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Conservation Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Denver Zoo

Chief Philanthropy Officer

Denver, CO · On-site

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation, and ... The Chief Philanthropy Officer (CPO) will elevate and scale an integrated revenue platform spanning ...

Denver Zoo

Chief Philanthropy Officer

Denver, CO

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation, and ... The Chief Philanthropy Officer (CPO) will elevate and scale an integrated revenue platform spanning ...

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Conservation Officer information

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$23.5K

$75.9K

$182.5K

How much do conservation officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 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.
More about Conservation Officer jobs
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Conservation Officer jobs near you

Chief Philanthropy Officer

Denver Zoo

Denver, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation, and education. We are passionate about our commitment to excellence in support of our mission of Inspiring Communities to Save Wildlife for Future Generations.
DZCA honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves at the highest level of integrity through our Core Actions -- Inspire Awe: Safety, Care, Connect, and by embracing our Core Values of: Welcoming, United, Curious, Courageous and Transformative in all that we do.
The Chief Philanthropy Officer (CPO) will elevate and scale an integrated revenue platform spanning philanthropy, corporate partnerships, sponsorships, naming opportunities, and future capital initiatives. Reporting directly to the President and CEO, the CPO will serve as a key strategic partner and an integral member of the senior leadership team. This leader will oversee a development program generating approximately $9-11 million annually and lead a team of 14 professionals across major gifts, annual giving, institutional giving, corporate partnerships, events, and donor engagement.
The CPO will be charged with strengthening and scaling a high-performing fundraising operation, with a particular focus on expanding major and principal gifts, increasing campaign readiness, improving donor acquisition and retention strategies, and building a sophisticated, data-informed approach to philanthropy. This is an opportunity for a strategic and relationship-driven leader to build on a strong foundation and guide DZCA into its next era of philanthropic growth and impact.
In close partnership with the CEO, who brings a direct, relationship-oriented, and highly engaged approach to fundraising, the CPO will help shape and execute a bold, integrated development strategy. Together, they will inspire philanthropic investment in DZCA's mission, elevate its visibility among donors and partners and position the organization for long-term sustainability and future campaign success.
Our team is made up of passionate and diverse professionals dedicated to providing excellent care for our animals while creating meaningful experiences for our guests. If you're excited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you!
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Provide strategic leadership for all fundraising activities at DZCA, overseeing a comprehensive program across individual, corporate, foundation, planned giving, and events.
  • Serve as a key strategic partner to the President and CEO to shape and execute an ambitious, forward-looking philanthropic vision.
  • Design and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy that strengthens annual giving while significantly expanding major and principal gifts.
  • Build and personally manage a portfolio of high-capacity donors and prospects, leading cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts to secure transformational gifts.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop the philanthropy team, establishing clear expectations, accountability, and alignment while fostering a high-performing and collaborative culture aligned around clear goals and shared success.
  • Partner with the Board of Governors to enhance engagement in fundraising, support board member activation, and strengthen a culture of philanthropy across leadership.
  • Translate organizational priorities, including conservation, education, and capital initiatives, into compelling funding opportunities and donor-facing cases for support.
  • Prepare DZCA for capital campaigns and a robust pipeline of naming, sponsorship, and multi-year investment opportunities tied to DZCA's master plan and conservation agenda.
  • Develop and lead a comprehensive corporate partnerships and sponsorship strategy, positioning DZCA as a premier platform for mission-aligned brands across the region and nationally.
  • Identify, package, and execute high-value naming opportunities across campus, programs, and conservation initiatives, aligning donor interests with long-term institutional priorities.
  • Lead early planning and feasibility for a future capital campaign, including case development, prospect strategy, and lead gift cultivation.
  • Oversee donor experience and stewardship efforts, ensuring meaningful, personalized engagement that drives long-term retention and lifetime value.
  • Represent DZCA externally in the community, serving as a visible and compelling ambassador to donors, partners, and key stakeholders.

Technical / Professional Requirements & Qualifications
  • Provide strategic leadership for all fundraising activities at DZCA, overseeing a comprehensive
    program across individual, corporate, foundation, planned giving, and events.
  • Serve as a key strategic partner to the President and CEO to shape and execute an ambitious,
    forward-looking philanthropic vision.
  • Design and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy that strengthens annual
    giving while significantly expanding major and principal gifts.
  • Build and personally manage a portfolio of high-capacity donors and prospects, leading cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship efforts to secure transformational gifts.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop the philanthropy team, establishing clear expectations, accountability, and alignment while fostering a high-performing and collaborative culture aligned around clear goals and shared success.
  • Partner with the Board of Governors to enhance engagement in fundraising, support board member activation, and strengthen a culture of philanthropy across leadership.
  • Translate organizational priorities, including conservation, education, and capital initiatives, into compelling funding opportunities and donor-facing cases for support.
  • Prepare DZCA for capital campaigns and a robust pipeline of naming, sponsorship, and multi-year investment opportunities tied to DZCA's master plan and conservation agenda.

Position Conditions
  • Ability to pass a background check and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.

Compensation
The range for this position is $240,000 to $285,000 (annually).
A Truly Wild Workplace with Competitive Benefits
Join our team and enjoy a wide variety of great benefits, including:
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
  • 403(b) Retirement Account with employer match
  • Generous paid time off: vacation, sick leave, personal days, and holidays
  • A Family DZCA Membership with discounted tickets to special events
  • Concession and retail discounts, plus free parking
  • And so much more!

Application Process & Timelines:
Open until filled. Review of applications will begin immediately. To express your interest and explore this opportunity, please submit your resume and cover letter via the Maneva website: https://www.manevagroup.com/currentsearches
Denver Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected status or any other characteristic protected by law.
www.denverzoo.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.

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