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Environment Conservation Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Des Plaines, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... environmental conservation. Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision agriculture techniques while preparing students for careers in ...

Varsity Tutors

Agricultural Science Tutor

Wheaton, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... environmental conservation. Ability to explain photosynthesis optimization, nutrient cycling, selective breeding, and precision agriculture techniques while preparing students for careers in ...

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All JobsEnvironment Conservation JobsEnvironment Conservation Jobs in Elgin, IL

Environment Conservation information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$31.6K

$36.5K

$41.5K

How much do environment conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for environment conservation in Elgin, IL is $36,514.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,100.00 and $37,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is environment conservation?

Environment conservation refers to the responsible management and protection of natural resources and ecosystems to ensure their sustainability for future generations. It involves activities like preserving wildlife habitats, reducing pollution, promoting recycling, and supporting sustainable land and water use. Environment conservation aims to balance human needs with the health of the planet, addressing issues such as climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss. Professionals in this field work in research, policy-making, education, and on-the-ground environmental restoration projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in environment conservation?

To thrive in environment conservation, you need a strong background in environmental science, ecology, or related fields, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS software, environmental monitoring tools, and certifications like Certified Environmental Professional (CEP) are typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help professionals engage communities and collaborate effectively. These skills and qualities are crucial for implementing sustainable solutions and driving impactful conservation initiatives.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in environment conservation, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in environment conservation often encounter challenges such as securing consistent funding, balancing stakeholder interests, and managing fieldwork in remote or challenging environments. Collaboration with government agencies, non-profits, and local communities is essential for overcoming these obstacles. Building strong communication skills and adaptability can help conservationists advocate effectively for their projects and navigate changing priorities. Continuous learning about new conservation methods and technologies also supports success and career growth in this field.

What is the difference between Environment Conservation vs Environmental Technician?

AspectEnvironment ConservationEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science, ecology, or related fieldAssociate's or bachelor's degree in environmental science, environmental technology, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, research sites, conservation projects, government agenciesFieldwork, laboratory work, environmental monitoring, site assessments
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, NGOs, conservation organizationsEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions

Environment Conservation focuses on protecting natural resources and developing sustainable practices, often involving policy and large-scale projects. Environmental Technicians support these efforts through data collection, site assessments, and technical tasks. While both roles work in environmental settings, Environment Conservation is broader and strategic, whereas Environmental Technicians are more hands-on and technical.

What do you do as an environment conservationist?

An environment conservationist works to protect natural ecosystems, wildlife, and resources through activities such as habitat restoration, environmental research, and advocacy. They often conduct fieldwork, collect data, and collaborate with communities and organizations to promote sustainable practices and environmental awareness.

What jobs can you get with environment conservation?

Jobs in environment conservation include roles such as environmental scientist, conservation officer, wildlife biologist, environmental engineer, and park ranger. These positions often require knowledge of ecology, environmental policies, and sometimes specialized certifications or degrees in environmental science or related fields.

What job categories do people searching Environment Conservation jobs in Elgin, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Environment Conservation jobs in Elgin, IL are:

Environment Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Environment Conservation job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,514 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Conservation Ecologist, Chicago, Keller Science Action Center

Field Museum

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Position: Conservation Ecologist, Chicago Region, Keller Science Action Center
FLSA Status: Exempt
Department: Keller Science Action Center
Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to the natural environment and human history.
Join our team and enjoy a benefits package that truly supports your well-being and lifestyle:
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.
  • Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
  • Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.

We're dedicated to enhancing your life both at work and beyond!
The Field Museum's Keller Science Action Center translates museum science and expertise into action for conservation and quality of life. We are seeking a Conservation Ecologist to support work in the Chicago Wilderness region, where we collaborate with a wide network of partners to advance conservation on the ground in Chicago, Kankakee County, and Northwest Indiana, with the potential to extend into other areas.
The successful candidate brings strong knowledge of regional conservation context and natural and human communities, a passion for collaborative interdisciplinary research and fieldwork, and taxonomic expertise in at least one focal group, and a dedication to quick and tangible results. This experienced conservation ecologist will contribute to the strategy, methods and future direction of the Chicago Program, and will work with team members to develop and implement effective, collaborative approaches oriented to decision-making for conservation and people's well-being. This position is hired on a 3-year term with potential for renewal, is based at the Field Museum in Chicago and reports to the Sr. Director of the Keller Science Action Center.
The work involves regular local field work, and 10-20% of the year devoted to regional travel. Review of candidates will begin August 28 and continue until the position is filled.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provide ecological and taxonomic expertise to Action Center conservation efforts.
  • Lead initiatives within the Chicago program with an interdisciplinary team that includes ecologists, social scientists, and educators.
  • Collaborate as a lead scientist in the Chicago region including planning, fieldwork, and technical reporting to establish and sustain conservation that benefits local communities.
  • Manage key relationships with partners and help establish new partnerships that advance our conservation and well-being goals.
  • Work closely with Action Center staff and partners to synthesize insights and outcomes across particular experiences and generate understanding to leverage results at larger landscape scales.
  • Support the monitoring, evaluation, and iterative improvement of the program.
  • Contribute to grant proposals, technical reports, and other materials for dissemination, including peer-reviewed publications, that support the creation or management of conservation landscapes.
  • Support the creation of conservation tools and training opportunities for conservation professionals, scientists, and other stakeholders.
  • Integrate ecological expertise into the development of long-term conservation strategies in collaboration with other Action Center scientists and partners, identifying and implementing opportunities to expand conservation programming and funding.

Experience and Qualifications (Required):
  • Advanced degree in ecology, conservation biology, wildlife science, or related conservation science field
  • Minimum 4 years of experience in applied conservation science, including fieldwork and project implementation
  • Demonstrated experience working in the Chicago region or a similar large metropolitan ecosystem where conservation occurs across an urban natural mosaic and at corridor/landscape scales.
  • Experience managing projects and competent working both independently and in a team
  • Strong writing, editing and verbal communication skills: able to structure ideas clearly and to communicate them in English to a wide range of audiences
  • Proficiency with digital work platforms such as MS Office and Google Workspace
  • Willingness to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Preferred Experience receiving input from local communities to shape their research.
  • Fluency in Spanish
  • Experience working with diverse partners and stakeholders

Applications must include the following:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • A minimum of three professional references

Equity Commitment
The Keller Science Action Center is committed to a workforce that is diverse and inclusive and the Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Field Museum strives to create a working environment that is free of harassment, discrimination, and retaliation and that promotes human dignity among all staff. Realizing that good relations between co-workers are an integral part of job satisfaction, the Field Museum strives to create a climate of mutual respect among all employees.
Supervision Received:
Receives general supervision by Keller Science Action Sr. Director
Supervision Exercised:
The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
Work Hours and Shift:
35 hours
Hybrid Eligibility:
Eligible
Union Representation:
This position is represented by Field Museum Workers United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO
Location:
1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60605
Pay Range:
$62,000-$70,000
PLEASE READ: *When you apply for multiple positions, please make sure to delete your previous resume and cover letter and upload the latest version of your resume and cover letter that is relevant to the job you are applying for, every time you apply. This will help our hiring managers access the correct documents. Please note that removing the resume and cover letter will not delete any previously submitted resumes and cover letters.
The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.
At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at recruitment@fieldmuseum.org .

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