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Conservation Manager Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Renville County

SWCD Resource Conservationist

Olivia, MN · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

Project Management and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) skills * Understanding of natural resources, conservation, agriculture, hydrology, local government and related issues. * Develop projects ...

Renville County

SWCD Resource Conservationist

Olivia, MN · On-site

$32.16 - $43.78/hr

Project Management and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) skills * Understanding of natural resources, conservation, agriculture, hydrology, local government and related issues. * Develop projects ...

MNL

Field Operations Manager

Otsego, MN · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Our services include native seed and plant production, shoreline and wetland restoration, prescribed burns, conservation grazing, vegetation management, and ecological consulting. We also support ...

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All JobsConservation JobsConservation Manager JobsConservation Manager Jobs in Minnesota

Conservation Manager information

See Minnesota salary details

$19.9K

$55.2K

$94.7K

How much do conservation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation manager in Minnesota is $55,192.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,350.00 and $66,070.00 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 Minnesota?

The most popular types of Conservation jobs in Minnesota are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Conservation Manager jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Conservation Manager job openings:

Conservation Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation Manager job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,192 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Agronomy & Conservation Specialist

Pheasants Forever

Austin, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Application Deadline:  September 15, 2026
Anticipated Start Date: October/November 2026
Description: In partnership with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and Pheasants Forever we are seeking a candidate who is motivated to build working relationships with farmers, associated agriculture advisors & consultants, and conservation partners.  Working in southeast Minnesota to prepare farm management plans that integrate conservation, agriculture, technology, and economics.  A goal of these farm management plans is to showcase alternative management practices that increase farm profitability and conservation opportunity.  Examples of alternative management practices that have been used successfully in Minnesota include cover crops, diverse crop rotation, hay plantings, variable rate inputs, prairie and shrub plantings, and wetland restoration.
In this agronomist type position, you will be responsible for one-on-one farm site visits, identifying and evaluating marginally productive cropland using agriculture technology, making maps and plans to improve areas on the farm, identifying & presenting grants and cost share opportunities, and monitoring project success.  Organizing and hosting workshops, field days, and other outreach efforts for public and professional audiences will further support farmer recruitment and is highly recommended.  Building and maintaining professional relationships within the agriculture community is paramount. 
You will be a Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever employee based out of a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Service Center with regular travel within a ten-county coverage area. Overnight travel will be required.
*Once the candidate is trained and working independently, telework is allowable up to fifty percent of the time or as negotiated between candidate and manager.  During the training period, the candidate will need to report to their USDA office every day. * 
Essential Job Duties:
  • Understand and relay how the use of economic information and precision data can be used to develop profitable conservation solutions on working lands.
  • Lead in the recruitment of farmers interested in conservation solutions.
  • Work cooperatively with Farm Bill Biologists to facilitate voluntary program identification, enrollment, and implementation.
  • Possess a working knowledge of data collection, management and software platforms to conduct and interpret analyses of precision data and economic inputs to calculate Return on Investment (ROI) and profitability at a sub-field level.
  • Increase coordination and efficiency in implementing voluntary conservation programs by fostering trust and credibility among farmers and the broader agriculture industry.
  • Create and deliver education and outreach activities and events to promote voluntary conservation opportunities with agricultural producers and trusted advisor audiences.
  • Collaborate with local USDA office to promote and implement Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) and Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) programs.  Write conservations plans and provide technical assistance to help landowners implement these voluntary programs.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Initiative to make initial contacts, cold calls and develop new relationships using various methods.
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently without direct supervision with diverse clientele.
  • Customer relations and interpersonal skills, ability to communicate challenges and success with team members, supervisor, and partners.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of modern farm equipment and techniques, technology, agronomic and conservation practices common to the region.
  • Commitment to maintain high standards and address issues in a timely, professional manner.
  • Experience with ArcGIS with the ability to import and export data, create, and edit shapefiles to create professional looking maps is preferred.
  • Valid driver’s license required; Use of personal vehicle required (mileage reimbursement provided);
  • The ability to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.
Education and Experience Guideline: Applicants for this position should possess a bachelor’s degree in Precision Agriculture, Agronomy, Ag Systems Technology, Ag Business, Natural Resources or Wildlife Management, or other related field.  Candidates with an associate degree and two or more years of relevant experience will be considered.  Candidates without a bachelor’s or associate degree should have five-plus years of relevant experience in agriculture.
Starting Salary: $49,500 to $65,500 Commensurate with experience.  New graduates will be at the low end of this scale, while candidates with experience post college are eligible for the upper end of this scale.  This role has annual performance-based raises and benefits include:
  • Health, vision, dental and more insurance coverage plans are available.
  • 401(k) Retirement plan with an employer match of up to 5%.
  • Student Loan Assistance program of up to $200/month for eligible employees.
  • Paid Time Off accrued at 15 days (120 hours) per year for new employees (increasing after 3 years).
  • Bereavement/Family/Sick Leave of 6 days (48 hours) per year.
  • 13 Paid holidays.
  • see our benefits summary at www.pheasantsforever.org/about-us/careers
To Apply: Please combine your cover letter, resume and three references into a single Word document or PDF file before uploading as part of your application on our recruitment website at www.pheasantsforever.org/about-us/careers.
 Contact: Josh Pommier, PF/QF Minnesota Private lands Manager, at 320-292-5860 or jpommier@pheasantsforever.org.
 
Pheasants Forever, Inc and Quail Forever is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), national origin or ancestry, age, disability status, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including but not limited to selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.

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