Salary : $37,564.80 - $60,091.20 Annually
Location : Springfield, MO
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 071326
Department: Parks
Opening Date: 07/13/2026
Closing Date: 7/27/2026 11:59 PM Central
Description
The City of Springfield Parks Department is actively looking for a Field Conservationist to join its team. The Field Conservationist will be key in implementing and supporting science-based conservation strategies that align with the department's mission and conservation goals. In this position, you will collaborate with and assist the Parks Conservation Coordinator in executing the vision outlined in the Parks strategic plan. Responsibilities may include tasks such as horticulture, landscaping, prescribed burns, establishing a native plant nursery, and more.
The Parks Department is committed to preserving and educating the public on our amazing natural resources. This position will be the point-person for ecological stewardship and land preservation of our 105+ parks and 125+miles of trails.
Benefits include:
- Generous paid leave
- Paid pension retirement
- Paid health insurance
- and MUCH MORE! Click here to find out more.
About our Parks Department: The Springfield-Greene County Park strives to provide the very best in parks and recreation facilities, programs, events, and services to our community. In doing so, we will make a positive impact on the overall quality of life, health, environmental, social, and economic aspects for our resident families and visitors alike.
The Park Board includes 3,200 acres and 105 sites, ranging from neighborhood playgrounds to multi-use recreational facilities to natural resource areas. The system includes four golf courses, three family centers, a zoo, a farm park, botanical gardens, several sports and athletic complexes, two indoor aquatics centers, six outdoor swimming pools, multiple School-Park sites and more than 100 miles of recreational trails -- including 70 miles of Greenways.
Leadership Philosophy
The City of Springfield's leadership culture is grounded in processes, relationships, and trust. Leaders across the organization operate within the principles of The Trust Edge Framework®, which emphasizes:
Clarity, Compassion, Character, Competency, Commitment, Connection, Contribution, and Consistency
These principles guide how we work together, build relationships, and serve our community.
Qualifications and Requirements
Experience, Education, and Training
- Three years of experience working in horticulture, conservation, ecological restoration, arboriculture, forestry, or landscaping.
- Completion of 23 hours of horticulture, forestry or related coursework from an accredited college or university may be substituted for two years' experience.
Licensing/Certification
- Must obtain a valid State Public Operator's License (Ornamental and Turf Category or Right of Way) within probationary period. Good standing as an International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist is preferable.
- Must possess a valid Driver's License.
Functions
For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the
job description
Other Requirements
Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability and Vet
The City of Springfield promotes equal employment opportunities to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.
Individuals with disabilities who believe they will need an accommodation to undergo any part of the interview, examination, or pre-employment process, should request a reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to the testing or appointment. Requests should be requested by contacting City of Springfield Human Resources by phone, 417-864-1607, or in person at the Municipal Busch Building, 840 Boonville Ave. Springfield, MO 65802.
Proof of United States Citizenship/Authorization to Work in the United States as established by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 is a condition of employment. We are committed to a drug-free workplace. Pre-employment drug testing is required.
All interested candidates
MUST complete the City of Springfield on-line application in its entirety. The candidate profile must include all employment history with accurate and complete information prior to submission.
Resumes alone will not be accepted as the application, but they may be submitted as supplemental documentation.
Find out more about City of Springfield employee benefits through the following link:
01
The following questions are specific to the position you are applying for and must be completed accurately. The information you provide below must be reflected in the experience, education, or volunteer work provided in your application above. A response of 'see resume' will not be accepted.
02
What best describes your level of education?
- Less than High School
- High School Diploma or GED equivalent
- Less than 23 college credit hours
- 23 college credit hours
- Associate's Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree or higher
03
How many years of experience do you have in horticulture, conservation, ecological restoration, arboriculture, forestry, or landscaping?
- I do not have any experience
- Less than 1 year
- 1 year
- 2 years
- 3 years
- 4 years
- 5 or more years
04
Please describe your experience.
05
Do you possess a valid driver's license?
Required Question