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Conservation Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Conservationist 1

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$3K - $5K/mo

... on conservation work, emergency response, and personal development. At our Sacramento Center, you ... Working Conditions The reporting location for this position is at 570 Bercut Dr, Sacramento, CA ...

$17.50 - $19/hr

Conservation Crew Leader Location: This position is based out of Sacramento, Ridgecrest, or ... Working knowledge of young adult development, team-building and motivational techniques.

$17.50 - $19/hr

Conservation Crew Leader - Backcountry Trails Location: This position is based out of Sacramento ... Required Experience and Qualifications: * 6 months - 1 year of experience working in field ...

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Conservation Worker information

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$5

$24

$35

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.

What states have the most Conservation Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Conservation Worker jobs include:

Conservationist 1

CA Conservation Corps

Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

$3K - $5K/mo

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Step into Leadership at the Sacramento Center as a Conservationist 1.
The Conservationist 1 (C1) plays a key role in guiding and mentoring young adults through hands-on conservation work, emergency response, and personal development. At our Sacramento Center, you won't just supervise crews, you'll shape futures.
As a C1, you will lead project planning and execution across a range of natural resource assignments, ensuring safety, quality, and Corpsmember growth every step of the way. You will collaborate with partner agencies, support training and onboarding, and help Corpsmembers build the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the field and beyond.
What makes Sacramento stand out? Our center culture is built on trust, transparency, and teamwork. We take pride in clear communication, strong morale, and a shared commitment to equity and excellence. Whether you're stepping into your first leadership role or bringing years of experience, you will find a supportive environment that values your voice and empowers your leadership.
If you're ready to lead with purpose and be part of a center that invests in people as much as projects, Sacramento is calling.
How did you hear about this position? Tell us in this brief survey .
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
The reporting location for this position is at 570 Bercut Dr, Sacramento, CA 95811, USA
Will be required to work indoors and outdoors, in inclement weather; will be working in public view.
Typical Schedule would be 4/10s Mon-Thur., swing shift. Will be required to work some weekends and could be gone on spike or emergencies for up to 21 days.
This position is classified as "In Office" and is not eligible for telework.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • CONSERVATIONIST I
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-520403
Position #(s):
533-651-1029-XXX
Working Title:
Conservationist 1
Classification:
CONSERVATIONIST I $3,441.00 - $4,396.00 A
$4,420.00 - $5,741.00 B
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information
  • Do you want to make a positive, significant difference in the lives of citizens in communities throughout California?
  • Do you want to directly improve the lives of citizens in the State of California through the implementation of vital environmental restoration projects?
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 conservation-related work. Employees of the CCC are leaders who inspire, educate and challenge young people to further their educational and professional goals.
If you are looking to work for a state department that demands excellence, inspires staff to do their best and protects and enhances the state's environment, we invite you to apply for a position with the California Conservation Corps, the finest youth Environmental Restoration, Education, Workforce Development program in the world.
Career Consultation
California Conservation Corps is excited to take part in the first agency-wide collaborative physical career center. The career center is located in the heart of Downtown Sacramento in the brand new CNRA headquarters building. Services provided include one-on-one career consultations, application/resume review, career guidance, mock interviews, and tips for applying.
Days: Open every Tuesday and Thursday (except state holidays)
Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Address: Poppy Pavilion, 715 P Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
Department Website: http://www.ccc.ca.gov
Special Requirements
โ€ข Commercial Driver License - Provide evidence that a Commercial Class C license with a Passenger Transport Vehicle special endorsement, or equivalent, has been obtained from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
โ€ข Pre-employment Drug Test - Pass a urine drug test. In accordance with the Federal Highway Administration regulations (49 CFR, Part 382), persons hired to a class requiring a commercial driver license must take and pass a pre-employment drug test. Please note: Per California Code of Regulations 213.5, applicants who fail the drug test pursuant to section 213.4 (h), will be disqualified from the examination in which they are competing and, except as provided by section 213.5 (e), shall not be eligible to take any State civil service examination for a class for which drug testing is required until one year has elapsed from the date the drug test specimen is given.
โ€ข Background Investigation - Undergo fingerprinting and successfully pass a Criminal Offender Record Information check completed by the Department of Justice (DOJ) which may or may not also include a background check through the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI).
โ€ข Medical Exam - a medical clearance examination is required for this classification.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 6/17/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.
Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
CA Conservation Corps
Hiring Desk Analyst
Attn: Hiring Desk
1719 24th Street
Sacramento , CA 95816
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
CA Conservation Corps
Hiring Desk Analyst
Hiring Desk
1719 24th Street
Sacramento , CA 95816
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
Coaching and/or Mentoring experience; Electrical, or general construction, experience; ability to prioritize deadlines; proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; Leadership skills Experience in natural resource management, education, or youth development, Strong communication skills, Ability to work outdoors in various conditions
Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the application process. The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position.
Department Website: http://www.ccc.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact:
Hiring Desk
(916) 341-3221
careers@ccc.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Juan Muy
(916) 341-3130
Juan.Muy@CCC.CA.GOV
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Karen Chesmore
(916) 341-3196
EEO@ccc.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Eligibility Information
In order to be considered for the job vacancy you must satisfy one of the following requirements:
  • List Eligibility - Successfully complete the civil service exam for classification Conservationist I NOTE: Please refer to the exam bulletin for the frequency of administration of this exam.
  • Transfer Eligibility - Must have current employment with the State of California in the same classification or in a classification that is comparable. If in a different classification, you must meet the minimum qualifications (see Minimum Qualifications section and associated links above).
  • Reinstatement Eligibility - Previously obtained permanent employment with the State of California in the same classification or in a classification that is comparable. If in a different classification, you must meet the minimum qualifications (see Minimum Qualifications section and associated links above.
  • Training & Development (T&D) Assignment - State employees in a permanent appointment, and no longer on probation, may be considered for a T&D assignment.

  • Resources
    Salary Information: Effective July 1, 2025, the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) implemented the temporary Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025). PLP 2025 directs that each employee receives a temporary reduction in pay in exchange for PLP 2025 leave credits. The temporary salary reduction percentage and the number of PLP 2025 leave credits are based on the position's associated bargaining unit. The salary range(s) included in this job advertisement do not include the temporary salary reduction.
    Limited Examination and Appointment Program (LEAP)
    CCC encourages people with disabilities to apply for jobs with us. The Limited Examination and Appointment Program (LEAP) can help people with disabilities get jobs with the State of California. It is an alternative to the regular civil service exam for a job. Using LEAP is optional. Learn more about LEAP and find available exams on CalHR's LEAP page .
    Veterans' Preference
    Veterans' Preference is an assistance program for military benefits who seek employment with the state. Preference can be applied to a veteran's eligibility for qualifying open and open, non-promotional examinations. To learn more about Veterans' Preference visit CalHR's Veteran's Preference page.
    Non Electronic Submissions
    If applying by postal mail or in-person drop off, please indicate RPA #25-0245 / JC-520403 in the job title section of your State application.
    Equal Opportunity Employer
    The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
    It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.