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$93.2K

$139.5K

How much do natural resource conservation service jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for natural resource conservation service in the United States is $93,206.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects do Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) employees typically work on, and how do they collaborate with local communities?

NRCS employees often work on projects related to soil conservation, water quality improvement, habitat restoration, and sustainable land management. A key part of the role involves collaborating with farmers, ranchers, landowners, and local governments to develop and implement conservation plans tailored to specific landscapes and community needs. Teamwork is essential, as NRCS staff regularly partner with specialists in fields like engineering, biology, and agronomy to achieve project goals. This collaborative, field-oriented work environment provides opportunities to see the real-world impact of conservation efforts and to build strong professional networks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Natural Resource Conservation Service role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Natural Resource Conservation Service role, you generally need a background in environmental science, natural resources, or agriculture, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, conservation planning tools, and federal regulatory systems is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork skills are essential for working with landowners and collaborating with diverse stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for implementing effective conservation practices and ensuring sustainable resource management.

What is the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)?

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is an agency of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) that provides technical and financial assistance to farmers, ranchers, and landowners to help conserve, maintain, and improve natural resources such as soil, water, air, and wildlife habitats. Established in 1935 as the Soil Conservation Service, the NRCS offers programs and expertise to promote sustainable land management and address environmental concerns. The agency works collaboratively with individuals, municipalities, and organizations to implement conservation practices on private lands, ultimately supporting both agricultural productivity and environmental health.
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Natural Resource Conservation Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Natural Resource Conservation Service job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,206 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Land & Water Conservationist

IOWA ASSN SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRIC

Spirit Lake, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Conservation Districts of Iowa
Land & Water Conservationists
Spirit Lake, Iowa
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Anticipated Start Date: Upon successful background check

The successful applicant would work in one of the following areas:
·       Housed in the Spirit Lake USDA-NRCS office  
 
These positions are funded through an agreement between the Conservation Districts of Iowa and the Iowa Natural Resource Conservation Service. Funding is secured through September of 2027 with the opportunity for extension.

Job Description:

Land & Water Conservationists will work to promote conservation practice adoption on private lands in Iowa by assisting with the delivery of USDA’s conservation programs including the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), and other federal, state, and local private lands conservation initiatives. Your efforts to promote and implement conservation practices will help to ensure that Iowa’s landowners and agricultural producers have the technical and financial assistance necessary to address natural resource concerns on their land. This will create positive environmental impacts to water quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat.

As a Conservation Districts of Iowa (CDI) employee, you would work in partnership with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). You would serve as a member of the NRCS Resource Team, receiving training and daily direction from the NRCS Resource Team Lead and District Conservationists for the effective delivery of conservation programs. You would also work closely with the DNR Private Lands Biologist to receive training on wildlife habitat assessment, development, and management for the delivery of wildlife-oriented initiatives. 

We expect the successful candidate to develop into an integral part of the effective delivery of conservation programs. This will involve coordinating with landowners and the resource team to promote conservation practice adoption to landowners and to develop conservation program applications, and create long-term conservation plans. Additionally, the successful candidate will be responsible for providing technical assistance and consultation to landowners for the successful implementation of these practices. At the end of the first year, success would mean that you have developed the skills and relationships necessary to assist landowners and your team members to promote and implement conservation practices using various conservation programs across the landscape. 

 

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with landowners and partner agencies. 
  • Ability to work independently with little supervision and with diverse clientele.
  • Knowledge of water conservation and wildlife ecology, wetland and grassland management including the ability to utilize various habitat management tools in the development of management plans. 
  • Knowledge of water conservation and wildlife programs provided by federal (i.e. Farm Bill, US Fish and Wildlife Service), state, & local entities. In addition, knowledge of how these programs are implemented in an agricultural landscape is desired.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication.
  • Proficiency with computer software programs such as Microsoft Office, ArcGIS or USDA Conservation Desktop.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Valid driver’s license required.
  • Some overnight and evening work required.
  • Able to obtain USDA Federal Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications: 

Bachelor of Science Degree in Conservation Ecology or closely related natural resources field and 1-year related field experience in conservation related positions.

Benefits to the Applicant:

  • Professional Development: Gain valuable experience and skills in conservation program delivery while working alongside experienced professionals in the field.
  • Impactful Work: Contribute to meaningful conservation efforts that benefit local ecosystems and wildlife, and make a tangible difference in environmental protection.
  • Networking Opportunities: Build strong professional relationships with landowners and conservation organizations, expanding your network within the industry.
  • Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and expertise through hands-on experience and professional development opportunities. Previous staff members have successfully leveraged their experience to secure permanent positions within the conservation field, demonstrating the strong potential for career advancement as a result of this experience.
  • Compensation and Benefits:
  • Hourly Rate: $18.47/hour
  • Health Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance coverage
  • Retirement Package: Retirement savings plan
  • Paid Time Off: Paid holidays and paid leave
  • Opportunities for Raises: Potential for salary increases based on performance
Please note that CDI reserves the right to amend or terminate any benefit plans. Participation in these benefits does not constitute a contract or guarantee of future employment.
To Apply: Please include your cover letter indicating which position(s) you are applying for, your resume, and three professional references as one PDF file. Send to Dien Judge at dien@cdiowa.org. CDI is an equal opportunity employer.