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Conservation Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water Conservation Specialist

Peoria, AZ · On-site

$81K - $96K/yr

Each day can be different, and working on a dynamic team leads to individual growth while ... water conservation programs, Sustainable U education, related city event staffing, data tracking ...

$21.69 - $28.53/hr

Establish and contribute to a supportive, creative, enthusiastic, and cooperative working ... conservation, and weed/invasive plant control work. * Specific knowledge of and experience ...

$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 ...

Conservation Director

Lander, WY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Working with the deputy director, develop annual work plans and programmatic goals on priority conservation issues, providing mentorship and professional development opportunities to your team.

Conservation Planner

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

The Conservation Planner advances Openlands' mission to protect and steward land, water, and ... working in the Chicago region or similar metropolitan areas Familiarity with GIS and spatial ...

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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 Jul 21, 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 careers in conservation?

Careers in conservation involve protecting natural resources, wildlife, and ecosystems through activities such as habitat restoration, environmental education, and research. Conservation workers often work outdoors, use tools like GPS and GIS, and may require certifications or training in environmental science or related fields.

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 jobs can you do in conservation?

Conservation workers can perform roles such as habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, park maintenance, and environmental education. These jobs often require outdoor work, physical activity, and knowledge of ecological practices, with certifications like First Aid or specialized training sometimes preferred.

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 is the highest paying job in conservation?

The highest paying jobs in conservation are often senior roles such as Conservation Director, Environmental Manager, or Chief Sustainability Officer, which typically require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills. These positions can offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually, especially in large organizations or corporations focused on environmental impact and sustainability initiatives.

What do conservation workers do?

Conservation workers perform tasks to protect and restore natural environments, such as planting trees, removing invasive species, maintaining trails, and monitoring wildlife. They often work outdoors in various weather conditions and may need knowledge of environmental science, safety procedures, and sometimes certifications like first aid or pesticide application.
What states have the most Conservation Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Conservation Worker jobs include:
Infographic showing various Conservation Worker 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 $51,396 per year, or $24.7 per hour.
Utilities Conservation Technician

Utilities Conservation Technician

City of Georgetown

Georgetown, TX • On-site

$25.84 - $32.37/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

New


Job description

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!
We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.
Performs a variety of technical and customer service functions to assist with the implementation of the Water Utility's conservation program; will conduct residential irrigation system checkups and assist customers with controller settings; performs inspections relative to water programs; assists with enforcement of City water ordinances; provides customer service support; and assists with violation cases.
Applicants are encouraged to attach a resume.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Communicates and interacts with public to promote an understanding of water conservation.
  • Conducts irrigation system audits, evaluating consumption data, recommending irrigation controller settings and suggesting more efficient water usage options.
  • Assists manager with review of projects; ensures new facilities are incorporated into existing programs, processes, and procedures.
  • Utilize software to assist in customer service support
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education, training and Experience Guidelines
Two (2) year of full-time experience related to automatic irrigation system design or installation. OR High school diploma or equivalent. OR Any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Knowledge of:
  • Water efficiency technologies, practices, programs and rebate requirements.
  • Safety practices and procedures.
  • Federal, State and Local water conservation laws, regulations, practices and techniques.

Skill in:
  • Communicating effectively, orally and in writing.
  • Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
  • Planning and goal setting.
  • Using computer and related software.
  • Implementing programs and related policies and procedures.
  • Making judgments pertaining to repair needs and supply needs.
  • Finding safe effective solutions to problems.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Valid Class "C" Texas driver's license required. Out-of-state license holders must have a valid license and provide a three-year driving history.
Licensed Irrigator certification or other irrigation certification from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, OR must obtain the required Irrigation Technician within two (2) months of selection to position AND Licensed Irrigator certification within one (1) year of selection to position.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT
Standing, sitting, walking, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, reaching, handling, fine dexterity, crouching, bending, vision, hearing, talking, use of foot controls.
Must be able to work night and weekend shifts
Hiring Range: $25.84 - $32.37, hourly.
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Regular-Full time
If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!