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Director Of Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Are you passionate about inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders and creating ... The Director of Education serves as a key contributor to exhibit development, conservation ...

In partnership with the Executive Director, Senior Director of Conservation Action Centers, CT NY, other Audubon CT/NY staff, and Audubon Development staff, the Sharon Center Director will be ...

$135 - $165/hr

Expanding a national network of practitionersIncreasing visibility and influence across the sector You are not just managing programs. You are engineering a movement . What You'll Do * Lead ...

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Director Of Conservation information

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$23.5K

$79.7K

$161K

How much do director of conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of conservation in the United States is $79,672.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $89,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of conservation?

To thrive as a Director of Conservation, you typically need a background in environmental science, ecology, or a related field, often with an advanced degree and substantial management experience. Familiarity with GIS software, conservation planning tools, grant writing, and regulatory compliance is crucial. Outstanding leadership, strategic communication, and stakeholder engagement skills set top candidates apart. These competencies are vital for developing effective conservation strategies, securing funding, and building partnerships that drive organizational impact.

What are the common challenges faced by a director of conservation when managing multiple projects across different ecosystems?

A Director of Conservation often manages projects that span diverse ecosystems, each with unique environmental and stakeholder needs. Balancing limited resources, setting priorities, and ensuring effective communication across multidisciplinary teams can be challenging. Additionally, aligning project goals with broader organizational strategies and adapting to changing regulations or funding landscapes requires flexibility and strong leadership. Building effective partnerships with local communities and policymakers is also essential to overcome obstacles and achieve long-term conservation outcomes.

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

AspectDirector Of ConservationConservation Program Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees overall conservation strategies, policy development, and organizational goalsManages specific conservation projects, coordinates teams, and implements programs
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in environmental science, ecology, or related field; often includes certifications in conservation or environmental managementUsually requires a bachelor's degree in environmental science or related field; certifications may be beneficial
Work EnvironmentExecutive-level setting, often in nonprofit or governmental organizationsOperational setting, working directly on projects within conservation organizations or agencies

The Director Of Conservation focuses on strategic leadership and organizational oversight, while the Conservation Program Manager handles day-to-day project management. Both roles require relevant environmental credentials, but the director's role is broader and more strategic.

What does a director of conservation do?

A director of conservation oversees programs and strategies to protect natural resources, wildlife, and ecosystems. They develop policies, manage teams, secure funding, and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure environmental sustainability and compliance with regulations.
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Cities with the most Director Of Conservation job openings:

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What states have the most Director Of Conservation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Director Of Conservation jobs include:

Infographic showing various Director Of Conservation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,672 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Director of Education

EmergencyMD

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Are you passionate about inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders and creating meaningful educational experiences that make a difference? The Indianapolis Zoo is seeking an innovative and collaborative Director of Education to lead the development and implementation of education initiatives that advance our mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world.


About the Role

The Director of Education provides strategic leadership for a multidisciplinary team responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs that serve guests of all ages both on and off Zoo grounds. This position works collaboratively across departments to create engaging conservation messaging, strengthen community partnerships, and support institutional goals related to education, attendance, revenue, and guest engagement.


The Director of Education serves as a key contributor to exhibit development, conservation communications, and strategic initiatives including the Indianapolis Prize and the Zoo's conservation efforts. This is a full-time position that typically works Monday through Friday, with occasional evenings and weekends required to support programs, events, and organizational needs.


Key Responsibilities
  • Evaluate programs to fully assess impact against education goals and objectives
  • Provide strategic leadership for all education programs and initiatives that advance the Zoo's mission and institutional goals.
  • Build relationships with schools and community youth-based organizations.
  • Develop and evaluate innovative educational experiences that inspire conservation action and enhance guest engagement.
  • Collaborate with Zoo departments to develop exhibit messaging, conservation communications, and animal ambassador programming.
  • Oversee departmental budgets, business planning, attendance goals, and revenue objectives.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop Education Department staff, volunteers, and Naturalist program participants.
  • Develop strategic partnerships that advance the Zoo's education and conservation initiatives.
  • Assist multiple departments as needed with conservation communications efforts of the Zoo, including organizing lectures for visiting conservationists, curating conservation messaging throughout the Zoo, and engaging with members of the Global Center for Species Survival to further our conservation messaging to the public. The Director of Education will also participate in the conservation grant review process.
  • Assist with grant writing, administration, and fundraising efforts supporting education programs and initiatives.
  • Represent the Zoo through community engagement, professional organizations, and educational partnerships.

What We're Looking For
  • Bachelor's degree in Education, Science, or a related field from an accredited college or university required; Master's degree or PhD strongly preferred.
  • Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience required, with ten (10) years preferred in education, conservation, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience supervising and developing high-performing teams.
  • Proven success managing budgets, achieving organizational goals, and overseeing strategic initiatives.
  • Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills with the ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
  • Demonstrated experience building collaborative partnerships and managing multiple complex projects simultaneously.
  • Grant writing and grant administration experience preferred.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and related technology.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends as needed.

Why Join Us?

Working alongside passionate professionals across the organization, you'll help advance meaningful conservation initiatives, strengthen community partnerships, and inspire others to protect nature and care for our world.

Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.

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