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Conservation Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Nestle

Canister Line Operator

Waverly, IA · On-site

$29.61/hr

The position will support the continual improvement of energy conservation, solid waste minimization and management, and prevention of pollution within the scope of the position and throughout the ...

Nestle

Line 20 Packaging Operator

Waverly, IA · On-site

$29.61/hr

The position will support the continual improvement of energy conservation, solid waste minimization and management, and prevention of pollution within the scope of the position and throughout the ...

All JobsConservation JobsConservation Jobs in Waterloo, IA

Conservation information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$31.6K

$36.4K

$41.4K

How much do conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation in Waterloo, IA is $36,423.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $37,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a conservation job?

Conservation jobs are roles focused on protecting, managing, and restoring natural environments, wildlife, and resources. These professionals work in various settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, parks, research institutions, and private companies. Common positions include conservation scientists, wildlife biologists, park rangers, and environmental educators. The goal of conservation work is to ensure the long-term sustainability and health of ecosystems and biodiversity. Conservation jobs often involve fieldwork, research, policy development, and community outreach.

What is the difference between Conservation vs Environmental Technician?

AspectConservationEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in environmental science, ecology, or related fieldOften requires an associate's or bachelor's degree in environmental science or related area
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in natural settings, conservation projects, parks, and wildlife areasField and laboratory work, environmental monitoring, site assessments
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, conservation organizations, parks, wildlife agenciesEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions

Conservation focuses on protecting natural resources and ecosystems through active management and preservation efforts, often involving fieldwork in natural settings. Environmental Technicians support environmental monitoring and assessment tasks, working in both field and lab environments. While both roles require related environmental credentials and may work in similar settings, Conservation emphasizes ecosystem preservation, whereas Environmental Technicians focus on data collection and environmental testing.

What is a conservation job?

Conservation jobs focus on managing and protecting natural land and wildlife. Your duties as a conservationist depend on your area of specialization. Naturalists or animal biologists, for example, may study endangered species and work to protect them from extinction. Other conservation professionals may manage land and monitor animal populations in nature reserves. You can also work in conservation lobbying or organize education programs for a conservation NGO. You can even work as a conservation officer, a career in which your responsibilities involve enforcing laws meant to protect natural lands and wildlife. This type of career could include park ranger positions or natural resources officer jobs.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in conservation roles, and how are they addressed within teams?

Conservation professionals often encounter challenges such as securing sustainable funding, balancing the needs of communities and ecosystems, and adapting to changing environmental regulations. These issues are typically addressed through close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, including scientists, policymakers, and local stakeholders. Regular team meetings, clear communication, and adaptive project management are essential to navigating these complexities and achieving conservation goals effectively.

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

To thrive as a Conservationist, you need a background in environmental science, ecology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, environmental monitoring tools, and sometimes certifications like Certified Conservation Professional (CCP) are commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills are crucial for engaging stakeholders and advancing conservation goals. These abilities ensure effective management of natural resources and successful implementation of conservation projects.
More about Conservation jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation jobs in Waterloo, IA? The most popular types of Conservation jobs in Waterloo, IA are:
What job categories do people searching Conservation jobs in Waterloo, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Conservation jobs in Waterloo, IA are:
What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Conservation jobs? Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Conservation job openings:
Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation job openings in Waterloo, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,423 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Wildlife Management Specialist

Pheasants Forever Inc

Parkersburg, IA • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Work Location:
Iowa DNR Big Marsh Wildlife Management Area (Butler County)
20351 270th St, Parkersburg, IA 50665
Application deadline: August 5, 2026
Salary: $17.00 per hour
Typical Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. - 40 hours per week
Anticipated Start Date: 2-4 weeks post successful job offer
End Date: One year from start date
These positions may be extended for an additional year pending funding and job performance.
If the positions are extended, the candidates may be reassigned to another wildlife unit in Iowa.
JOB DESCRIPTION: This position is part of a partnership between Pheasants Forever and Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Under the daily direction of Iowa DNR staff, the incumbent will conduct habitat management work on public wildlife areas.The PF Wildlife Management Specialist is expected to perform a variety of semi-skilled maintenance and technical tasks at a wildlife management unit. The employee is expected to display a high level of initiative and commitment towards completing assignments efficiently. The employee in this position will work with other wildlife unit personnel and be under the general direction of the Wildlife Biologist. The job duties of this position include general wildlife management activities on State owned and managed wildlife areas within the assigned unit counties. Overnight travel will occasionally be required on special projects outside of the assigned unit counties.
Examples of typical job duties may include:
  • Perform general wildlife management activities including: Wetland management, prairie management, native prairie seeding, food plot development, edge feathering, tree/brush removal, spraying, disking, mowing, etc. using large farm machinery, chainsaws, and other hand tools.
  • Prescribed fire implementation for ecological purposes. This duty will require fire-line construction, fire-line holding, and mop-up activities. Performance of these tasks will require the employee to periodically work under physically stressful and adverse conditions. Proficiency in the use of basic wildland firefighting equipment will be needed.
  • Wildlife Surveys & Monitoring including: Waterfowl banding, deer spotlight routes, August roadside surveys, spring bird point counts, fall quail covey counts, chronic wasting disease sampling, etc. Collecting of biological data occasionally will require early or late in the day work scheduling.
  • General area maintenance involving mowing, sign posting, fence building, fence removal, tree/brush control, noxious weed control etc. These activities require the ability to use simple power equipment; drills, saws, hand tools, chain saws, trimmers, small mowers etc.
  • Special assignments may require some overnight travel as part of a crew, to accomplish large scale fence removal, fence building or tree removal projects outside of the assigned unit counties. These assignments will require the ability to work well with others, work out of doors under all types of weather conditions, and to withstand physically demanding work, i.e., lifting, bending and hauling.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • College graduate with a degree in wildlife biology, animal ecology, or another closely related natural resource field.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Able to travel on overnight duties.
  • Work with minimal supervision; demonstrate responsible behavior and attention to detail.
  • Must have a valid motor vehicle operator's license.
  • Able to work alone or as part of a team, with the public, in all conditions, on weekends, holidays, nights, and evenings as required.
  • Exhibit honesty and integrity. Follow policy and cooperate with supervisors and co-workers.
  • Display a high level of initiative, effort and commitment towards completing assignments efficiently.
CAREER ADVANCEMENT BENEFITS:
  • Proven pathway to full-time careers - this position has a strong track record of placement into permanent roles with DNR, Pheasants Forever, and other conservation organizations.
  • Build valuable, hands-on technical skills while working alongside experienced DNR professionals.
  • Grow your professional network and form lasting connections across the conservation field.
  • Gain real-world, outdoor experience doing meaningful, on-the-ground conservation work.
  • Experience a unique dual-agency role, with opportunities to engage in trainings, collaboration, and annual staff meetings with both DNR and Pheasants Forever.
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PACKAGE:
Pheasants Forever offers a competitive benefits package. Employee Benefit Package information can be found here:Employee Benefit Summary pdf
TO APPLY: Please combine your cover letter, resume and 3 references as a single Word document or PDF file before uploading as part of your application to our recruitment website at www.pheasantsforever.org/jobs.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Must possess or be able to acquire a pesticide applicator's license and S130-190 basic firefighter training certification, special requirements shall be met within 90 days of hire if not currently possessed. Successful applicant will also be encouraged to obtain Iowa DNR chainsaw safety certification and first aid & bloodborne pathogen training.
If you have additional questions, please contact Curt Kemmerer, NE District Supervisor, [email protected] or 563-357-2035.
Pheasants Forever, Inc is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with disability, or any other category that may be protected by law.

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