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Conservation Program Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Audubon

Program Manager, Mississippi River

Audubon, IA · On-site +1

$73K - $82K/yr

About Audubon The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with ... regional programs will be a plus. The candidate should have experience with grant management and ...

Woodbury County, IA

Conservation Executive Director

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$119K - $144K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... programs • Supervises management staff and exercises responsibility for all other department ... Conservation Board Required Qualifications • Bachelor degree from an accredited college or ...

Audubon

Range Ecologist

Audubon, IA · On-site

$57K/yr

Develop Habitat Management Plans for private lands enrolled in conservation programs * Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts. * Collaborate with colleagues across the ...

JBS USA

EMT/LPN/RN/CMA - 3RD SHIFT

Marshalltown, IA

Occupational Health Manager- Jessica GarciaNonexempt Hourly Rate: Nonexempt / SNE Type of position ... conservation program; ensure that protective equipment is appropriate and properly used. Prepare ...

JBS USA

EMT/LPN/RN/CMA - 3RD SHIFT

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

Occupation al Health Manage r- Jessica Garcia Nonexempt Hourly Rate: Nonexempt / SNE Type of ... conservation program; ensure that protective equipment is appropriate and properly used. Prepare ...

JBS Imports

EMT/LPN/RN/CMA - 3RD SHIFT

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

Occupational Health Manager- Jessica Garcia Nonexempt Hourly Rate: Nonexempt / SNE Type of position ... conservation program; ensure that protective equipment is appropriate and properly used. Prepare ...

JBS USA

EMT/LPN/RN/CMA - 3RD SHIFT

Marshalltown, IA

Occupational Health Manager- Jessica Garcia Nonexempt Hourly Rate: Nonexempt / SNE Type of position ... conservation program; ensure that protective equipment is appropriate and properly used. Prepare ...

JBS Imports

EMT/LPN/RN/CMA - 3RD SHIFT

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

Occupational Health Manager- Jessica Garcia Nonexempt Hourly Rate: Nonexempt / SNE Type of position ... conservation program; ensure that protective equipment is appropriate and properly used. Prepare ...

JBS USA

EMT/LPN/RN/CMA - 3RD SHIFT

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

Occupation al Health Manage r- Jessica Garcia Nonexempt Hourly Rate: Nonexempt / SNE Type of ... conservation program; ensure that protective equipment is appropriate and properly used. Prepare ...

My County Parks

Executive Director

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

... conservation areas and educational programs Supervises management staff and exercises responsibility for all other department employees Responsible for hiring and discipline of all departmental ...

Latham Pool Products, Inc

EHS Specialist

De Witt, IA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Managing a full Respiratory Protection Program and Hearing Conservation Program.    * Familiarity with Powered Industrial Truck safety and Electrical Safety NFPA 70E.  * Capacity to multi ...

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All JobsConservation Program JobsConservation Program Manager JobsConservation Program Manager Jobs in Iowa

Conservation Program Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$34.3K

$103.7K

$163.3K

How much do conservation program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation program manager in Iowa is $103,692.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,700.00 and $133,400.00 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 Iowa?

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

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

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

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

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

Conservation Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation Program Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,692 per year, or $49.9 per hour.

Land & Water Conservationist

IOWA ASSN SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRIC

Spirit Lake, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance

Conservation Districts of Iowa
Land & Water Conservationists
Spirit Lake, Iowa
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Anticipated Start Date: Upon successful background check
The successful applicant would work in one of the following areas:
·       Housed in the Spirit Lake USDA-NRCS office  
 
These positions are funded through an agreement between the Conservation Districts of Iowa and the Iowa Natural Resource Conservation Service. Funding is secured through September of 2027 with the opportunity for extension.

Job Description:
Land & Water Conservationists will work to promote conservation practice adoption on private lands in Iowa by assisting with the delivery of USDA’s conservation programs including the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), and other federal, state, and local private lands conservation initiatives. Your efforts to promote and implement conservation practices will help to ensure that Iowa’s landowners and agricultural producers have the technical and financial assistance necessary to address natural resource concerns on their land. This will create positive environmental impacts to water quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat.
As a Conservation Districts of Iowa (CDI) employee, you would work in partnership with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). You would serve as a member of the NRCS Resource Team, receiving training and daily direction from the NRCS Resource Team Lead and District Conservationists for the effective delivery of conservation programs. You would also work closely with the DNR Private Lands Biologist to receive training on wildlife habitat assessment, development, and management for the delivery of wildlife-oriented initiatives. 
We expect the successful candidate to develop into an integral part of the effective delivery of conservation programs. This will involve coordinating with landowners and the resource team to promote conservation practice adoption to landowners and to develop conservation program applications, and create long-term conservation plans. Additionally, the successful candidate will be responsible for providing technical assistance and consultation to landowners for the successful implementation of these practices. At the end of the first year, success would mean that you have developed the skills and relationships necessary to assist landowners and your team members to promote and implement conservation practices using various conservation programs across the landscape. 
 

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agencies. 
  • Ability to work independently with little supervision and with diverse clientele.
  • Knowledge of water conservation and wildlife ecology, wetland and grassland management including the ability to utilize various habitat management tools in the development of management plans. 
  • Knowledge of water conservation and wildlife programs provided by federal (i.e. Farm Bill, US Fish and Wildlife Service), state, & local entities. In addition, knowledge of how these programs are implemented in an agricultural landscape is desired.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication.
  • Proficiency with computer software programs such as Microsoft Office, ArcGIS or USDA Conservation Desktop.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Valid driver’s license required.
  • Some overnight and evening work required.
  • Able to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications: 
Bachelor of Science Degree in Conservation Ecology or closely related natural resources field and 1-year related field experience in conservation related positions.

Benefits to the Applicant:

  • Professional Development: Gain valuable experience and skills in conservation program delivery while working alongside experienced professionals in the field.
  • Impactful Work: Contribute to meaningful conservation efforts that benefit local ecosystems and wildlife, and make a tangible difference in environmental protection.
  • Networking Opportunities: Build strong professional relationships with landowners and conservation organizations, expanding your network within the industry.
  • Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and expertise through hands-on experience and professional development opportunities. Previous staff members have successfully leveraged their experience to secure permanent positions within the conservation field, demonstrating the strong potential for career advancement as a result of this experience.
  • Compensation and Benefits:
  • Hourly Rate: $18.47/hour
  • Health Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance coverage
  • Retirement Package: Retirement savings plan
  • Paid Time Off: Paid holidays and paid leave
  • Opportunities for Raises: Potential for salary increases based on performance
Please note that CDI reserves the right to amend or terminate any benefit plans. Participation in these benefits does not constitute a contract or guarantee of future employment.
To Apply: Please include your cover letter indicating which position(s) you are applying for, your resume, and three professional references as one PDF file. Send to Dien Judge at dien@cdiowa.org. CDI is an equal opportunity employer.