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Conservation Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$46K - $66K/yr

Employee will also develop and present economic scenarios for conservation, habitat, working lands and other best management practices on acres that will result in increased profitability. The ...

$17.50 - $19/hr

Conservation Crew Leader Location: This position is based out of Sacramento, Ridgecrest, or ... Senior Project Manager Schedule/Hours: Full-time. Flexible Schedule with varying shifts; 40 hours ...

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Conservation Manager information

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$20.5K

$56.8K

$97.5K

How much do conservation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation manager in the United States is $56,804.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $68,000.00 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 teams and projects.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

A Conservation Manager typically requires relevant experience and sometimes certifications rather than a degree, but high-paying roles in conservation are rare without formal education. Most jobs paying $10,000 a month often require specialized skills, extensive experience, or entrepreneurial efforts rather than entry-level positions. Alternative high-income opportunities without a degree include sales, real estate, or skilled trades, but these are generally outside the conservation field.

What does a conservation manager do?

A conservation manager oversees efforts to protect and restore natural environments and wildlife. They develop and implement conservation plans, monitor ecological health, coordinate with stakeholders, and may use tools like GIS and data analysis. The role often requires knowledge of environmental policies and relevant certifications.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior executives, specialized surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can earn $500,000 or more annually. Conservation managers typically do not reach this salary level unless they hold executive positions or have significant experience and responsibilities in large organizations. Most conservation roles offer salaries below this threshold, but top executives or consultants in environmental sectors may approach or exceed it.

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.
More about Conservation Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Conservation Manager jobs? Cities with the most Conservation Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation jobs? The most popular types of Conservation jobs are:
What states have the most Conservation Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Conservation Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Conservation Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,804 per year, or $27.3 per hour.
Precision Ag & Conservation Specialist

Precision Ag & Conservation Specialist

Pheasants Forever

On-site

$46K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Illinois Precision Ag & Conservation Specialist
Location: Central Illinois (preferred candidate must live within service territory)
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Anticipated Start Date: Summer 2026
Overview: Pheasants Forever seeks a highly motivated team-oriented individual looking to join a
dynamic Team, with a passion for wildlife, conservation, agriculture, and technology that has an interest in working with farmers to find conservation solutions. The employee will be a key member of the Precision Ag & Conservation Solutions Team within Pheasants Forever. This position offers a unique opportunity to modernize conservation delivery by work directly with farmers, private landowners, consultants, retail ag and partners to analyze operations based on economic performance and look at alternative practices that increase conservation adoption, habitat and in-field profitability The employee will process and analyze relevant on-farm data to provide profitability scenarios and Return on Investment (ROI) planning to farmers using a host of software platforms. Employee will also develop and present economic scenarios for conservation, habitat, working lands and other best management practices on acres that will result in increased profitability. The employee will be based out of a home office with regular travel within the project area and on-farm visits. Some overnight travel is required for trainings and Team meetings. The Central Precision Ag Position will provide assistances to landowners and partners in the following Illinois counties: Putnam, Marshall, Peoria, Woodford, Fulton, Mason, Tazewell, Schuyler, Brown, Cass, Menard, Logan, Scott, Morgan, Sangamon, Christian, Macon.
Job Duties:
  • Lead in the identification and engagement of interested farmers.
  • Collaborate with farmers to provide economic analyses of best management practices that increase producer profitability and create habitat.
  • Make sound and ethical recommendations in order to maximize profitability for producers while providing water, soil and wildlife benefits.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with agricultural partners consistent with their needs/wants. Facilitate a high-level of communication between the farmer (including trusted advisors) and partners.
  • Focus on understanding producer needs and provide feedback on ways to improve performance. Serves as the liaison between farmers requesting alternative options and appropriate IL biologist, USDA, FWS or other partner personnel.
  • Complete customer tracking, data entry and project reports in an accurate and timely manner.
  • Organize and host workshops, field days and conduct other outreach efforts.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Strong customer relations and interpersonal skills, ability to communicate effectively, and exceptional attention to detail.
  • Ability to make initial contacts, cold calls and develop new relationships. Self-motivated and able to work independently without direct supervision.
  • Knowledge or the ability to understand modern farm equipment, technology and practices. Commitment to maintain standards and address issues in a timely, professional manner.
  • Knowledge of conservation program offerings, including USDA Farm Bill Programs, as well as state and local programs, is preferred.
  • Must have experience with ArcGIS with the ability to import and export data, create and edit shapefiles, and create professional looking maps.
  • Valid driver’s license required; use of personal vehicle required (mileage reimbursement provided).
Education and Experience Guideline: Applicants for this position should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources Management, Wildlife Management, Precision Agriculture, Agronomy, Ag Systems Technology, Ag Business, or related field. Candidates with an Associate degree and 5 or more years of relevant experience will be considered. Experience working on a farm operation and a knowledge of Conservation Programs is strongly preferred. A passion for the outdoors, conservation and working directly with farmers, private landowners and other professionals is highly beneficial.
Starting Salary: $46,000- $66,000. Commensurate with Experience + Benefits (see our benefits summary at www.pheasantsforever.org/jobs.
To Apply: Please combine your cover letter, resume and 3 references into a single Word document or PDF file before uploading as part of your application on our recruitment website at www.pheasantsforever.org/jobs. 
Contact: Dallas Glazik: dglazik@pheasantsforever.org or 217-841-2978
Pheasants 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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