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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 ...

$54K - $60K/yr

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

Senior Coordinator, Fisheries Technology Conservation International protects nature for the benefit ... Manage travel logistics and planning for Wi-Fi installation and training trips, including tracking ...

Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy ... Management Help configure, deploy, and maintain endpoints using the organization's MDM platform ...

Director, IT Infrastructure Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity ... The role leads a globally distributed team and key vendors/managed service providers, building ...

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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 31, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,244 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Fall & Winter Conservation Crew Member

Conservation Legacy

Mount Crawford, VA • On-site

$2.8K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description
Position Title: Fall & Winter Conservation Crew Member
Location: Based out of Harrisonburg, VA
Compensation: $600 per week ($500 living stipend + $100 additional benefit)
Terms of Service
Start Date: September 7th, 2026
End Date: January 26th, 2027
AmeriCorps Education Award: $2,817.14 upon successful completion of service term
Purpose
Appalachian Conservation Corps works to connect young people to critical conservation service work across Appalachia and neighboring communities in Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, Maryland, DC, and Pennsylvania. As an AmeriCorps program, we partner with public land managers to identify, plan, and complete projects that improve public access, habitat quality, and economic development.
Appalachian Conservation Corps is a program of Conservation Legacy, a nationwide network of conservation service organizations envisioning a world with healthy lands, air, and water, thriving people, and resilient communities. We aim to engage future leaders who protect, restore, and enhance our public lands through community-based service. We welcome national applicants but also emphasize the engagement of local individuals who represent the communities in which they serve.
Project Description
Crews will meet at the Appalachian Conservation Corps office in Harrisonburg on Monday mornings, travel in a crew vehicle to their project site, and remain in the field for 9 days at a time, followed by 5 days off. Over the course of five months, projects take place across the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests in Virginia to aid the USFS in restoration and recovery projects needed after Hurricane Helene.
During their time in the field, crews perform heavy manual labor on environmental conservation projects in all types of weather conditions for 10 hours each day. These hands-on projects include visitor access improvements, trail construction and maintenance, habitat restoration, invasive species removal, re-vegetation, and much more. Most projects require hiking out to remote sites for the day with tools, equipment, and day pack.
This crew will be trained in and expected to safely and occasionally use chainsaws and other trail tools to complete a variety of conservation projects in partnership with public land managers. The crew provides a supportive learning environment where members work with, learn from, and grow with one another while gaining skills and certifications to propel them into a career in environmental stewardship.
Crews consist of four crew members and two crew leaders who provide project expertise, mentorship, training, and support for the success of all participants. While prior experience with the outdoors or outdoor work can be helpful, it is not a necessity for this position. We ask that crew members embrace learning opportunities, face challenges, and build community with their crew.
Schedule and Crew Life
Appalachian Conservation Corps is an independent, non-residential program. Crews are responsible for their own housing, food, and transportation when they are not in the field. While participants are asked to supply as much of their personal equipment as possible, loaner gear will be available if needed. A gear list is provided upon acceptance into the program.
Food is provided while in the field. Crews work together to plan meals and complete necessary chores (cooking, washing dishes, etc.). Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated if known ahead of time. We also provide group camping equipment, tools, protective gear, uniform shirts, and transportation between Appalachian Conservation Corps offices and project sites.
Members may be required to participate in service projects or events as part of their service terms. Prior to their start date, selected participants are required to complete an enrollment process that includes completing e-forms, uploading IDs, orientation on AmeriCorps prohibited activities, and beginning their background check process. This crew will have mandatory, unpaid leave from December 19th until January 4th for end-of-year holidays.
Appalachian Conservation Corps supports a culture of feedback and growth. Participants will set goals at the beginning of the season and review their performance in the middle and at the end of their season. Participants will also be asked to evaluate the program and their experience. Overall performance will be measured by assignment completion, hours served, and other criteria set at the start of the service term.
Benefits
  • $600 per week ($500 living stipend + $100 additional benefit)
  • $2,817.14 Segal AmeriCorps Education Award upon successful completion of a 675-hour service term.
  • AmeriCorps members may be eligible for student loan forbearance.
  • Member Assistance Program - 3 free sessions of support with a counseling or work-life balance specialist.
  • Professional development opportunities (mentorship, resume support, etc.) and exposure to natural resource career paths.

Qualifications
  • Be between the ages of 18 and 30 (exception for veterans up to age 35).
  • Have US citizenship or legal permanent residency status.
  • Have a high school diploma or GED.
  • Agrees to provide information to establish eligibility and to complete a National Service Criminal History Check.
  • Must have first aid and CPR certification or be willing to earn before the start date.
  • No previous experience is required, but general comfort and previous exposure to working outdoors and/or camping is helpful.

Our Commitment
Conservation Legacy is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals and will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodation to perform essential functions. Some positions may require periodic overnight travel, non-traditional hours, ability to move across varied terrain, use program-specific tools and a range of technology on an infrequent or frequent basis. Exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. The ability to safely drive an organizational vehicle may also be required for some positions. If you need assistance and/or reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruitment process, please send a request to the hiring manager.
Any questions can be addressed to:
Dannise Brown
dbrown@conservationlegacy.org
Conservation Legacy is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.