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Conservation Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

St. Croix County

Conservation Technician I

Hudson, WI · On-site

Obtains engineering job approval from Department of Ag Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) and the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) * Calculate and reports phosphorous and other ...

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Conservation Programmer information

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$40.5K

$80.7K

$112K

How much do conservation programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation programmer in the United States is $80,664.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a conservation programmer?

Conservation Programmers are professionals who use their programming and technical skills to support conservation efforts. They develop software tools, manage databases, analyze environmental data, and create digital solutions that help monitor, protect, and restore natural habitats and wildlife. Their work often involves collaborating with ecologists, conservationists, and other stakeholders to ensure technology effectively addresses challenges in biodiversity and environmental management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a conservation programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Conservation Programmer, you need strong programming skills (often in languages like Python, R, or GIS scripting), a background in environmental science, and experience with data analysis. Familiarity with tools such as ArcGIS, QGIS, remote sensing platforms, and relevant data management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for developing software solutions that support conservation efforts, analyze ecological data, and facilitate collaboration among scientists and stakeholders.

How does a conservation programmer typically collaborate with conservation scientists and field staff?

Conservation Programmers work closely with conservation scientists, field staff, and data analysts to design and implement software tools that support conservation efforts. This collaboration often involves gathering requirements from field teams, integrating scientific data into applications, and providing technical support to ensure tools are effective in real-world environments. Regular communication and feedback loops are essential to address changing project needs and to troubleshoot issues that arise during fieldwork. By bridging technology and conservation science, programmers help streamline data collection, analysis, and reporting processes.

What is the difference between Conservation Programmer vs Conservation Technician?

AspectConservation ProgrammerConservation Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science, computer science, or related field; programming skillsAssociate's or bachelor's degree in environmental science or related field; technical skills
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, fieldwork involving data collection and analysisFieldwork, site monitoring, data collection
Employer & Industry UsageEnvironmental agencies, conservation organizations, research institutionsWildlife agencies, conservation groups, government agencies

While both roles support conservation efforts, Conservation Programmers focus on developing software, data analysis, and programming tasks, often working in office environments. Conservation Technicians typically handle fieldwork, data collection, and site monitoring. The roles complement each other in conservation projects but differ mainly in technical focus and work setting.

Is it hard to get a job in conservation?

Getting a conservation programmer position can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as environmental science or computer programming skills, along with experience in data analysis or project management. Building a strong portfolio, gaining certifications, and networking within the field can improve job prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Conservation Programmer jobs?

For Conservation Programmer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Conservation Programmer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,664 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Individual Placement - Urban & Conservation at Willow Waterhole Greenspace Conservancy

Houston, TX • On-site

Student Conservation Association
Environmental Consulting Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Student Conservation Associationexternal

Temporary

Re-posted 11 hours ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support habitat restoration activities such as invasive species removal, native plant installation, prairie restoration, and tree mulching.

  • Assist with environmental education programming, volunteer coordination, and community engagement efforts.

  • Conduct plant and animal surveys, perform trail maintenance, and create social media content documenting conservation activities.

