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Conservation Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

My County Parks

Director

Algona, IA · On-site

$70 - $110/hr

The Director performs a wide variety of duties including overseeing the operation of conservation practices and management on county areas, and supervising staff. The Director also serves as the ...

Audubon

Program Manager, Mississippi River

Audubon, IA · On-site +1

$73K - $82K/yr

About Audubon The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with ... The successful candidate will have deep experience in project development and management ...

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 · On-site

$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 ...

Audubon

Operations Manager

Audubon, IA

$64K - $68K/yr

About Audubon The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with ... Reporting to the Vice President, Great Plains, The Operations Manager will provide administrative ...

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Conservation Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$18.7K

$51.7K

$88.7K

How much do conservation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation manager in Iowa is $51,687.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,851.00 and $61,874.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Conservation Manager do?

A Conservation Manager is responsible for protecting and managing natural habitats, wildlife, and resources. They develop and implement conservation plans, oversee restoration projects, and work with government agencies, NGOs, and local communities to ensure sustainable use of natural areas. Their role often involves monitoring wildlife populations, managing budgets, and educating the public about conservation efforts. Conservation Managers play a key role in preserving biodiversity and addressing environmental challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Conservation Manager?

To thrive as a Conservation Manager, you need a solid background in environmental science, ecology, or natural resource management, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS software, project management tools, and environmental regulations is often required, along with certifications like Certified Conservation Professional (CCP) being advantageous. Strong leadership, negotiation, and communication skills are essential for coordinating teams, engaging stakeholders, and securing project funding. These skills and qualifications are critical for successfully implementing conservation initiatives and ensuring the sustainable management of natural resources.

What are some common challenges Conservation Managers face when balancing environmental goals with stakeholder interests?

Conservation Managers often navigate complex situations where ecological objectives must be balanced with the needs of local communities, government agencies, and private landowners. Negotiating these interests requires strong communication and conflict-resolution skills, as well as the ability to develop practical, science-based management plans that consider economic and social factors. Building relationships and fostering collaboration among diverse groups is a key part of the role, and successfully managing these dynamics is crucial to achieving long-term conservation outcomes.

What is the difference between Conservation Manager vs Environmental Specialist?

AspectConservation ManagerEnvironmental Specialist
CredentialsDegree in environmental science, ecology, or related field; certifications like Certified Conservation ProfessionalSimilar degrees; certifications such as Certified Environmental Professional
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, project management, collaboration with agencies and communitiesResearch, analysis, reporting, often in office or lab settings
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, conservation organizationsGovernment agencies, consulting firms, private sector

While both roles focus on environmental issues, Conservation Managers primarily oversee conservation projects and manage teams to protect natural resources. Environmental Specialists often conduct research, analyze data, and develop environmental policies. The roles complement each other but differ in scope and daily activities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Conservation jobs in Iowa are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Conservation Manager jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Conservation Manager job openings:

Conservation Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,687 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Land & Water Conservationist

IOWA ASSN SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRIC

Spirit Lake, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 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.