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Conservation Officer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

My County Parks

Executive Director

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

Serves as Chief Administrative Officer. Supervises designated personnel. This position is under the direct authority of the County Conservation Board. Essential Functions and Responsibilities: The ...

My County Parks

Director

Algona, IA · On-site

$70 - $110/hr

The Director also serves as the chief administrative officer between the Conservation Board and other public entities as well as the public. Essential Job Duties * Regular and prompt attendance is an ...

New

Scott County, IA

Park Ranger- West Lake Park

Davenport, IA · On-site

$59K - $66K/yr

Conservation Department Division: Scott County Park Opening Date: 08/11/2026 Closing Date: 9/4/2026 ... Certified Officers are eligible for a $5,000 hiring bonus that is paid out as follows. $2,500 after ...

All JobsConservation Officer JobsConservation Officer Jobs in Iowa

Conservation Officer information

See Iowa salary details

$22.1K

$71.3K

$171.4K

How much do conservation officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation officer in Iowa is $71,318.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,600.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a conservation officer?

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?

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 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 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.

Is becoming a conservation officer hard?

Becoming a conservation officer typically requires completing relevant education such as a degree in environmental science, wildlife management, or a related field, along with passing physical and written exams. The job can be competitive and often involves on-the-job training, certifications, and experience in law enforcement or natural resource management.

What degree do you need to be a conservation officer?

Conservation officers typically need at least a bachelor's degree in environmental science, wildlife management, biology, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of local ecosystems, law enforcement, and often certification in first aid or law enforcement training, depending on the jurisdiction.

What does a conservation officer do?

A conservation officer enforces laws and regulations related to wildlife, natural resources, and environmental protection. They conduct patrols, investigate violations, educate the public, and may require certifications in law enforcement or environmental science. Their work often involves outdoor activity and collaboration with agencies to preserve ecosystems.
More about Conservation Officer jobs

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Cities in Iowa with the most Conservation Officer job openings:

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Conservation Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation Officer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,318 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Conservation Executive Director

Woodbury County, IA

Sioux City, IA • On-site

$119K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Salary: $119,458.00 - $144,458.00 Annually
Location : Sioux City, IA
Job Type: FT
Job Number: 2026-0050
Department: Conservation
Opening Date: 08/07/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Under general direction of the Conservation Board, develops, directs and evaluates the administrative, recreational and educational services, operations and maintenance, capital development and improvement programs for the Board. Serves as Chief Administrative Officer. Supervises designated personnel. This position is under the direct authority of the County Conservation Board.
Duties
• Be on call 24 hours per day to handle or consult on major problems and work a flexible schedule as needed
• Coordinating, directing, and organizing the human, physical and financial resources of the department to efficiently and effectively accomplish the maintenance, improvement and development of county park and conservation areas and educational programs
• Supervises management staff and exercises responsibility for all other department employees
• Responsible for hiring and discipline of all departmental employees
• Review and document employee performance in relation to County and department goals and expectations
• Oversees enforcement of park rules, state and local laws and ordinances
• Communicates effectively and tactfully with the public, both individually and in groups
• Recommends appointment of department peace officers and cooperates with other law enforcement agencies
• Develops, recommends, and manages annual department budgets in a fiscally responsible manner
• Develops long-range plans and makes recommendations concerning acquisitions, development and purchases
• Writes, coordinates and administers grants and supplemental funds to assist department programs
• Maintains effective working relationships with staff; other county departments; local, state and federal agencies; and private organizations
• Researches and prepares a variety of reports including an annual report of department activities
• Verifies and approves all departmental payrolls, claims and expenditures
• Prepares the agenda for each Board meeting and assists the President in the functions of the meeting
• Maintains certifications and keeps current on trends and developments in areas of responsibility
• Develops specifications, secures bids, and negotiates contracts
• Develops and manages the natural resources of the department
• Travel required for training and conference related to position of Director
• Attendance is required
Non-Essential Functions and Responsibilities:
• Performs various other duties relating to scope of responsibility as assigned by the County Conservation Board
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in park administration, fish and wildlife biology, or a related conservation field, and five (5) years administrative or management experience in parks or conservation programs. Master degree in Public Administration or related field preferred
• Law Enforcement degree not required but will honor it and IPERS for law enforcement if applicant is certified.
• Ability to understand the natural resource and recreation needs of the community and formulate recommendations for the acquisition and development of public resource lands, facilities and programs to meet those needs
• Knowledge of all policies, methods, procedures and regulations of the conservation board as well as state laws
• Knowledge of material, methods and techniques utilized in construction and maintenance activities
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of public and business administration, supervision and management technique
• Thorough knowledge of current literature, trends, and development in the fields of conservation, parks and recreation
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing
• Ability to develop long range plans, organize work schedules and direct subordinates
• Ability to maintain discipline and motivate staff
• Knowledge of computer skills to effectively operate Microsoft Office and Arc View software
• Ability to use tact in handling delicate and sensitive public relation problems
• Ability to analyze and evaluate the opinions of the public and special interest groups
• Ability to make financial determinations on budgets and expenditures
• Skill necessary to objectively evaluate Board programs, operations and facilities; proficient organizational skills
• Ability to handle stressful situations
• Satisfactory driving record and possession of a valid Iowa Driver's License
• Basic First Aid and CPR certification
• Candidate for hire must successfully pass a background check, a physical examination, vision, back screen, hearing screen/test and Iowa DOT drug screen prior to employment
Supplemental Information
A completed County application form, resume and cover letter are required.
Deadline for receipt of applications shall be: 4:30 p.m., September 25, 2026
ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS MUST BE SUBMITTED WITH THE APPLICATION OTHERWISE THE APPLICATION WILL NOT BE FORWARDED.
Woodbury County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the County will consider reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the Employer.
Woodbury County provides a wide range of employee benefits to support health and well-being, and work/life balance. Benefits can vary depending on collective bargaining agreements. Woodbury County's competitive benefit package includes:
  • Health, Dental, Life & Long Term Disability
  • Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS)
  • Paid vacation days
  • 10 Paid holidays
  • Paid sick leave
  • Worker's Compensation
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending for Medical Reimbursement and Dependent Care
  • Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Eye Insurance
  • Discounted membership rate for Four Seasons Health Club
For more information go to:

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