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Conservation Program Manager Jobs in Portage, IN

clubquarters

Engineering Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Summary Hotel Manager At Club Quarters Hotels, we're opening doors to opportunity in the world ... Conservation Program. o Ensure adherence to all local, state and federal safety regulations ...

Club Quarters

Engineering Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

Summary Hotel Manager At Club Quarters Hotels, we're opening doors to opportunity in the world ... Conservation Program. o Ensure adherence to all local, state and federal safety regulations ...

City Of Gary

Land Quality Manager

Gary, IN · On-site

$45K - $48K/yr

Land Quality Manager Responsible for the protection and conservation of land and water quality resources in accordance with solid waste, brownfields, and groundwater policies and program at the local ...

Openlands

Vice President of External Affairs

Chicago, IL · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

... and Land Conservation and Land Management to build shared systems for collecting, evaluating, and reporting data across land-based programs. Define success metrics and track progress toward ...

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All JobsConservation Program JobsConservation Program Manager JobsConservation Program Manager Jobs in Portage, IN

Conservation Program Manager information

See Portage, IN salary details

$35.3K

$98.6K

$144K

How much do conservation program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation program manager in Portage, IN is $98,585.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,900.00 and $121,600.00 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 popular job titles related to Conservation Program Manager jobs in Portage, IN?

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

What job categories do people searching Conservation Program Manager jobs in Portage, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Conservation Program Manager jobs in Portage, IN are:

What cities near Portage, IN are hiring for Conservation Program Manager jobs?

Cities near Portage, IN with the most Conservation Program Manager job openings:

Conservation Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation Program Manager job openings in Portage, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,585 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Conservation Ecologist, Chicago, Keller Science Action Center

Field Museum

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position: Conservation Ecologist, Chicago Region, Keller Science Action Center
FLSA Status: Exempt
Department: Keller Science Action Center
Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to the natural environment and human history.
Join our team and enjoy a benefits package that truly supports your well-being and lifestyle:
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.
  • Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
  • Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.

We're dedicated to enhancing your life both at work and beyond!
The Field Museum's Keller Science Action Center translates museum science and expertise into action for conservation and quality of life. We are seeking a Conservation Ecologist to support work in the Chicago Wilderness region, where we collaborate with a wide network of partners to advance conservation on the ground in Chicago, Kankakee County, and Northwest Indiana, with the potential to extend into other areas.
The successful candidate brings strong knowledge of regional conservation context and natural and human communities, a passion for collaborative interdisciplinary research and fieldwork, and taxonomic expertise in at least one focal group, and a dedication to quick and tangible results. This experienced conservation ecologist will contribute to the strategy, methods and future direction of the Chicago Program, and will work with team members to develop and implement effective, collaborative approaches oriented to decision-making for conservation and people's well-being. This position is hired on a 3-year term with potential for renewal, is based at the Field Museum in Chicago and reports to the Sr. Director of the Keller Science Action Center.
The work involves regular local field work, and 10-20% of the year devoted to regional travel. Review of candidates will begin August 28 and continue until the position is filled.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provide ecological and taxonomic expertise to Action Center conservation efforts.
  • Lead initiatives within the Chicago program with an interdisciplinary team that includes ecologists, social scientists, and educators.
  • Collaborate as a lead scientist in the Chicago region including planning, fieldwork, and technical reporting to establish and sustain conservation that benefits local communities.
  • Manage key relationships with partners and help establish new partnerships that advance our conservation and well-being goals.
  • Work closely with Action Center staff and partners to synthesize insights and outcomes across particular experiences and generate understanding to leverage results at larger landscape scales.
  • Support the monitoring, evaluation, and iterative improvement of the program.
  • Contribute to grant proposals, technical reports, and other materials for dissemination, including peer-reviewed publications, that support the creation or management of conservation landscapes.
  • Support the creation of conservation tools and training opportunities for conservation professionals, scientists, and other stakeholders.
  • Integrate ecological expertise into the development of long-term conservation strategies in collaboration with other Action Center scientists and partners, identifying and implementing opportunities to expand conservation programming and funding.

Experience and Qualifications (Required):
  • Advanced degree in ecology, conservation biology, wildlife science, or related conservation science field
  • Minimum 4 years of experience in applied conservation science, including fieldwork and project implementation
  • Demonstrated experience working in the Chicago region or a similar large metropolitan ecosystem where conservation occurs across an urban natural mosaic and at corridor/landscape scales.
  • Experience managing projects and competent working both independently and in a team
  • Strong writing, editing and verbal communication skills: able to structure ideas clearly and to communicate them in English to a wide range of audiences
  • Proficiency with digital work platforms such as MS Office and Google Workspace
  • Willingness to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Preferred Experience receiving input from local communities to shape their research.
  • Fluency in Spanish
  • Experience working with diverse partners and stakeholders

Applications must include the following:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • A minimum of three professional references

Equity Commitment
The Keller Science Action Center is committed to a workforce that is diverse and inclusive and the Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Field Museum strives to create a working environment that is free of harassment, discrimination, and retaliation and that promotes human dignity among all staff. Realizing that good relations between co-workers are an integral part of job satisfaction, the Field Museum strives to create a climate of mutual respect among all employees.
Supervision Received:
Receives general supervision by Keller Science Action Sr. Director
Supervision Exercised:
The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
Work Hours and Shift:
35 hours
Hybrid Eligibility:
Eligible
Union Representation:
This position is represented by Field Museum Workers United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO
Location:
1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60605
Pay Range:
$62,000-$70,000
PLEASE READ: *When you apply for multiple positions, please make sure to delete your previous resume and cover letter and upload the latest version of your resume and cover letter that is relevant to the job you are applying for, every time you apply. This will help our hiring managers access the correct documents. Please note that removing the resume and cover letter will not delete any previously submitted resumes and cover letters.
The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.
At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at recruitment@fieldmuseum.org .

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