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Wildlife Conservation Software Developer Jobs in Iowa

State of Iowa

Wildlife Technician 2

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$47K - $70K/yr

Work with contractors, engineers, and local government agencies to complete facility improvement ... To conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organizations to ...

Audubon

Program Manager, Mississippi River

Audubon, IA · On-site +1

$73K - $82K/yr

Experience with conservation and resilience funding entities' programming like U.S. Department of ... Fish and Wildlife Service, and other state and regional programs will be a plus. The candidate ...

Stantec

Senior EHS Compliance Specialist

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$107K - $160K/yr

Use engineering principles to provide and lead development of permitting solutions for various ... Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office software platform, specifically Microsoft Excel.

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Wildlife Conservation Software Developer information

What is a Wildlife Conservation Software Developer?

A Wildlife Conservation Software Developer is a professional who designs, develops, and maintains software applications specifically aimed at supporting wildlife conservation efforts. This can involve creating tools for tracking animal populations, analyzing ecological data, managing conservation projects, or facilitating communication between researchers and conservationists. These developers often work closely with biologists, ecologists, and conservation organizations to ensure that the software meets the needs of fieldwork and research. They may also implement geographic information systems (GIS), mobile data collection apps, and machine learning algorithms to help monitor and protect wildlife.

How does a Wildlife Conservation Software Developer typically collaborate with field researchers and conservationists?

Wildlife Conservation Software Developers frequently work closely with field researchers and conservationists to understand their data collection needs, tailor software tools, and ensure seamless integration of technology in fieldwork. Collaboration often involves regular meetings to review requirements, gather user feedback, and troubleshoot issues that arise during field deployment. These developers may also conduct training sessions and provide technical support to non-technical users, making strong communication skills and adaptability essential for success in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Wildlife Conservation Software Developer, and why are they important?

A Wildlife Conservation Software Developer needs strong programming skills (such as Python, Java, or R), experience with data analysis, and a background in environmental science or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, open-source conservation tools, and cloud platforms like AWS or Google Cloud is often required, alongside certifications in software development or data science. Excellent problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help bridge the gap between conservationists and technical teams. These competencies ensure the development of effective, user-friendly software solutions that support wildlife research and conservation efforts.

What is the difference between Wildlife Conservation Software Developer vs Wildlife Biologist?

AspectWildlife Conservation Software DeveloperWildlife Biologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Environmental Science, or related field; coding skillsBachelor's or higher in Biology, Ecology, or related field; fieldwork experience
Work EnvironmentOffice, research labs, field data collection with tech toolsFieldwork, laboratories, research stations
Employer & IndustryEnvironmental NGOs, tech firms, government agenciesResearch institutions, conservation organizations, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Wildlife Conservation Software Developer focuses on creating digital tools and software to aid conservation efforts, requiring programming skills and technical knowledge. In contrast, the Wildlife Biologist conducts field research and studies animal populations directly. Both roles support wildlife conservation but differ in their methods and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Wildlife Conservation Software Developer jobs in Iowa? For Wildlife Conservation Software Developer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Wildlife Conservation Software Developer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Wildlife Conservation Software Developer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Wildlife Conservation Software Developer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Wildlife Conservation Software Developer job openings:
Wildlife Conservation Software Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wildlife Conservation Software Developer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, 9% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Land & Water Conservationist

IOWA ASSN SOIL CONSERVATION DISTRIC

Spirit Lake, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 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.