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Conservation Program Manager Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Biologist

Grand Junction, CO ยท On-site +1

$50K - $80K/yr

... Recovery Program through intensive, conservation-focused hatchery propagation and close ... Identify, manage, and treat fish disease outbreaks, including the approved use of investigational ...

All Programs - Energy Advisor II

Yuma, CO ยท On-site

$52K - $62K/yr

Manage field time effectively with customer, Trade Ally and program stakeholder visits * Develop ... conservation and energy management, or related experience * Previous experience managing staff ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 23, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,311 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Bilingual Conservation Learning Specialist - Child & Family Discovery

Denver Zoo

Denver, CO โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (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, Curious, United, Courageous, and Transformative in all that we do.
The Bilingual Conservation Learning Specialist: Child and Family Discovery serves as a staff member at will of Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA). In that capacity, this position will advance the mission of DZCA through the facilitation and support of programs that build foundational connections to nature for young children and their caregivers, developing interest and affinity for wildlife and the natural world, and strengthening their ability to engage in developmentally appropriate conservation action.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Program Facilitation
  • Facilitate science and conservation learning through dynamic implementation of pre-written programs, including:
    • Nature play opportunities and programs for young children (ages 2-5) and their families.
    • Learning experiences for K-12 students during school field trips or through community outreach.
    • Day camp programs, including instruction and operational support.
  • Apply best practices in conservation education facilitation; adapt curricula and program plans to changing circumstances; flex facilitation style to best meet the needs of participants.
  • Handle live animals and biofacts; use and problem-solve technology, and drive DZCA vehicles (including the RV-based Neighborhood Nature Explorer) in support of programs.

Program Support and Development
  • Partner with Program Coordinators to execute program logistics: create, prepare, set up, break down, maintain, inventory, and clean program materials and supplies. Load and unload materials and supplies for community outreach programs.
  • As assigned, develop and update programs using the organizational program design process.
  • Collect, enter, and report program data, including attendance.
  • Model best practices for staff and volunteers and assist in the development or training of staff and volunteers as assigned.

Communication
  • Provide excellent program communication; communicate in clear language and adjust the use of language to participants' level of understanding.
  • Communicate effectively and professionally with all DZCA staff members; proactively communicate with department and program leaders about program needs and concerns; regularly check and communicate about varied and changing schedules.
  • Demonstrates and advocates for a positive and inclusive team culture.

Self-Development
  • Actively seek feedback and professional development opportunities to strengthen program facilitation, curriculum development, proactive engagement, developmentally appropriate teaching, empathy-building, and conservation learning practices.

Other Duties/Responsibilities
  • Other assistance, as designated by the Conservation Learning Coordinators or Managers, to support the overall goals of the department and organization. DZCA retains the right to add or change duties and/or responsibilities at any time.
  • While this position does not include formal supervisory responsibilities, it plays a key role in modeling best practices and may provide training, mentorship, and support to seasonal and part-time educators, as well as volunteers, in alignment with program goals.
  • The nature of this position requires safeguarding against the release of confidential and proprietary information of DZCA.
  • This position will interact with staff members across the organization, volunteers, members of external organizations, and the public, and will represent DZCA professionally and positively.

Technical / Professional Requirements & Qualifications
  • Completion or in pursuit of a high school degree or equivalent required, or any equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
  • Requires a minimum of 1 year of experience in environmental education in a nonprofit zoo or museum of science institution.
  • Experience and comfort working with children of various ages and with diverse communities is strongly preferred, or any equivalent combination of experience, lived experience, and/or special skills.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Requires demonstrated knowledge and dynamic skills in program facilitation and informal learning strategies; comfort in nature; experience engaging children in natural spaces preferred. Preference is given to candidates who have done so successfully in an informal biological or conservation education setting.
  • Requires organizational skills, written and oral communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize work and tasks.
  • Requires adaptability to produce and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, multi-task, and changing environment, and the ability to work as part of a team.
  • Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Ability to communicate and facilitate programs in English and Spanish is preferred.
  • Requires the ability to drive outreach vehicles, including vans and a small Class C RV, after provided training.
  • Ability to communicate and facilitate programs in English and Spanish is strongly preferred, with a pay differential for verified fluency.

Position Conditions
  • Ability to pass a background check and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.
  • To support our operational policies, candidates must be at least 21 years of age with a valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
  • Schedule Availability: The schedule follows a Tuesday - Saturday workweek, including weekends as regular workdays and occasional flexibility for seasonal operational or evening support.
  • Work Location: Primarily in-person, with programming delivered both on campus and at community locations.

Compensation
The range for this position is $20.85 - $24.50 (hourly).
For Bilingual: A pay differential will be paid for positions requiring Spanish speaking fluency.
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!

We encourage all qualified candidates to apply. If you're passionate about contributing to a dynamic, mission-driven organization, we want to hear from you!
Application Process and Timelines
This position will remain open until filled. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis until operational needs are met. DZCA reserves the right to close the position at any time.
Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance 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.