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Director Conservation Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Program, State Administrative Rules NR 151 & ATCP 50 and the Waupaca County Code of Ordinances Chapter 51. This position works under the direct supervision of the County Conservationist. Essential ...

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Director Conservation Program information

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$29.5K

$78.2K

$137K

How much do director conservation program jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for director conservation program in the United States is $78,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Director of Conservation Program, you need expertise in natural resource management, conservation science, and program leadership, typically supported by an advanced degree in environmental science or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, data analysis tools, grant management systems, and relevant certifications (such as PMP or CSM) is often expected. Exceptional communication, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning skills set outstanding candidates apart. These competencies are crucial to effectively lead conservation initiatives, secure funding, and foster partnerships that drive program success.

How does a Director of Conservation Program typically collaborate with other organizations and stakeholders?

Directors of Conservation Programs frequently work in partnership with government agencies, non-profit organizations, community groups, and sometimes private sector stakeholders. Collaboration often involves coordinating joint initiatives, aligning conservation goals, and securing funding or resources for shared projects. Successful directors excel at building relationships, facilitating stakeholder meetings, and navigating diverse perspectives to achieve conservation outcomes. These collaborations are essential for expanding program impact and ensuring long-term sustainability of conservation efforts.

What does a Director of Conservation Program do?

A Director of Conservation Program oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of conservation initiatives within an organization. They are responsible for developing strategies to protect natural resources, managing teams and budgets, collaborating with stakeholders, and ensuring projects align with the organization’s mission. This role often involves fundraising, public outreach, and representing the organization in policy discussions or partnerships to advance conservation goals.

What is the difference between Director Conservation Program vs Conservation Manager?

AspectDirector Conservation ProgramConservation Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple projects, strategic planning, and high-level program developmentManages specific projects, implements strategies, and supervises staff
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in environmental science, conservation, or related field; extensive experienceBachelor's degree; experience in conservation or environmental management
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in NGOs, government agencies, or conservation organizationsFieldwork, project sites, and office settings within similar organizations

The Director Conservation Program typically holds a higher strategic and leadership role, overseeing multiple projects and setting organizational goals. In contrast, the Conservation Manager focuses on executing specific projects and managing teams. Both roles require relevant environmental credentials and experience, but the director's scope is broader and more strategic.

What cities are hiring for Director Conservation Program jobs? Cities with the most Director Conservation Program job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation Program jobs? The most popular types of Conservation Program jobs are:
What states have the most Director Conservation Program jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Conservation Program jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Director Conservation Program jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Director Conservation Program jobs are:
Infographic showing various Director Conservation Program job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $78,196 per year, or $37.6 per hour.
Conservation Technician

$31.60 - $34.39/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Summary As a function of the Waupaca County Land and Water Conservation Department, this position provides engineering assistance to install conservation best management practices, assists with watershed plan implementation related to Nine Key Element Watershed Plans and Targeted Runoff Management Grants, supports adaptation of nutrient management planning, conservation tillage and cover crops as well as keeping landowners in compliance with the Farmland Preservation Program, State Administrative Rules NR 151 & ATCP 50 and the Waupaca County Code of Ordinances Chapter 51. This position works under the direct supervision of the County Conservationist. Essential Responsibilities Depending on the operational needs of the department, the individual in this position may be responsible for some or all of the following: Communicates with landowners, farmers, riparian owners and contractors to plan and implement conservation practices.

Conducts topographic and bench-level surveys using Trimble equipment, laser levels, and other surveying tools. Designs engineering plansusing AutoCAD Civil 3D and/or ESRI ARCGIS products. Assist other staff with surveys, designs and construction of best management practices as needed.

Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with farmers, landowners and cooperating agency staff. Conducts detailed land use inventories for compliance with various County and State programs. Acquire and maintain WDATCP and USDA-NRCS engineering approvals.

Conducts Information and Education events as needed. Assist riparian owners or lake groups with shoreline improvement practices. Assist with grant writing and implementation of DNR Targeted Runoff Management Grants.

Assist with implementation of Waupaca County's Farmland Preservation Program Provide nutrient management planning assistance to landowners. Assist other staff with nutrient management plan review for state and county program requirements. Assist farm operators with the implementation of cover crops, reduced tillage or other management practices.

Maintain accurate records of engineering plans, cost share agreements, watershed planning processes, Farmland Preservation participants, nutrient management plans and SnapPlus files submitted to the County and reports information to DATCP, DNR, NRCS, and other partner agencies as needed. PERIPHERAL RESPONSIBILITIES: Conduct water quality testing for nitrates, phosphorous, suspended solids and stream base flow. Attend appropriate continuing education courses to maintain certifications.

As directed attends and contributes to various county committee functions. Performs other duties as assigned. Qualifications EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in GIS, Agronomy, Engineering, Natural Resource Management, Soil Science, Watershed Management, or a related field of study.

EXPERIENCE: Minimum of two years of current working experience as a conservation/engineering technician or agronomy related position with knowledge of nutrient management, SNAP+, conservation tillage, residue management, and working experience with ESRI ArcGIS products preferred. A combination or training and direct experience SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Obtain ongoingDATCP and NRCS job certification. Establish proficiencyin ESRI ACRGIS software.

Mustmaintain a valid driver's license. Familiarity with operation of adrone or acquire a UA license. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Ability to assess need and understand the design and construction of soil and water conservation Best Management Practices.

Possess a strong background and experience with ArcGIS. Demonstrate the ability to perform spatial analysis under minimum supervision. Working knowledge of general engineering principles Working knowledge of layout, construction and certification of soil and water conservation practices.

Working knowledge of AutoCAD, Excel, MS Word, Autodesk Civil 3-D or the ability to learn within a reasonable time frame. Ability to create complex documents using Microsoft Word, Excel or Access Ability to interpret air photos and legal descriptions. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. Ability to solve complex problems and develop solutions. Ability to work under pressure and manage stressful situations.

Ability to maintain appropriate confidentiality. Ability to read, understand and interpret NRCS standards and Wisconsin administrative rules.