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Conservation Scientist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SFZOO

Field Conservation Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$71K/yr

Leads or collaborates on scientific analyses, technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, and other scholarly products that advance wildlife conservation and the Zoo's conservation programs. 17.

CA Conservation Corps

Conservationist 1

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$3.4K - $5.7K/mo

Then the California Conservation Corps (CCC) has the job for you! The CCC is a dynamic organization committed to developing young adults by challenging them to complete a year of public service and ...

Nsw Corp

Regional Conservation Officer - BCT

Orange, CA · Hybrid

$112K - $124K/yr

Conservation, Education, Environmental Science Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW? Working to protect the state's environment and heritage. * Regional Conservation Officer ...

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All JobsConservation Scientist JobsConservation Scientist Jobs in California

Conservation Scientist information

See California salary details

$78K

$87.8K

$93.8K

How much do conservation scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation scientist in California is $87,801.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,400.00 and $92,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a conservation scientist?

A conservation scientist works with natural resources and the environment in a wide range of industries, including forestry, soil management, and agriculture. As a conservation scientist, your job duties typically include collecting and analyzing data, working closely with landowners, foresters, and government agencies, and developing detailed reports on your findings. Conservation scientists spend time working in the field and an office, and play a pivotal role in determining proper land use and managing resources to prevent damage to the environment.

What types of organizations typically employ conservation scientists, and how does the work environment differ among them?

Conservation Scientists are employed by a range of organizations, including government agencies, non-profit environmental groups, consulting firms, and private land management companies. The work environment can vary significantly; for example, government roles often involve fieldwork in public forests or rangelands and collaboration with other agencies, while non-profits may focus more on advocacy, community outreach, and research projects. Consulting positions might require balancing multiple clients and conducting environmental assessments for land development projects. Regardless of the setting, most Conservation Scientists split their time between outdoor fieldwork and office-based data analysis and reporting.

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

To thrive as a Conservation Scientist, you need a strong background in environmental science, ecology, and resource management, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, remote sensing tools, and data analysis systems is commonly required, along with relevant certifications such as Certified Ecologist. Outstanding communication, problem-solving skills, and collaboration are crucial for working with diverse stakeholders and conveying scientific findings effectively. These competencies are essential for developing and implementing conservation strategies that protect ecosystems and ensure sustainable resource use.

What is the difference between Conservation Scientist vs Environmental Scientist?

AspectConservation ScientistEnvironmental Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in environmental science, forestry, or related field; often requires knowledge of conservation practicesBachelor's or master's in environmental science, biology, or related field; broader focus on environmental issues
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in forests, parks, and protected areas; some office work for planning and researchFieldwork, laboratory, and office settings; diverse environments depending on projects
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, conservation organizations, parks, and forestry servicesGovernment agencies, environmental consulting firms, research institutions, NGOs

Conservation Scientists focus on managing and protecting natural resources, often working directly in the field to implement conservation strategies. Environmental Scientists have a broader scope, addressing various environmental issues through research, policy, and fieldwork. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their specific focus and work environments.

Are conservation scientists in demand?

Conservation scientists are in demand due to increasing environmental concerns and the need for sustainable resource management. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as governments and organizations prioritize conservation efforts and environmental policies, often requiring skills in data collection, analysis, and environmental regulations.

Do I need a degree to become a conservation scientist?

A conservation scientist typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, ecology, or a related field. Advanced positions or specialized roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with skills in data analysis, fieldwork, and environmental regulations.

What do you do as a conservation scientist?

A conservation scientist studies and develops strategies to protect natural resources, ecosystems, and wildlife. They conduct field research, analyze data, and collaborate with government agencies or organizations to implement conservation plans, often using tools like GIS and requiring knowledge of environmental policies. Their work typically involves fieldwork, data collection, and reporting to support sustainable environmental practices.
More about Conservation Scientist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation Scientist jobs in California?

The most popular types of Conservation Scientist jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Conservation Scientist jobs in California?

For Conservation Scientist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Conservation Scientist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Conservation Scientist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Conservation Scientist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Conservation Scientist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Conservation Scientist jobs in CA?

For Conservation Scientist jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Conservation Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation Scientist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,801 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Marine Mammal Conservation Medicine Specialist

H & R Computer Consulting Services

La Jolla, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Benefits:

401(k)

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Paid time off

Title - Marine Mammal Conservation Medicine Specialist Client - NOAA Location: Silver Spring, MD / Hybrid Employment Type: Contract

Position Summary

Support NOAA’s Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program (MMHSRP) through conservation-medicine projects, emergency response, scientific research, technical writing, training, and program coordination. The role combines marine wildlife health science with field response, data, policy, and communications.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and edit technical reports, memoranda, guidance, fact sheets, and training materials.

Support website updates and communications related to marine mammal health and stranding response.

Assist Unusual Mortality Event (UME) investigations, including research, data review, reports, and closure packages.

Support Deepwater Horizon restoration planning and project implementation.

Contribute to MMHMAP and related database projects, including planning and testing.

Support meetings, workshops, case reviews, and technical program reviews.

Assist with marine mammal health assessments, emergency responses, stranding activities, and necropsies.

Provide technical writing, editing, training, and program support across MMHSRP projects.

Required Qualifications

Experience in marine mammal health, wildlife health, conservation medicine, stranding response, or a related scientific field.

Strong scientific/technical writing, editing, research, and communication skills.

Ability to support health assessments, emergency response, or necropsy activities as assigned.

Ability to work effectively with scientific, technical, and program stakeholders.

Must be eligible to work in the U.S. and obtain required credentials.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with MMHSRP, UMEs, stranding networks, marine mammal pathology, or wildlife emergency response.

Experience developing scientific training, guidance, or public-facing materials.

Experience supporting marine mammal conservation or restoration programs

This is a remote position.

Apply