ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Conservation Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SFZOO

Field Conservation Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$71K/yr

Works closely with the Director to establish program priorities, manage competing deadlines, and ensure successful execution of multiple concurrent conservation programs. 8.Supports Field ...

Audubon

$85K - $96K/yr

About Audubon The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with ... The Senior Program Manager will lead the programs' operations, including but not limited to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsConservation Program JobsConservation Program Manager JobsConservation Program Manager Jobs in California

Conservation Program Manager information

What is the difference between Conservation Program Manager vs Conservation Scientist?

AspectConservation Program ManagerConservation Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science, ecology, or related field; project management experienceMaster's or Ph.D. in ecology, environmental science, or related field; research experience
Work EnvironmentProject planning, community outreach, collaboration with agencies and NGOsField research, data analysis, scientific reporting
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, government agencies, conservation organizations

The Conservation Program Manager focuses on planning, implementing, and managing conservation projects, often working with communities and stakeholders. In contrast, the Conservation Scientist primarily conducts research, analyzes ecological data, and contributes to scientific knowledge. Both roles are vital in conservation efforts but differ in their focus and daily activities.

What are some common challenges conservation program managers face when balancing multiple projects and stakeholders?

Conservation Program Managers often manage several projects simultaneously, each with its own timelines, goals, and stakeholders, such as government agencies, NGOs, and local communities. Balancing these demands requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks while maintaining clear communication among all parties. Navigating differing stakeholder interests and securing consistent funding can also be challenging, but these are typically addressed through strategic planning and collaborative problem-solving. Developing adaptive management strategies helps address unforeseen challenges and ensures conservation goals are met effectively.

What is a conservation program manager?

Conservation Program Managers are professionals who plan, implement, and oversee projects aimed at preserving natural resources, wildlife, and habitats. They coordinate conservation efforts by working with government agencies, nonprofits, communities, and other stakeholders. Their responsibilities often include managing budgets, supervising staff, monitoring project progress, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Conservation Program Managers also play a key role in developing strategies, securing funding, and evaluating the effectiveness of conservation programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a conservation program manager?

To thrive as a Conservation Program Manager, you need expertise in environmental science, project management, and grant writing, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in conservation. Familiarity with GIS software, data analysis tools, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Strong leadership, stakeholder engagement, and communication skills help you build partnerships and guide teams effectively. These abilities ensure successful program delivery, effective resource management, and the achievement of conservation goals.
What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation Program jobs in California? The most popular types of Conservation Program jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Conservation Program Manager jobs in California? For Conservation Program Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Conservation Program Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Conservation Program Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Conservation Program Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Conservation Program Manager job openings:
Conservation Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation Program Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Conservation Specialist I/II

GovernmentJobs.com

Montclair, CA • On-site

$36.89 - $48.40/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Conservation Specialist (CS) I/II

The Chino Basin Water Conservation District (District) is recognized as an innovative and effective water conservation organization. The District is dedicated to the protection of the Chino Groundwater Basin to ensure that the current and future water needs of the region are met. Its core business is two-pronged: (1) increase water supply through groundwater percolation; and (2) decrease water demand through conservation education, workforce training, and services. The District provides programs, services, and resources to audiences of all ages and backgrounds to cultivate a community-wide conservation ethic and build regional capacity for water resilience.

The Chino Basin Water Conservation District is currently seeking to fill the position of Conservation Specialist (CS) I/II. The Conservation Specialist (CS) I/II position leads and coordinates assigned programs within the department. Receives general supervision from the Conservation Programs Manager. The incumbent in this position does not routinely exercise supervision but may provide general support, oversight, and training for interns, lower-level staff, and volunteers. This is a full-time, 40 hours per week, non-exempt under FLSA standards, and hourly position that works a standard 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. work schedule. This position requires occasional holiday and evening work. Along with most of the Conservation Programs Department, this position works Saturdays as a normal workday, with Sunday and an employee selected and manager approved weekday as the regular days off.

Experience:

Please see full Job Description (Download PDF reader) to review the essential functions required for this position.

Education and Experience:

CS I: Associates degree is required, preferably in horticulture, plant science, landscape architecture, or related fields; or directly related equivalent work experience. Minimum 2 years of progressive responsibilities in professional horticulture, irrigation/landscape maintenance or conservation/resource program management, preferably with some amount of administrative duties.

CS II: Associates degree is required, preferably in horticulture, plant science, landscape architecture, landscape irrigation science, or related field; or directly related equivalent work experience. Minimum of 4 years of experience in professional horticulture, water use efficiency, or water resource management.

Bilingual in Spanish and English preferred but not required for both positions

Compensation:

The hourly range for the position CS I: $32.60- $42.78 / CS II: $36.89 – $48.40 per hour (3% COLA effective January 1, 2027). Position placement will depend on experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

  • CalPERS Classic Members: 2% at 60/ PEPRA Members: 2% at 62
  • CalPERS Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Medical/Dental/Vision through ACWA-JPIA. The District funds up to $2,431.47 a month for health coverage and employees are responsible for paying the balance over that amount.
  • $50,000 Life Insurance coverage 100% paid by the District.
  • 12 paid Holidays plus 2 Floating Holidays.
  • 96 hours of annual Vacation accrual, increasing to 160 hours after 10 years of service.
  • 80 hour per year, max accrual of 176 hours.

The recruitment requires that a cover letter addressing your professional experience and resume be uploaded with the application to be considered complete. This recruitment is open until filled. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Final review of applications will be on August 10, 2026. It is recommended that interested candidates apply immediately as this recruitment may close at any time. Interviews will be tentatively scheduled the week of August 17, 2026.

To apply: See full Job Flyer and apply online at www.cbwcd.org/jobs.

Apply