the NRCS Resource Team Lead and District Conservationists for the effective delivery of conservation programs. You would also work closely with the DNR Private Lands Biologist to receive training on wildlife habitat assessment, development, and management for the delivery of wildlife-oriented initiatives. 
We expect the successful candidate to develop into an integral part of the effective delivery of conservation programs. This will involve coordinating with landowners and the resource team to promote conservation practice adoption to landowners and to develop conservation program applications, and create long-term conservation plans. Additionally, the successful candidate will be responsible for providing technical assistance and consultation to landowners for the successful implementation of these practices. At the end of the first year, success would mean that you have developed the skills and relationships necessary to assist landowners and your team members to promote and implement conservation practices using various conservation programs across the landscape. 
 

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agencies. 
  • Ability to work independently with little supervision and with diverse clientele.
  • Knowledge of water conservation and wildlife ecology, wetland and grassland management including the ability to utilize various habitat management tools in the development of management plans. 
  • Knowledge of water conservation and wildlife programs provided by federal (i.e. Farm Bill, US Fish and Wildlife Service), state, & local entities. In addition, knowledge of how these programs are implemented in an agricultural landscape is desired.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication.
  • Proficiency with computer software programs such as Microsoft Office, ArcGIS or USDA Conservation Desktop.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Valid driver’s license required.
  • Some overnight and evening work required.
  • Able to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications: 
Bachelor of Science Degree in Conservation Ecology or closely related natural resources field and 1-year related field experience in conservation related positions.

Benefits to the Applicant:

  • Professional Development: Gain valuable experience and skills in conservation program delivery while working alongside experienced professionals in the field.
  • Impactful Work: Contribute to meaningful conservation efforts that benefit local ecosystems and wildlife, and make a tangible difference in environmental protection.
  • Networking Opportunities: Build strong professional relationships with landowners and conservation organizations, expanding your network within the industry.
  • Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and expertise through hands-on experience and professional development opportunities. Previous staff members have successfully leveraged their experience to secure permanent positions within the conservation field, demonstrating the strong potential for career advancement as a result of this experience.
  • Compensation and Benefits:
  • Hourly Rate: $18.47/hour
  • Health Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance coverage
  • Retirement Package: Retirement savings plan
  • Paid Time Off: Paid holidays and paid leave
  • Opportunities for Raises: Potential for salary increases based on performance
Please note that CDI reserves the right to amend or terminate any benefit plans. Participation in these benefits does not constitute a contract or guarantee of future employment.
To Apply: Please include your cover letter indicating which position(s) you are applying for, your resume, and three professional references as one PDF file. Send to Dien Judge at dien@cdiowa.org. CDI is an equal opportunity employer.