Job description

Position Summary
The SCA Conservation Educator member will be placed at Willow Waterhole Greenspace Conservancy (WWGC), a 291-acre urban greenspace and flood mitigation project serving a diverse community of over 70,000 residents in southwest Houston, Texas. The primary goal of this position is to support habitat restoration, environmental education, and community conservation programming across the site's 20-acre coastal prairie, riparian zones, and open water habitats. The member's major field duties will include invasive species removal, native plant installation, prairie restoration, tree mulching, trail maintenance, and plant and animal surveys. In addition to land stewardship, the member will assist with environmental education programming, social media content creation, volunteer coordination, and networking. One day per week, the member will collaborate with partner organization Neighborhoods to Trails Southwest (NTTSW), gaining exposure to trail planning, community engagement, and how private and government entities work together on urban greenspace projects. This position offers a comprehensive conservation experience that bridges hands-on habitat work with community outreach and professional development.
About the ForUsTree Program
This position is part of the ForUsTree Program, a paid workforce development initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and administered by the Student Conservation Association (SCA) in partnership with the Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC).
members are placed with nonprofit organizations and public agencies serving the Greater Houston region to gain hands-on experience in urban forestry, environmental stewardship, conservation, and community engagement. While members complete their day-to-day work under the supervision of their host organization, they are also members of the ForUsTree Cohort, receiving onboarding, regular check-ins, professional development opportunities, networking opportunities, and ongoing program support from SCA throughout the placement.
Hosting Organization
Willow Waterhole Greenspace Conservancy
Supervision
Host Site Supervisor
Members report directly to an assigned supervisor at the host organization, who is responsible for providing day-to-day supervision, work assignments, mentorship, site-specific training, bi-weekly timesheet approval, and regular feedback throughout the placement.
SCA Program Supervisor
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) serves as the program administrator for the ForUsTree Program. SCA staff provide onboarding, conduct regular individual check-ins, coordinate cohort activities, support professional development, monitor grant compliance, and serve as an additional resource throughout the opportunity. In addition to host site responsibilities, Members may have opportunities to participate in SCA-led activities as members of the ForUsTree Cohort. These opportunities may include supporting native fruit tree giveaway events, community outreach and volunteer events, environmental education programs, professional development and networking opportunities, multimedia and storytelling projects, SCA meetings, cohort activities, partner events, and other duties that support the individual placement experience and program objectives.
Location
Houston, TX
Schedule
October 5, 2026 - March 19, 2027
Key Duties and Responsibilities
  • Invasive species removal and woody plant management across a 20-acre coastal prairie and riparian habitats
  • Native plant installation, propagation, and habitat restoration
  • Conducting plant and wildlife surveys to support species inventories and restoration planning
  • Trail maintenance, litter removal, and general site stewardship
  • Tree mulching, maintenance, and care
  • Supporting environmental education programs, including K-12 field trips and community events
  • Volunteer coordination and community engagement
  • Creating social media content and documenting conservation activities through photography and other media
  • Collaborating one day per week with Neighborhoods to Trails Southwest to support trail planning, community outreach, and partner networking

Marginal Duties
Provide general office and administrative support, attend staff meetings and organizational events, assist with grant documentation and project reporting, and support special events such as the Colors of the Prairie Chalk Art Festival in November 2026. Participate in professional development opportunities, including TPWD Certified Angler Instructor workshops and guest speaker sessions. Capture photography and visual content for organizational communications and outreach, and assist with website updates, social media, and other digital content as needed.
Required Qualifications
Applicants must be currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a degree program in environmental science, biology, ecology, conservation, natural resources, environmental education, or a related field. Candidates must be able to perform physical outdoor work in variable weather conditions, including heat, humidity, and rain. A valid driver's license and reliable transportation to the host site are required. Applicants should have basic familiarity with native and invasive plant species of the Gulf Coast region or a willingness to learn. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are required for community engagement and volunteer coordination, along with the ability to work independently and collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and partner organizations. Candidates must also successfully pass a background check prior to starting the position.
Preferred Qualifications
Preferred qualifications include experience with invasive species identification and removal techniques, as well as familiarity with Gulf Coast native plant communities, particularly coastal prairie and riparian ecosystems. Experience assisting with or leading environmental education programs, community outreach, volunteer coordination, or other community engagement activities is highly valued. Candidates with social media content creation skills, including photography, videography, and caption writing, are encouraged to apply. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is preferred due to the diverse community served by WWGC. Familiarity with iNaturalist or similar citizen science platforms for species documentation, trail maintenance, or outdoor recreation programming is also beneficial. Prior experience with a conservation corps, AmeriCorps, or a similar service program is preferred.
Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
Not provided
Compensation
$850/week living allowance
$2,000 duty-related reimbursable expenses
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
Required
Additional Benefits
Interpretive Skills
AmeriCorps: Not Eligible
Equal Opportunity Statement
SCA is an equal opportunity employer. Selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and performance, without unlawful discrimination.

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