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Conservation Scientist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Medical Laboratory Scientist Department: Laboratory Shift: Day Daily Work Times: 6:00 am - 6:30 pm ... 7. Conserves laboratory resources by using equipment and supplies as needed to accomplish job ...

Medical Laboratory Scientist Department: Laboratory Shift: Days Daily Work Times: 6:00 am - 6:30 pm ... 7. Conserves laboratory resources by using equipment and supplies as needed to accomplish job ...

Agricultural Science Tutor

Kalamazoo, MI ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... conservation. Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision agriculture techniques while preparing students for careers in agribusiness ...

Agricultural Science Tutor

Detroit, MI ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... conservation. Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision agriculture techniques while preparing students for careers in agribusiness ...

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Conservation Scientist information

See Michigan salary details

$68.9K

$77.5K

$82.8K

How much do conservation scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation scientist in Michigan is $77,542.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,600.00 and $81,900.00 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.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Conservation Scientist jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Conservation Scientist job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Conservation Scientist job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,542 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

SOIL CONSERVATIONIST (DISTRICT CONSERVATIONIST)

FSA, NRCS, RMA, FPAC Careers

Paw Paw, MI โ€ข On-site

$74K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

This position is located in the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), state, area, or field office within a designated state.
The incumbent assists the Conservation District(s) within the managerial unit in the development of a comprehensive natural resources conservation program. .
1 Vacancy - Scottville, MI
1 Vacancy - Marshall, MI
1 Vacancy - Paw Paw, MI
1 Vacancy - Frenchtown, NJ
1 Vacancy - Cambridge, MD or Salisbury, MD (location negotiable after selection)Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. If education is required or being used to qualify, you must submit a copy of your transcripts.
Basic Requirement: GS-0457:
Degree: Successful completion of a Soil conservation or related agricultural or natural resource discipline such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, agricultural education, or agricultural engineering. The study must have included 30 semester hours in a natural resource or agricultural field, including at least 12 semester hours in a combination of soils and crops or plant science. Of the 12 semester hours, a minimum of 3 semester hours must have been in soils and 3 semester hours in crops or plant science.
OR
Combination of education and experience: at least 30 semester hours in one or more of the disciplines as shown in A above, including at least 12 semester hours in a combination of soils and crops or plant science, plus appropriate experience or additional education. Of the 12 semester hours, a minimum of 3 semester hours must have been in soils and 3 semester hours in crops or plant science.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement, you must also possess experience and/or directly related education listed below.
Specialized Experience Requirement
For the GS-11 grade level: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 grade level in federal service or comparable experience not gained through federal service. The experience requires the knowledge of the principles and theories of soil and water conservation and related sciences such as biology, agronomy, and forestry, in identifying conservation related problems. Specialized experience can be defined as:
  • Providing technical guidance and assistance to groups and individuals on topics such as soil interpretations, erosion control measures, pest and invasive species control, water quality improvements, livestock management, wildlife habitat, and forest management.
  • Preparing conservation or resource management plans and providing financial or implementation assistance.
  • Communicating and sharing general information and explaining issues related to natural resource conservation, problems, and solutions to landowners, residents, and land managers.
OR
Education at the GS-11 grade level: Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree in a field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work of the position, such as: soil conservation or related agricultural or natural resource discipline such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, agricultural education, or agricultural engineering.
OR
Combination of Education and Experience: A combination of education and experience as listed above. A combination of graduate-level education and experience, as described above, may be used to qualify for this position. This combination must have equipped you with the necessary knowledge and/or experience to successfully perform the duties of this position. Combinations of experience and education must total at least 100% as outlined in OPM Qualifications policy.
For the GS-12 grade level: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level in federal service or comparable experience not gained through federal service. The experience requires the knowledge of the principles and theories of soil and water conservation and related sciences such as biology, agronomy, and forestry, in identifying conservation related problems. Specialized experience can be defined as:
  • Analyzing workloads, developing and implementing annual work or business plans, and establishing goals within the constraints of funding and staff availability.
  • Directing technical guidance and assistance to groups and individuals on topics such as soil interpretations, erosion control measures, pest and invasive species control, water quality improvements, livestock management, wildlife habitat, and forest management.
  • Preparing complex conservation or resource management plans and providing financial or implementation assistance.
  • Communicating and sharing technical information and explaining issues related to natural resource conservation, problems, and solutions to landowners, residents, and land managers.
  • Implementing and/or managing natural resources programs and practices which involve exercising initiative and resourcefulness.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Time-in-Grade Requirement: If you are a current federal employee in the General Schedule (GS) pay plan and applying for a promotion opportunity, you must meet time-in-grade (TIG) requirements of 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the position being filled. You must meet this requirement by the closing date of this announcement.Education:College Transcript: If qualifying based on education, you must submit a copy of your college transcript with course number and department (i.e., Bio 101, Math 210, etc.), course title, number of credit hours, and grade earned. If a relevant course is not clearly qualifying (e.g., special topic, seminar, research, thesis, obscure or misleading course title, etc.), please submit an official course syllabi and/or detailed course description from the university/college to ensure proper evaluation.
Your education must have been successfully obtained from an accredited school, college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to be credited toward qualifications. You may verify accreditation by visiting the U.S. Department of Education Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs website. We will verify your education accordingly.
Foreign Education: You must submit verification that education completed in a foreign institution, was recognized by an accreditation body accepted by the U.S. Department of Education. You must include a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript. There are private organizations that specialize in this evaluation and a fee is normally associated with this service. For a list of private organizations that evaluate education, visit the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) website. Your transcripts must be in English or include an English translation.
You may submit an unofficial copy of your transcript at the initial phase of the application process. However, if selected, you will be required to submit official transcripts prior to entering on duty. Please refer to the "How to Apply" section for instructions on submitting transcripts.Employment Type: OTHER