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Conservation Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

City Of Gary

Land Quality Manager

Gary, IN · On-site

$45K - $48K/yr

Land Quality Manager Responsible for the protection and conservation of land and water quality resources in accordance with solid waste, brownfields, and groundwater policies and program at the local ...

Cedaorg

WX - Director of Field Operations

South Holland, IL · On-site

$110.20 - $129.70/hr

... conservation services that create healthier, more energy-efficient homes and strengthen communities across Illinois. What We're Looking For: Required: Bachelor's degree in construction management ...

Openlands

Vice President of External Affairs

Chicago, IL · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Build, manage, and mentor high-performing Development and Communications teams. Partner with the Vice Presidents of Policy and Land Conservation and Land Management to ensure fundraising and ...

Equipment Service Plus LLC

Shop Manager

Joliet, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Encourage a culture of sustainability, conservation, and cost awareness across all teams. * Budget ... Manage onsite contractors. * Perform other duties as assigned by management. Requirements * Strong ...

Corporate Coverage Company

Shop Manager

Joliet, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Encourage a culture of sustainability, conservation, and cost awareness across all teams. * Budget ... Manage onsite contractors. * Perform other duties as assigned by management. Requirements: * Strong ...

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All JobsConservation JobsConservation Manager JobsConservation Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Conservation Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$21K

$58.3K

$100.1K

How much do conservation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation manager in Chicago, IL is $58,305.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,570.00 and $69,796.00 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Conservation jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Conservation Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Conservation Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Conservation Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Conservation Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Conservation Manager job openings:

Conservation Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,305 per year, or $28 per hour.

Sr. Project/Energy Manager (FT), CFRE34103FOM

College of DuPage

Glen Ellyn, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

College Of DuPage rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 622 rated colleges and universities

Job description


Sr. Project/Energy Manager (FT), CFRE34103FOM
Sr. Project/Energy Manager (FT), CFRE34103FOM
The College of DuPage is a comprehensive community college located 27 miles west of downtown Chicago, vitally connected to our local area for over 50 years. We prepare students for a lifelong passion for learning on our 273-acre campus which is home to nine associate degrees and a wide variety of professional and technical certificates. Many of these credentials prepare students to seamlessly articulate into the baccalaureate programs of our higher education partner institutions.
College of DuPage is committed to student success and values an inclusive and welcoming community environment. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workforce. Our connection to the larger metropolitan area is essential to our success and provides a wealth of diverse cultural and recreational opportunities.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
The Sr. Project/Energy Manager is responsible for managing assigned construction, renovation, HVAC, infrastructure, and energy-related projects for the College. This position serves as a primary technical resource for campus energy management initiatives, supporting the analysis of utility usage, implementation of energy conservation measures, and optimization of facility systems. The role manages projects from planning through completion and occupancy and works collaboratively with Facilities staff, Purchasing, consultants, contractors, and campus stakeholders to ensure effective project delivery, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. This position focuses on technical leadership, project execution, and energy systems optimization in support of departmental goals.
  • Support campus energy management initiatives in alignment with College operational goals.
  • Coordinate and support RFQs, bids, A/E selection, project development, design and construction activities for assigned projects, including drawing/specification review, contractor coordination, permitting, budget tracking, schedule monitoring, and compliance with College design standards.
  • Provide technical guidance and coordination support to Facilities staff, Purchasing, consultants, and contractors throughout project phases.
  • Coordinate final occupancy and move-in activities, O&M training and turnover, and follow through with proper project closeout procedures.
  • Properly document all project activities and work progress, and maintain project records per established departmental procedures.
  • Manage multiple construction projects of varying size and complexity simultaneously.
  • Promote a comfortable indoor climate for learning and working.
  • Work with Facilities and Engineering staff to support occupant comfort while improving energy efficiency.
  • Provide technical recommendations regarding energy conservation initiatives, operational efficiencies, utility usage reduction, and sustainability efforts.
  • Support development of long-range energy and operational improvement initiatives.
  • Assist the Engineering department in evaluating HVAC and energy related equipment maintenance.
  • Develop training options and/or improvement plans to ensure optimal operations in the area of HVAC and energy equipment maintenance.
  • Pursue an aggressive program to reduce College costs for energy.
  • Assume responsibility for compiling, maintaining and filing all energy reports, billings and other documents required.
  • Utilize consultants when necessary to identify energy conservation measures.
  • Compile utility budgets and energy conservation measure cost estimates based upon documented program needs.
  • Apply grants and pursue outside funding sources for equipment retrofits.
  • Monitor all facilities design and construction activities as related to energy management.
  • Review and recommend maintenance supply and equipment purchases to ensure energy efficient replacements are being specified.
  • Assist with review of utility agreements, utility rate structures, and energy purchasing options and make recommendations regarding energy fuel selection.
  • Implement the policies established by federal and state law as well as local board policy in the area of energy conservation.
  • Prepare and maintain reports related to energy usage, utility performance, and program effectiveness.
  • Articulate the College's mission and goals in the area of energy management to the community and solicit its support in realizing the mission.
  • Provide support to the CMMS data entry, tracking, and reporting related to facilities and energy systems.
  • Provide input on capital improvement needs related to assigned projects and energy systems.
  • Serve as project manager for assigned energy, HVAC

    • Qualifications:
    • Education
      • Bachelor's degree in engineering, engineering management, construction management, or a closely related field from an accredited college or university required.
      • Professional Energy Manager Certification (CEM) preferred.
    • Experience
      • Three to five (3-5) years experience in construction and/or construction project management required.
      • Extensive knowledge of general construction (new construction and renovation projects), knowledge of construction law, building codes and life safety codes, accessibility codes, and other related legal and safety requirements required.
      • Knowledge of energy management program development required.
      • Require an understanding of the electrical utility rate structure and how it is applied to calculate utility bills required.
      • Ability to coordinate personnel and support budget management activities required.
      • Strong communication and organizational skills required.
      • Proficiency in written and spoken English required.

    Working Conditions:
  • Personal computer including knowledge of Microsoft Office software, printers, calculators and energy management software.
  • Knowledge of HVAC equipment and lighting control systems.
  • Regularly required to stand and walk.
  • Occasionally required to climb and stoop.
  • Frequently required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to drive to off-campus locations.
  • Periodic exposure to conditions in mechanical/boiler rooms, ceilings, roofs and under floor areas.
  • Occasional irregular hours.
  • This position requires a background check and drug screen.

    • Hiring Range:
    12 Salary/Starting salary beginning at $75,131 based on education and experience.
    Competitive starting pay is dependent on education and experience. College of DuPage also offers a generous benefits plan which includes paid time off, tuition discounts for employees and dependents, medical, dental, vision effective the first day of employment, and retirement benefits in a collaborative and friendly environment.
    College of DuPage is an equal opportunity employer. The College of DuPage is committed to recruiting and retaining high performing talent to our institution, continuing our tradition of excellence. We encourage all people across the broad spectrum of those communities we serve to explore and apply for positions at COD for which they believe they are qualified.
    College of DuPage does not discriminate against individuals in employment opportunities, programs and/or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, ancestry, veterans' status, marital status, disability, military status, unfavorable discharge from military service, or on any other basis protected by law.
    To apply, visit https://cod.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/4/home/requisition/3090?c=cod
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