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Conservation Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$136K - $166K/yr

Senior Manager, Ocean Policy Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places ...

Executive Writer Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through ... Reporting to the Managing Director of Storytelling, you will be responsible for high-quality ...

Integrated Fundraising Coordinator Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of ... The Coordinator manages multiple donor-facing communication channels and must be comfortable ...

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Executive Assistant and Finance Coordinator Conservation International protects nature for the ... Support budget management, including the annual budget process, monthly budget updates, and liaise ...

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Conservation Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$19.9K

$55.2K

$94.8K

How much do conservation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation manager in Virginia is $55,244.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,387.00 and $66,132.00 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Conservation jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Conservation Manager jobs in Virginia? For Conservation Manager jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Conservation Manager jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Conservation Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Conservation Manager job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,244 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Community Conservation Coordinator

Community Conservation Coordinator

James River Association

Richmond, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

James River Association
Community Conservation Coordinator

Location: Richmond, VA
Hybrid Position: Approximately 80% on-site and 20% telework
Experience: Entry Level
Number of Openings: 1
Job Status: Part time, non exempt
Position Term: September 1, 2026 through May 31, 2027
Hourly Wage: $20.00 per hour, maximum of 30 hours per week
Reports to: Community Conservation Manager

The James River Association, JRA, is a nonprofit organization on a mission to protect the James River and connect people to it. JRA is excited to announce an opening for a Community Conservation Coordinator. In this role, you will support community based conservation and stewardship programs across the James River watershed, with a primary focus on JRA’s River Hero Homes program and the Greening Richmond Public Libraries initiative.

JRA’s Community Conservation team empowers residents to implement river friendly practices at home and works with communities to better manage stormwater runoff through the use of gray and green infrastructure. This community driven approach to conservation and stewardship supports residents, strengthens neighborhoods, and advances cleanup plans for the James River to meet Chesapeake Bay and local water quality goals.

We’re looking for someone with strong communication and organizational skills, an interest in community engagement and environmental stewardship, and a desire to help connect people to actions that protect the James River.

Responsibilities

River Hero Homes

• Plan, schedule, and lead educational River Hero Homes workshops and webinars in collaboration with JRA’s Director of Community Conservation, Community Conservation Manager, communications team, and regional staff members
• Create educational content for JRA’s website, newsletters, and social media accounts in collaboration with JRA’s Community Conservation and communications teams
• Facilitate annual and monthly River Hero Homes membership mailings
• Track key performance indicators and support evaluation of River Hero Homes program impact

Greening Richmond Public Libraries

• Participate in regularly scheduled Greening Richmond Public Libraries team meetings
• Support community engagement activities, including in person and virtual meetings
• Plan, schedule, and lead educational programs at Richmond Public Library branches
• Support planning and implementation of community planting events
• Support Green Infrastructure Stewards volunteer events
• Track key performance indicators and support evaluation of the Greening Richmond Public Libraries initiative

Professional Growth

  • Embed with other JRA programs to develop a broader understanding of the organization and its work across the watershed
  • Successfully complete an American Red Cross First Aid, CPR, and AED course
  • Successfully complete Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional (CBLP) Level 1 Certification

Qualifications

• Associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience
• Interest in conservation, community engagement, environmental education, or related fields
• Experience supporting or leading educational programs, community events, or volunteer activities
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google products
• Knowledge of environmental issues facing the James River and its communities

Requirements

• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• Ability to work a part time schedule, up to 30 hours per week, during the position term
• Ability to work occasional evenings or weekends for community meetings, programs, or volunteer events
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with staff, partners, volunteers, and community members
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a timely and organized manner
• Ability to lift and carry tools, trees, plants, and other project materials, up to 50lbs
• Ability to drive JRA fleet vehicles and tow trailers, or willingness to be trained

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience with volunteer recruitment, coordination, or stewardship events
• Experience leading workshops, webinars, or public education programs
• Experience with community engagement or neighborhood based conservation work
• Familiarity with stormwater management, green infrastructure, trees, native plants, or river friendly practices
• Comfort working with a wide range of people, partners, and community groups
• Interest in the James River, watershed conservation, and community based environmental work

Competitive Salary & Benefits Package
This is a part time, non exempt position based in Richmond, Virginia. The hourly wage for this position is $20.00 per hour, with a maximum of 30 hours per week.

Part time employees are not eligible for JRA’s full time employee benefits package, but may be eligible for third party benefits through Corestream and Paychex. This position also offers professional development and growth opportunities, hands on experience in community conservation, and the opportunity to support meaningful stewardship work across the James River watershed.

APPLY HERE by submitting your resume and cover letter with this link.

 

Why Work for the James River Association? 

We are OPTIMISTS.

We believe through individual and collective action, the James River can be

preserved and improved, enriching all communities in the watershed.

We are CATALYSTS.

We are proactive change-makers, not bystanders. We take initiative, bring creativity

and passion, and enlist the broader community to drive positive change for the

James River.

CREDIBILITY is our currency.

Our success depends on the trust we build. We operate with integrity and can be

relied on as a true, steady, dependable resource grounded in science.

COMMUNITY drives everything we do.

We believe in the power of community to achieve common goals, honoring a full

range of voices in the process. Our efforts consider the varied needs and interests of

our watershed communities.

 

We are proud to be an EEO employer. We maintain a drug-free workplace. At JRA, we believe in community, conservation, and driving change. We encourage applications from all backgrounds—if you're excited about working with us, we want to hear from you!


 

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