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Conservation Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Currently licensed with the Minnesota Police Officer Standards and Training (MN P.O.S.T.) or has passed the MN P.O.S.T written test and license eligible. * Exceptional communication and interpersonal ...

Currently licensed with the Minnesota Police Officer Standards and Training (MN P.O.S.T.) or has passed the MN P.O.S.T written test and license eligible. * Exceptional communication and interpersonal ...

Community Service Officer

Prior Lake, MN · On-site

$4K - $5K/mo

The basic responsibilities include assisting the SMSC Community, SMSC Conservation Officer, police officers, public, and other SMSC staff by performing a variety of public relations technical ...

Community Service Officer

Prior Lake, MN · On-site

$4K - $5K/mo

The basic responsibilities include assisting the SMSC Community, SMSC Conservation Officer, police officers, public, and other SMSC staff by performing a variety of public relations technical ...

Security Officer

Yulee, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $16.75/hr

Security Officer Department: Security Reports To: Head of Security FLSA Status: Non-exempt ... The conservation programs span 600 acres along the St. Mary's River in northeast Florida ...

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Showing results 1-20

Conservation Officer information

See salary details

$23.5K

$75.9K

$182.5K

How much do conservation officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation officer in the United States is $75,929.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Conservation Officer vs Wildlife Technician?

AspectConservation OfficerWildlife Technician
Required CredentialsEnvironmental or natural resource degree, certifications in conservationWildlife biology or related degree, field-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, community outreach, enforcement activitiesField surveys, data collection, habitat management
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, conservation organizationsResearch institutions, wildlife agencies, NGOs

Both Conservation Officers and Wildlife Technicians work in natural environments and require related degrees. Conservation Officers often focus on enforcement and community engagement, while Wildlife Technicians primarily handle field data collection and habitat management. They share similar certifications and work in overlapping settings, but their roles differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are some common challenges Conservation Officers face in the field and how can they prepare for them?

Conservation Officers often encounter challenging situations such as working in remote locations, dealing with unpredictable weather, and interacting with individuals who may be violating environmental laws. They must be prepared for physical demands, potential confrontations, and the need to make quick decisions under pressure. Staying physically fit, continuously updating knowledge of laws and local ecosystems, and participating in regular training can greatly help Conservation Officers navigate these challenges safely and effectively.

What are Conservation Officers?

Conservation Officers are law enforcement professionals responsible for protecting natural resources, wildlife, and public lands. They enforce environmental laws, educate the public about conservation, and ensure compliance with regulations related to hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation. Conservation Officers often patrol parks, forests, and waterways, investigate environmental crimes, and collaborate with other agencies to promote sustainable resource use. Their work helps preserve ecosystems and maintain biodiversity for future generations.

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

To thrive as a Conservation Officer, you need a solid understanding of environmental science, wildlife management, and law enforcement, typically backed by a relevant degree and sometimes POST certification. Familiarity with GIS mapping, evidence collection tools, and regulatory databases is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and excellent communication are vital for interacting with the public and resolving conflicts. These skills ensure the effective protection of natural resources, enforcement of environmental laws, and productive community engagement.
What cities are hiring for Conservation Officer jobs? Cities with the most Conservation Officer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation Officer jobs? The most popular types of Conservation Officer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Conservation Officer jobs? The top employers for Conservation Officer jobs are:
What states have the most Conservation Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Conservation Officer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Conservation Officer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,929 per year, or $36.5 per hour.
Conservation Officer

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Conservation Officer

Are you ready to kick start your law enforcement career? Come be a part of protecting the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community! You will be responsible for providing public safety law enforcement services to the Community under the authority of SMSC resolutions, ordinances and Minnesota Statute. Enjoy weekly pay, 401k match day one, and health benefits.

Job Overview: Responsible for providing public safety law enforcement services to the Community under the authority of SMSC resolutions, ordinances and Minnesota Statute. Works jointly with other neighboring law enforcement agencies, providing resource and recreation protection according to applicable statutes, regulations and policies. Protector of the Community's Natural Resources including Land, Air, Water and Wildlife.

Maximize Your Impact: The Responsibilities You'll Own:

  • Responds to complaints and violations within the Community. Reviews the facts to determine if Ordinance or Statute violations have occurred. Issues violation notices and citations, when appropriate.
  • Works jointly with SMSC Tribal Court, SMSC Gaming Enterprise and SMSC Business Council to serve notices. Adheres to Tribal Court orders and appears in court as directed. Additionally, serves as Bailiff during Tribal Court hearings.
  • Directly responsible for the enforcement of the SMSC Fish/Game and Animal Control Ordinances. This includes the issuance of SMSC hunting license and deer stand permits. Investigates animal bites and alleged violations, interviews witnesses, and reports violations.
  • Maintains a variety of logs, records and correspondence to document inspection and enforcement activities. Records facts and prepares written summary reports to document activities, using the Records Management System (RMS).
  • Maintain chain of custody records and documentation for all evidence and confiscated items. Adheres to Data Practice rules governed by Statute.
  • Attend certification and re-certification classes, develop a training plan and deliver required training to members of the department. Ensures compliance with the Minnesota Peace Office's Standards and Training (MN P.O.S.T.) are met.
  • Responsible for researching, developing and presenting educational materials and/or programs to the Community.
  • Attend and complete both resident and online training to meet prescribed mandated Continued Education Unit training.

Job Requirements:

  • Minimum of two years post secondary education in law enforcement/criminal justice and preferred 4-6 years of experience.
  • Currently licensed with the Minnesota Police Officer Standards and Training (MN P.O.S.T.) or has passed the MN P.O.S.T written test and license eligible.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills – ability to communicate using persuasive techniques that impact and influence the actions of others by diffusing volatile situations.
  • Valid Class D driver's license may be required with a good driving record.
  • Must be able to pass weapon qualification with assigned duty weapon.
  • Must be able to pass comprehensive background check, medical and psychological exam.
  • This position is subject to testing for drugs (THC included) & alcohol in accordance with the Federal Department of Transportation Regulations as well as the SMSC's Drug / THC and Alcohol Policy.
  • Ability to work in a wide range of climate temperatures, including excessive heat and/or subzero temperatures.
  • Capacity to handle and lift up to 40 lbs. as needed.

Outstanding Benefits & Awesome Perks : At the SMSC, we are invested in our Team Members, as demonstrated by the competitive benefits we offer. Team Members may be eligible for benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, and a generous PTO package, which includes outreach hours for volunteer work through our #SMSCgives outreach program. Plus, take advantage of perks like discounts on childcare, fuel, bus passes and fitness membership, free uniforms and free uniform cleaning, and tuition reimbursement.

Who We Are: The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community contributes both time and financial resources across the region, state, and country. The SMSC has donated more than $400 million to organizations and causes, provided $500 million in economic development loans to other tribes, and contributed millions more to support regional governments and infrastructure. The SMSC's Native Green initiative annually diverts hundreds of tons of waste from landfills, has implemented compostable containers throughout our properties, and restored hundreds of acres of prairie land. Team members are eligible to participate in SMSC Gives, a community outreach initiative that organizes various opportunities in the local community. To empower its team members to take part in the Dakota tradition of giving, the SMSC provides paid hours to team members to volunteer at events. Learn more at shakopeedakota.org

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.