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Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ecosystem Services Exchange

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Conservation Drainage Specialist

Des Moines, IA · Remote

$50K - $100K/yr

ESE is seeking a motivated Conservation Drainage Specialist to join our technical team and help expand the adoption of conservation drainage practices across the Upper Mississippi River and Great ...

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Ecosystem Services Exchange

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Conservation Drainage Specialist

Ames, IA · Remote

$50K - $100K/yr

ESE is seeking a motivated Conservation Drainage Specialist to join our technical team and help expand the adoption of conservation drainage practices across the Upper Mississippi River and Great ...

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CA Conservation Corps

Conservationist II

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$5.4K - $6.7K/mo

The California Conservation Corps (CCC) is seeking a dedicated Conservationist 2 (PSCW) to lead, mentor, and inspire Corpsmembers while coordinating vital public service conservation projects ...

American Conservation Experience

$17.50 - $19/hr

American Conservation Experience (ACE) is a dynamic non-profit organization dedicated to providing rewarding environmental service opportunities that harness the idealism and energy of a volunteer ...

CA Conservation Corps

Conservationist 1

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$3.4K - $5.7K/mo

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 ...

CA Conservation Corps

Conservationist 1

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$3.4K - $5.7K/mo

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 ...

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Conservation information

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$32K

$36.9K

$42K

How much do conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation in the United States is $36,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,500.00 and $38,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are conservation jobs?

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.

Are conservation jobs in demand?

Conservation jobs are generally in demand due to increasing environmental awareness and government funding for ecological projects. Careers in this field often require knowledge of ecology, environmental science, and relevant certifications, with opportunities available in government agencies, non-profits, and research institutions.

What Are Conservation Jobs?

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 careers in conservation?

Careers in conservation involve protecting and managing natural resources, wildlife, and ecosystems. Common roles include conservation scientist, park ranger, environmental educator, and wildlife biologist, often requiring knowledge of ecology, fieldwork skills, and relevant certifications. These jobs typically involve outdoor work and collaboration with government agencies, NGOs, or research institutions.

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 highest paying conservation jobs?

High-paying conservation jobs include roles such as environmental managers, conservation directors, and senior wildlife biologists, often requiring advanced degrees and specialized skills. These positions typically offer higher salaries due to leadership responsibilities, technical expertise, and the need for extensive experience in environmental policy, research, or management.

What jobs can you do in conservation?

Conservation offers a variety of jobs including conservation scientist, wildlife biologist, park ranger, environmental educator, and habitat restoration specialist. These roles often require knowledge of ecology, fieldwork skills, and sometimes certifications such as GIS or environmental management. They typically involve working outdoors or in research settings to protect natural resources and ecosystems.

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 cities are hiring for Conservation jobs? Cities with the most Conservation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation jobs? The most popular types of Conservation jobs are:
What states have the most Conservation jobs? States with the most job openings for Conservation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Conservation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Conservation jobs are:
Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,939 per year, or $17.8 per hour.
Conservation Drainage Specialist

Conservation Drainage Specialist

Ecosystem Services Exchange

Des Moines, IA • Remote

$50K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

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Job description

ESE is seeking a motivated Conservation Drainage Specialist to join our technical team and help expand the adoption of conservation drainage practices across the Upper Mississippi River and Great Lakes Basins. This is a technically-focused role ideal for a person who enjoys a combination of office and field work. This Specialist will collaborate with other technical specialists, producers, and contractors to plan, design, and help install conservation drainage practices to make a measurable impact on water quality and agricultural resilience for environmental improvement and economic health.

About the Role

Operating from your home in Iowa, you will work on plans and designs for conservation drainage practices. You also will spend time in the field for data collection to support plans and designs and oversee practice installation, with a heavy focus in Illinois, Iowa, and Minnesota. Your work with producers and contractors is concentrated on drainage water management (manual & automated), denitrifying bioreactors, saturated buffers, and phosphorus removal systems. As a technical specialist, you will coordinate with contractors, oversee construction activities, and ensure installations meet ESE’s design specifications and cost parameters. All work is to be of high quality, with careful attention to detail and accuracy. The position reports to ESE’s Technical Services Manager and is a member of a geographically distributed team.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct remote site assessments and in-field site investigations and engineering surveys. • Plan, design, and complete field layout for practice installation. • Coordinate and manage land improvement contractors for efficient, cost-effective installation. • Oversee construction, provide guidance, and perform checkout to verify compliance with design/practice standards. • Manage workload and scheduling to maximize office and field work efficiency and to minimize travel time.

Qualifications

• Relevant coursework in agriculture, conservation, ecological sciences, engineering, mathematics, or related fields. • Minimum two years of experience with engineering surveys, field layout, and construction oversight. • Proficiency with GPS, total stations, and laser levels; experience with GIS and CAD software is preferred. • Experience working directly in agricultural and/or construction settings. • Knowledge of Midwest agricultural systems, operations, and drainage design and installation. • Effective communication skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office. • Valid Iowa driver’s license and reliable personal vehicle suitable for use to perform position responsibilities.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary commensurate with experience and demonstrated proficiency. • Health, life, short- and long-term disability insurance; workers compensation; SIMPLE-IRA. • Paid vacation (increasing with years of service), sick leave, and seven paid holidays. • Travel in Iowa and to nearby Midwest states as needed, with expenses covered by ESE consistent with its policy.

Why Join ESE?

You’ll be part of a mission-driven team advancing practical, science-based solutions that improve water quality and support resilient agricultural landscapes. This role offers independent work, collaboration with team members for advice and counsel, and the opportunity to help scale conservation drainage adoption by producers across the Midwest.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please submit your resume no later than July 31, 2026. In your transmittal email, please include a paragraph or two describing why this position appeals to you and why you would be a strong candidate for consideration by ESE.

Company Description

Ecosystem Services Exchange helping industries turn environmental challenges into profitable, real-world solutions. We combine purpose-driven work with strong earning potential, offering employees the chance to grow their careers while making a measurable impact on how businesses manage resources, reduce waste, and improve efficiency.