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Conservation Planning Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Principal Landscape Architect (On-Call)

Portland, OR · On-site

$73K - $100K/yr

Work with ICF's cross-regional Ecosystem Restoration, Landscape Architecture, and Engineering Practice members and colleagues from our conservation planning, climate resilience, disaster management ...

Assistant Planning Director

OR · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

As the Planning Supervisor / Assistant Planning Director , you will play a visible leadership role guiding how growth, conservation, and community priorities come together in practice. You won't just ...

Assistant Planning Director

Eugene, OR · On-site

$89K - $122K/yr

As the Planning Supervisor / Assistant Planning Director, you will play a visible leadership role guiding how growth, conservation, and community priorities come together in practice. You won't just ...

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Showing results 1-20

Conservation Planning information

See Oregon salary details

$59.2K

$109.1K

$166K

How much do conservation planning jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation planning in Oregon is $109,131.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,300.00 and $123,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is conservation planning?

Conservation planning is the process of identifying and prioritizing areas, resources, or actions to protect natural habitats, biodiversity, and ecosystem services. It involves assessing ecological data, stakeholder interests, and potential threats to create effective strategies for conservation. Professionals in this field work to balance environmental protection with human needs, often collaborating with government agencies, non-profits, and communities. The ultimate goal is to ensure the long-term sustainability of natural resources and healthy ecosystems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in conservation planning?

To thrive in Conservation Planning, a strong background in environmental science, ecology, or natural resource management, often with a relevant degree, is essential. Familiarity with GIS software, environmental impact assessment tools, and regulatory frameworks is typically required. Excellent communication, collaboration, and project management skills set top professionals apart in this field. These skills are crucial for developing effective conservation strategies, influencing stakeholders, and ensuring sustainable environmental outcomes.

What is the difference between Conservation Planning vs Environmental Planning?

AspectConservation PlanningEnvironmental Planning
CredentialsTypically requires degrees in ecology, environmental science, or related fieldsRequires degrees in environmental science, urban planning, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, ecological assessments, habitat conservation projectsUrban development projects, policy development, environmental impact assessments
Industry UsageConservation organizations, government agencies focused on habitat preservationMunicipalities, consulting firms, government agencies involved in land use planning

While both roles focus on environmental issues, Conservation Planning primarily emphasizes habitat preservation and species conservation, often involving fieldwork. Environmental Planning covers broader land use and development considerations, including urban and infrastructure projects. Understanding these differences helps professionals and employers align skills with job requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in conservation planning, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in conservation planning often encounter challenges such as balancing ecological goals with stakeholder interests, limited funding, and navigating complex regulatory frameworks. Addressing these challenges typically involves strong collaboration with local communities, government agencies, and other environmental organizations to build consensus and secure resources. Effective communication skills, adaptability, and a solid understanding of both ecological science and policy are essential for overcoming obstacles and achieving successful conservation outcomes.
What are popular job titles related to Conservation Planning jobs in Oregon? For Conservation Planning jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Conservation Planning jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Conservation Planning job openings:
Infographic showing various Conservation Planning job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, and 55% Part Time. Highlights an 73% In-person, 9% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,131 per year, or $52.5 per hour.

Endangered Species Ecologist - Portland, OR

Tetra Tech

Portland, OR • On-site, Remote

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Tetra Tech rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

395th of 441 rated engineering


Job description

The Opportunity:

Tetra Tech is adding an experienced Endangered Species Ecologist to support renewable energy, infrastructure, and environmental permitting projects throughout North America.

This role will provide strategic technical support for projects involving renewable energy (wind, solar, battery storage), transmission and pipeline infrastructure, and other development projects requiring environmental review and permitting. The successful candidate will support biological assessments, permitting strategies, regulatory coordination, and environmental compliance efforts associated with federal and state environmental regulations.

This position may be performed remotely, with affiliation to our Portland, Oregon office.

 

Location: Remote Eligible (Based out of Portland, OR Office)

Why Tetra Tech:

At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world's most complex challenges.  Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world.  For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.  Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.  Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

Your Impact:

Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference.  Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Provide high-level technical support and strategic guidance for:
    • Renewable energy projects (wind, solar, battery storage)
    • Traditional energy projects
    • Linear infrastructure projects (transmission lines, pipelines)
  • Support environmental permitting and due diligence activities
  • Prepare and contribute to:
    • NEPA documents (EAs, EISs, CATEXs)
    • Biological Assessments (BAs)
    • Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs)
    • Eagle Conservation Plans (ECPs)
    • Mitigation and compliance plans
  • Support project development activities including:
    • Proposal preparation
    • Scope and budget development
    • Compliance strategy development
  • Represent clients in discussions and negotiations with regulatory agencies
  • Participate in conferences and industry events to support business development and company visibility
  • Provide technical review and quality assurance of biological and environmental work products
  • Potentially manage projects and multidisciplinary project teams
  • Conduct activities in line with internal procedures, legislation, and industry standards.
  • Pursue continuous professional development and maintain a high degree of discipline knowledge and awareness.
  • Work in a safe manner at all times and report all health and safety incidents and concerns.
  • Additional duties as required.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in:
    • Environmental Science
    • Ecology
    • Biology
    • Natural Resources Planning
    • Geography
    • Related discipline
  • Minimum of 8 years of professional experience supporting public and/or commercial clients
  • Experience with:
    • Environmental permitting related to wildlife, bats, and/or avifauna
    • Threatened and endangered species studies
    • Habitat assessments and post-construction mortality monitoring
  • Strong technical writing, communication, and organizational skills
  • Demonstrated ability to:
    • Lead technical efforts
    • Build stakeholder relationships
    • Support strategic environmental planning
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Must possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record without restrictions.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in:
    • Hawaii
    • Pacific Northwest
    • Midwest
    • Southeast U.S.
  • Applied knowledge of:
    • Ecological assessment
    • Environmental impact analysis
    • Habitat conservation planning
    • Environmental due diligence
  • Experience with:
    • ESA Sections 7 and 10 compliance
    • USFWS consultation processes
    • CWA Sections 401 and 404 permitting
    • Federal and state permitting processes
  • Experience preparing and negotiating:
    • HCPs
    • ECPs and Eagle Take Permits under BGEPA
  • Experience with:
    • Fatality estimation and risk assessment tools
    • Wildlife and habitat analysis
    • NEPA-compliant documentation
  • Demonstrated success in:
    • Regulatory negotiations
    • Technical scope and budget development
    • Team leadership and mentoring
    • Client and business development
    • Project management

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to conduct occasional field visits and site assessments as needed
  • Ability to travel for project work, meetings, conferences, and client support

Work Environment / Travel:

  • Remote or hybrid work environment with affiliation to the Portland, OR office
  • Collaboration with multidisciplinary environmental and engineering teams across North America
  • Occasional travel to field sites, client meetings, and industry events

Life at Tetra Tech:

The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:

  • Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.  https://www.tetratech.com/careers/life-at-tetra-tech/
  • Merit-based financial rewards.
  • Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
  • Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
  • Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth. 

A pre-employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.

Compensation:

Pay commensurate with experience.

Pay Range: $130,000-$190,000 annually

Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience and demonstrated work experience in the above role; skills, certifications, and competencies that align to the specified role; geographic location; and education, as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech's employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.

About Tetra Tech:

Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.

Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.

We invite applications from all interested parties.

Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers  Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:

LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers

X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs

Additional Information
  • Organization: 194 CES

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