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Conservation Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A2

Temporary Conservation Worker II

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$19.15/hr

Good interpersonal skills, suitable for working with volunteers and the public at large * Ability to work with minimal direct field supervision * Basic computer skills Physical Requirements : The ...

ntmw

Conservation Specialist

Wylie, TX · On-site

Experience working with educators and/or teachers for in-person student interaction and programs ... water conservation best management practices, drought-tolerant landscaping and water efficient ...

CEHMM

Range Conservation Scientist

Carlsbad, NM

$58K - $90K/yr

Description Range Conservation Scientist CEHMM a 501(c)3 non-profit conservation and environmental ... Strong communication skills for working effectively with landowners, agencies, and partner ...

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How much do conservation worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for conservation worker in the United States is $24.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are conservation workers?

Conservation workers are professionals who help manage, improve, and protect natural resources such as forests, parks, rangelands, and other outdoor areas. Their duties often include planting trees, maintaining trails, controlling invasive species, preventing soil erosion, and assisting with wildlife habitats. They typically work under the supervision of conservation scientists or foresters and may be employed by government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or private landowners. Conservation workers play a crucial role in preserving ecosystems and ensuring that natural areas remain healthy and accessible for future generations.

What are some common challenges Conservation Workers face in the field, and how can they be addressed?

Conservation Workers often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, navigating remote or rugged terrain, and managing physically demanding tasks like planting, trail maintenance, or invasive species removal. To address these challenges, workers should be prepared with proper gear, maintain strong physical fitness, and follow rigorous safety protocols. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as projects are typically completed in groups, and collaboration ensures both efficiency and safety.

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

To thrive as a Conservation Worker, you need knowledge of natural resource management, physical fitness, and often a high school diploma or relevant fieldwork experience. Familiarity with GPS devices, power tools, and data collection systems is commonly required, and some positions may value certifications in first aid or pesticide application. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential for working effectively outdoors and collaborating with diverse groups. These abilities ensure safe, efficient conservation efforts and help protect natural habitats and resources.

What Is a Conservation Worker?

A conservation worker is a person who works to conserve natural habitats, such as national or state parks or wildlife preserves. In this job, your duties are to restore a physical environment, such as a national forest or coastal area, to a natural state and provide public education and outreach to increase awareness about conservation efforts. You may assist with monitoring tree health in forests or other natural habitats and apply land management strategies under the supervision of conservation technicians. Qualifications for the job include a mix of career experience, such as volunteer or summer work maintaining trails or parkland, and a high school education. Necessary skills include physical stamina and verbal communication.

What is the difference between Conservation Worker vs Environmental Technician?

AspectConservation WorkerEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications varyHigh school diploma; often additional certifications in environmental testing
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, fieldwork focused on natural habitatsIndoor and outdoor; environmental sampling and data collection
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, conservation organizationsEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for fieldwork and conservation rolesMore technical, data-focused roles

Conservation Workers primarily focus on outdoor conservation activities, habitat restoration, and manual labor, while Environmental Technicians often handle environmental testing, data collection, and analysis. Both roles support environmental protection but differ in technical requirements and work settings.

More about Conservation Worker jobs
What states have the most Conservation Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Conservation Worker jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Conservation Worker jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Conservation Worker jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Conservation Worker jobs? For Conservation Worker jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Conservation Worker jobs near you
CONSERVATION/HISTORIC PRESERVATION WORKER

CONSERVATION/HISTORIC PRESERVATION WORKER

State of Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$3K/mo

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

State Of Illinois rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 56206 
Opening Date: 05/18/2026
Closing Date: 06/02/2026
Agency: Department of Natural Resources
Site Name: Old State Capitol Historic Site
Class Title: CONSERVATION/HISTORIC PRSVTN WKR (09317) 
Skill Option: None 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Up to $3,404 monthly based on hours worked, $19.56 per hour anticipated starting salary.
Job Type: Hourly
Category: Full Time 
County: Sangamon
Number of Vacancies: 2
Bargaining Unit Code: None
Merit Comp Code: 

NOTE: THIS POSITION IS A TEMPORARY SEASONAL POSITION THAT WILL NOT EXCEED SIX MONTHS

Filling 2 Conservation Worker Positions

Anticipated Start Dates: 5/16/2026 

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

 

 

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

The Illinois Dept of Natural Resources is looking to hire Conservation/Historic Preservation Workers (CW's) to work at multiple locations throughout Illinois.   This Temporary seasonal position will not exceed six months.  Under immediate supervision, the CW's will perform routine maintenance and janitorial duties of site buildings and public use areas (such as: groundskeeping, cleaning of shelters, shower houses, and privies, and pick up and dispose of trash, litter, and debris).  They will operate and perform routine maintenance on equipment and vehicles (such as cleaning/repairing of hand tools, changing oil, fluids, filters, spark plugs, belts, etc.)  CW's will work to assist in habitat management and various hunting programs in addition to or in place of other duties.  Some CW's will be hired to do site interpretation in addition to or in place of other duties at select locations.   We welcome interested applicants who would like to be part of this team to apply today. 

Essential Functions
  • Under immediate supervision and on a temporary basis not to exceed 6 months, assists site staff in the maintenance of grounds to create clean, safe, and attractive public use areas during all weather conditions:
  • Performs routine housekeeping duties:
  • Assists Site Interpreters in delivering the site interpretive programs:
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to the completion of eight years of elementary school.
Conditions of Employment

All applicants must be able to meet the following Conditions of Employment, with or without reasonable accommodation, to be considered for this position. The State of Illinois complies with federal and state disability laws and will make reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities:

  • Requires completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history.
  • Must be at least 17 years of age or older and possess a valid driver's license.
  • Requires ability to travel in performance of duties, as needed.
  • Requires ability to stand for long period of time, climb stairs or ladders, stoop, bend, kneel and lift up to 60 lbs.
  • Requires ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays (if needed).
  • Requires ability to work in a primitive environment or outdoors and withstand exposure to the elements during inclement weather.
  • Requires ability to walk over rough or broken terrain. 

The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description. 

Agency and Division Statements

Agency Statement-
Charged with preserving, protecting and promoting Illinois natural and cultural resources, Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) employees oversee water, wildlife, wetlands, and oil wells, parks, historic sites- and everything in between.  Employment opportunities vary greatly, often providing employees the chance to work indoors and out in a dynamic yet relaxed environment.   Working for the State of Illinois, IDNR employees receive excellent benefits, including, vision health and dental insurance, a retirement plan and deferred compensation options: state holidays and other time off; as well as pre-tax benefit programs.

Office of Land Management-
The Office of Land Management (OLM) oversees nearly 400 individual parcels of land and institutes a wide variety of programs and activities advocating outdoor recreation through sustainable use, conservation, and preservation.  The Historic Sites Division of the Office of Land Management oversees 57 Historic Sites. Monuments and Memorials.  OLM facilitates activities from small group interpretive programming at Historical Sites: to hiking, hunting, fishing, boating, and camping.  

Work Hours: Variable
Headquarter Location: 1 N Old State Capitol Plz, Springfield, Illinois, 62701
Work County: Sangamon
Agency Contact: Valerie Streenz
Email: valerie.streenz@illinois.gov
Phone #: 217-785-2262
Posting Group: Environmental & Natural Resources

This position [DOES NOT] contain "Specialized Skills" (as that term is used in CBAs).

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the "Apply" button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees - a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the "View Profile" link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com - click "Application Procedures" in the footer of every page of the website.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your "junk mail", "spam", or "other" folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

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Get the full story on Breakroom

State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

Social media

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