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Conservation Program Manager Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Zero Waste Program Manager

Boulder, CO · Hybrid

$94K - $135K/yr

The Zero Waste Program Manager works in the Resource Conservation Division of Boulder County Public Works Department. This position manages Boulder County's zero waste programs. These programs ...

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Conservation Program Manager information

See Colorado salary details

$33.2K

$100.3K

$158K

How much do conservation program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation program manager in Colorado is $100,311.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,400.00 and $129,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Conservation Program jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Conservation Program jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Conservation Program Manager jobs in Colorado?

For Conservation Program Manager jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Conservation Program Manager jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Conservation Program Manager jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Conservation Program Manager jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Conservation Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Conservation Program Manager job openings in Colorado as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 84% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,311 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Zero Waste Program Manager

Boulder, CO • Hybrid

$94K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description Boulder County Public Works Department is seeking to hire a Zero Waste Program Manager. The Zero Waste Program Manager works in the Resource Conservation Division of Boulder County Public Works Department. This position manages Boulder County's zero waste programs.

These programs include the free recycling drop-off centers throughout the county, the mountain waste transfer stations, the hauler licensing program, mountain spring clean-up program, the circular economy funding grants and internal zero waste services for county buildings and staff This is a full-time, benefited position that will work Monday - Friday from 8:00am-4:30pm, flexible on exact hours. This position can work a hybrid schedule from home and at 1901 63rd Street, Boulder, CO 80301. Under Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) guidelines this position is exempt.

Boulder County requires its employees to reside in the state of Colorado as of the first day of work. Hiring Salary Range: $94,320.00 - $115,062.00 Annually Tentative Hiring Timeline: Phone Screening: Week of September 28th First Round Interviews: Week of September 28th Second Round Interviews: Week of October 5th Reference Check: Week of October 5th New employees receive an80-hour bank of vacation at the time of hire, in addition to 8 hours of both vacation and medical leave accruals each month (Must not have been employed at Boulder County during the 12 months prior to re-hire date to qualify). Boulder County offers bountiful benefits including pension contributions

Boulder County employees may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). Visit studentaid.gov for more information. Examples of Duties Supervises, coordinates, and directs the activities of the Zero Waste Program, including managing the mountain transfer stations, policy implementation, and internal zero waste program Supports the Boulder County internal zero waste program Manages and supervises the mountain transfer stations and staff in Nederland and Allenspark Leads, directs, and assists in the implementation and creation of local, regional, and state-wide zero waste and sustainability policy Produces, administers, monitors, and coordinates complex program budgets Prepares program and financial reports Develops, implements, and oversees various recycling, composting, and other diversion programs Monitors and improves systems of program data collection and accountability Administers and enforces the County trash hauler's licensing program including waste diversion tracking Works with community partners to assure comprehensive planning and efficient service delivery Performs complex work involving budgets, procurements, contracts, and regulatory compliance issues Represents the Resource Conservation Division and functions as a technical resource Assists the public by answering inquiries and providing information concerning resource conservation and zero waste

Assists in assuring that all related equipment, buildings, and sites are properly maintained Serves as resource for other staff members concerning technical or professional problems Acts as a liaison to relevant local, state, and national organizations Performs related duties, as required May be reassigned in case of emergency situation Required Qualifications PLEASE NOTE: When completing your application describe all relevant education and experience, as applications are assessed based on the required qualifications listed. Resumes and other attachments are not accepted in lieu of completed applications and will not be reviewed in the initial screening process. Any personally identifiable information (PII) such as name and address will be redacted from applications that meet the minimum screening requirements and are forwarded to the hiring manager.

If the hiring manager selects you to advance in the hiring process, your attachments will then be shared with the hiring team. EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE: Boulder County is looking for well qualified candidates to fill our positions. Any combination of relevant education and experience is encouraged.

In this position, we are looking for a minimum of 8 years of combined education and experience which can include degrees in environmental studies, public administration, business administration or related field, and/or experience with zero waste, sustainable materials management, resource conservation, sustainability, or a related field. DRIVER'S LICENSE & RELIABLE VEHICLE: Applicants must have a valid driver's license, a good driving record, and current automobile insurance Must have a valid driver's license in good standing; adequate automobile insurance; and access to reliable transportation that is readily available for business use Can this job be done using public transportation/ride share, etc. BACKGROUND CHECK: A job offer is contingent on passing a background investigation PRE-EMPLOYMENT PHYSICAL: Candidates for this position will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment physical Supplemental Information PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: One year of supervisory experience Has strong interpersonal and customer service skills; enjoys being a strong and productive problem solver; Can easily utilize computers to generate spreadsheets, perform statistical analysis, create graphs/charts, write memos, and produce high-quality presentations; Communicates well with others.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Primarily sedentary physical work requiring ability to lift a maximum of 40 pounds; occasional lifting, carrying, walking and standing; frequent hand/eye coordination to operate computer keyboard and office equipment; vision for reading, recording and interpreting information; speech communication and hearing to maintain communication with employees and members of the public. Boulder County is a workplace dedicated to supporting individuals and families of all types and to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful environment for all employees. We prohibit unlawful discrimination against applicants and employees on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.