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Conservation Manager Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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Conservation Manager information

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$20.4K

$56.7K

$97.2K

How much do conservation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation manager in Oregon is $56,657.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,395.00 and $67,823.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Conservation Manager, and why are they important?

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 is the highest paying job in conservation?

The highest paying roles in conservation are often senior executive positions such as Director of Conservation or Chief Conservation Officer, which can earn six-figure salaries. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills in managing large projects or organizations.

How much do conservation managers make?

Conservation managers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the organization. Higher salaries are common for those with advanced certifications or in senior roles overseeing large projects or teams.

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 jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

High-level executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions often earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in large corporations. Senior professionals in specialized fields like investment banking, law, or technology executive roles can also reach this compensation level, often supplemented by bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing.

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 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 role of a conservation manager?

A conservation manager oversees efforts to protect and restore natural environments, managing projects that focus on wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems. They develop conservation plans, coordinate with stakeholders, and often use tools like GIS and environmental assessments to ensure sustainable practices.
What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation jobs in Oregon? The most popular types of Conservation jobs in Oregon are:
What are popular job titles related to Conservation Manager jobs in Oregon? For Conservation Manager jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Conservation Manager jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Conservation Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Conservation Manager job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,657 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
Natural Resource Specialist (Resource Conservationist)

Natural Resource Specialist (Resource Conservationist)

Natural Resources Conservation Service

Portland, OR • On-site, Remote

$96K - $125K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Natural Resources Conservation Service rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

154th of 693 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Summary
This position is located in the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), State Office.
This position is located on the staff of the Assistant State Conservationist (Programs). The incumbent is responsible for providing support for all Conservation Programs in the state and is the Program Manager for one or more Financial Assistance Programs.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Functions as the primary Program Manager for NRCS Financial Assistance Programs, coordinating program funding statewide and providing input on budget discussions related to program utilization and opportunities.
  • Coordinates support to field offices for efficient program delivery, including tracking technical assistance fund use and obligations.
  • Applies knowledge of NRCS conservation planning principles and resource concerns to ensure consistent implementation of Financial Assistance Programs, ensuring compliance with legislation, USDA, and NRCS requirements.
  • Interprets national guidance on Conservation Programs and develops conservation program implementation strategies
  • Develops manual supplements, bulletins, and guidance documents consistent with national guidance

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • You must be a US Citizen or US National.
  • Males born after 12/31/1959 must be Selective Service registered or exempt.
  • Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check. If selected, you may be sent instructions on obtaining fingerprints. Please note we are unable to reimburse for any fees incurred.
  • Probationary and Trial Period - Successful completion of a 1-year probationary period or 2-year trial period unless previous federal service is creditable. Refer to Next Steps for more information.
  • Direct Deposit: Per Public Law 104-134 all Federal employees are required to have federal payments made by direct deposit to their financial institution.
  • Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov.
  • The incumbent serves as an incidental motor vehicle operator on public and private roads during daylight and after dark if needed to perform the duties of the position, must possess and maintain a valid state motor vehicle operator's license

Qualifications
In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. If education is required or being used to qualify, you must submit a copy of your transcripts.
Basic Education Requirement: Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position;
OR
Combination of Education and Experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
In addition to meeting one of the Basic Requirements listed above, applicants must meet the following Minimum Qualifications Requirement in order to be considered:
Specialized Experience for the GS-12: To qualify for the GS-12 level, you must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level or higher in Federal service, or comparable experience not gained through Federal service. Examples of specialized experience include:
  • Devising and implementing short- and long-term conservation plans, integrating resource development projects, simple to complex conservation strategies and accompanying justifications;
  • Assisting with the management of NRCS Financial Assistance programs;
  • Independently functioning as a Program Manager, or providing input to the Program Manager with the management of agency financial resources to formulate conservation priorities and multi-year objectives.

Time-in-Grade Requirement: If you are a current federal employee in the General Schedule (GS) pay plan and applying for a promotion opportunity, you must meet time-in-grade (TIG) requirements of 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the position being filled. You must meet this requirement by the closing date of this announcement.
Education
Note: There is no education substitution for the GS-12 level.
Additional information
Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) or Reemployment Priority List (RPL): Visit the OPM website for information on how to apply as a CTAP, RPL, or ICTAP eligible. To exercise selection priority for this vacancy, CTAP/RPL candidates must meet the basic eligibility requirements and all selective factors. CTAP candidates must be rated and determined to be well qualified (or above) based on an evaluation of the competencies listed in the How You Will Be Evaluated section. When assessed through a score-based category rating method, CTAP applicants must receive a rating of at least 85 out of a possible 100.
Farm Service Agency (FSA) County Employees: Permanent County employees without prior Federal tenure who are selected for a Civil Service position under Public Law 105-277 will be given a career-conditional appointment and must serve a 1-year probationary period.
Physical Demands: The work requires physical exertion sufficient to be able to walk across farmland, rangeland, or forested terrain for periods of several hours' duration, carrying loads of less than 20 pounds. Office work is primarily sedentary.
Work Environment: Work environment is variable. In the office, the work is primarily performed in a well lighted, climate-controlled office setting. In the field, the environment may include extreme cold, hot sun, rain and snow, exposure to biting insects, poisonous plants, and wildlife; special protective measures may be required.
Motor Vehicles: The incumbent serves as an incidental motor vehicle operator on public and private roads during daylight and after dark if needed to perform the duties of the position. A valid state operator's license is required.
Telework: This position is eligible for telework as determined by the agency policy.
Incentives: Recruitment and/or relocation incentives may be authorized.
Bargaining Unit: This is a non-bargaining unit position.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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