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Watershed Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... watershed and public lands corridors. Conservation Assistant will report to the Director of Conservation and will assist with field and office activities associated with the Sanctuary's Western ...

Collaborate on a producer-led watershed program. Produce contracts and maps in Toolkit for landowners enrolled in the Conservation reserve Program and Conservation reserve Enhancement Program.

About Audubon The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they ...

GIS Specialist

University Park, PA · On-site +1

$54K - $78K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Collect, analyze, and maintain field data relevant to agricultural conservation and watershed restoration efforts. * Collaborate with researchers, programmers, software developers, Extension ...

$54K - $78K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Collect, analyze, and maintain field data relevant to agricultural conservation and watershed restoration efforts. * Collaborate with researchers, programmers, software developers, Extension ...

Conservation Coordinator

Germantown, OH · On-site

$22.86 - $28.57/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Parks Opening Date: 07/31/2026 Closing Date: 8/30/2026 11:59 PM Eastern Position Description Plans and conducts habitat management and conservation projects in coordination with park managers ...

Showing results 41-60

Watershed Conservation information

See salary details

$32K

$36.9K

$42K

How much do watershed conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for watershed conservation in the United States is $36,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,500.00 and $38,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Watershed Conservation vs Watershed Technician?

AspectWatershed ConservationWatershed Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science, ecology, or related fieldAssociate's or bachelor's degree in environmental science or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, community outreach, policy advocacyField data collection, site monitoring, equipment operation
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, NGOs, environmental consulting firmsEnvironmental agencies, research institutions, conservation organizations

Watershed Conservation professionals focus on protecting and restoring watersheds through planning, policy, and community engagement, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Watershed Technicians typically perform field data collection and monitoring tasks, usually with an associate's or bachelor's degree. Both roles are vital in watershed management but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

What is watershed conservation?

Watershed conservation refers to the management and protection of a watershed—an area of land where all water drains into a common waterway, such as a river, lake, or ocean. This work involves preserving water quality, preventing erosion, restoring habitats, and promoting sustainable land use practices to maintain healthy ecosystems. Professionals in watershed conservation often collaborate with local communities, governments, and organizations to implement conservation strategies and educate the public. Effective watershed conservation ensures clean water, supports biodiversity, and protects communities from flooding and pollution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a watershed conservation specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Watershed Conservation Specialist, you need a background in environmental science or a related field, with expertise in hydrology, ecology, and water quality management. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, water sampling techniques, and relevant environmental regulations or certifications like Certified Erosion, Sediment, and Stormwater Inspector (CESSWI) is often required. Strong communication, project management, and collaboration skills help you engage with stakeholders and coordinate conservation initiatives. These abilities are vital to designing effective watershed protection strategies and ensuring regulatory compliance while fostering community engagement.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in watershed conservation, and how can they prepare for them?

Professionals in watershed conservation often encounter challenges such as balancing the needs of diverse stakeholders, navigating regulatory frameworks, and addressing the impacts of climate change on water resources. Success in this role requires strong communication skills to facilitate collaboration among government agencies, community members, and private landowners. Additionally, staying informed about the latest environmental policies and scientific research helps conservationists develop effective strategies and adapt to changing conditions on the ground.
More about Watershed Conservation jobs

What states have the most Watershed Conservation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Watershed Conservation jobs include:

Infographic showing various Watershed Conservation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,939 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Conservation Coordinator

Detroit Zoological Society

Royal Oak, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Conservation Coordinator
General Description
The Conservation Coordinator administers the daily operations of field conservation programs of the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS).
Under the general supervision of the DZS Director of Conservation, the Conservation Coordinator will provide administrative and logistical support to implement the DZS Conservation Action Plan. The Conservation Coordinator will assist in facilitating conservation projects and activities locally, nationally, and internationally, ensuring successful implementation through partner communication, meeting facilitation, task and project tracking, and documentation management. The Conservation Coordinator will be responsible for helping to assess and improve the conservation of wildlife populations; contributing to knowledge of species conservation status, needs and conservation action effectiveness; and cooperating with internal and external partners on field conservation project development and administration.
The Conservation Coordinator will support, both publicly and privately, the principles and mission of the Detroit Zoological Society. They will support, adhere to and enforce DZS policies and standards, and will always demonstrate a high level of integrity and professionalism.
This job description is by no means all-inclusive and may be subject to change during a performance period. It will be reviewed and modified as needed to ensure effective operations and successful execution of DZS mission.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities
  • Coordinate and conduct applied field conservation projects and activities aimed at understanding, protecting, and supporting wildlife populations and habitats, and furthering knowledge of conservation status, needs and conservation action effectiveness.
  • In coordination with the Director of Conservation, implement the DZS Conservation Action Plan and other aspects of the DZS conservation philosophy and focal conservation initiatives.
  • Consult and cooperate with internal and external conservation partners (i.e., non-governmental organizations and non-profits, government entities, communities, universities, independent researchers).
  • Work collaboratively within and among multiple DZS departments and divisions – including Life Sciences, Education, Operations, Marketing and Communication, Guest Relations and Development – to plan and implement DZS conservation programs and initiatives.
  • Assist in data collection and data management to track progress and metrics for DZS conservation projects and partnerships to ensure strategic goals are being met.
  • Assist in producing annual reports on conservation programs and investments.
  • Conduct educational presentations in both formal and informal settings.
  • Develop and provide presentations at professional meetings.
  • Assist the Director of Conservation in the development of new, strategic DZS conservation projects and partnerships in support of the DZS Conservation Action Plan and DZS Strategic Plan.
  • Support AZA activities, including participating in relevant collaborative conservation programs such as Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE).
  • Share results of conservation activities through publication of scientific and popular articles.
  • Assist in purchasing equipment and supplies, and monitoring budgets.
  • Travel to local, national, and international field conservation sites to evaluate and participate in applied conservation projects with partners.
  • Work independently, with review from DZS Director of Conservation.
  • Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications
Minimum
  • Bachelor’s degree in zoology, ecology, conservation biology, or a closely related discipline.
  • Two years of experience working in field conservation, ecological research, and/or managing zoo/aquarium-based conservation programs.
Preferred
  • Master’s degree in zoology, ecology, conservation biology, or a closely related discipline.
  • Demonstrated background in wildlife conservation project management.
  • Knowledge of Great Lakes and/or global environmental and ecological threats.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and facilitation skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects, balance competing priorities, and meet deadlines.
  • Experience coordinating programs, projects, or events with diverse audiences.
  • Comfortable with both independent work and cross-team collaboration.
  • Strong proficiency with Microsoft Suite (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Teams).
  • Familiarity with project management software, ArcGIS, and emerging conservation technologies (e.g., autonomous recording units (ARU); trail cameras; traditional and AI-based data processing).

Working Conditions
Work is performed indoors and outdoors with exposure to all seasonal weather conditions, with risk of zoonotic disease transmission, and with exposure to computer monitors. Weekend, evening, and holiday work will be required as necessary. National and international travel is required for this position for extended periods of time in variable climates and working conditions.
Physical Requirements
This position requires sitting, standing, walking, bending, and stooping for extended periods, the ability to lift and move up to 40 pounds and the use of standard office equipment and the computer.
Just as we value and celebrate biodiversity, the DZS celebrates the diversity of our human community. We are committed to ensuring that our programs and facilities are fully accessible to create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for all.