Conservation Director

Job Requisition ID: 53777 
Closing Date: 03/20/2026
​Agency: Department of Natural Resources
Class Title: SENIOR PUBLIC SERVICE ADMIN (40070) 
Skill Option: Agriculture/Conservation 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $10,000-$12,000 monthly
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Sangamon
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: None
Merit Comp Code: Term Appointment/ Agency

A resume is highly encouraged to evaluate your qualifications and skills as part of your application.  Please attach a DETAILED Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application if you decide to provide one.

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is looking to hire a Conservation Director for Illinois Nature Preserves Commission. This position will coordinate the activites of nine (9) member, Governor appointed, Illinois Nature Preserves Commission (INPC) and serve as a full supervisor for the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission staff, which includes developing, reviewing, and approving plans of work for nature preserves, develops and oversees budget plan, and works with other IDNR offices and Divisions to set priorities for land acquisition, natural areas stewardship and defense of protected sites using Natural Areas Aquisition Funds. We welcome interested applicants who would like to be part of this team to apply today.

Essential Functions

• Manages the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission, (INPC)
• Serves as full supervisor
• Coordinates and reviews through subordinate staff the process of landowner requests, research permits, land and water registrations, lease agreements and property easements
• Consults with the state, federal, and international agencies on regional, national, and international wildlife manangement issues, policy, and regulations.
• Develops and oversees budget plan to meet Commission and staff needs
• Works with other IDNR Offices and Divisions to set priorities for land acquisition, natural areas stewardship and defense of protected sites using Natural Areas Acquistion Funds
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonable with the scope of the duties enumerated above.

Minimum Qualifications

• Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four (4) years of college with course work in natural resource management, parks and recreation, or natural sciences.
• Requires prior experience equivalent to four (4) years of progressively responsible administrative experience in environmental protection, natural resources preservation, and/or environmental management.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's of Science in Environmental Studies, Natural Sciences or related degree including but not limited to: Zoology, Biology, Botany, Plant Taxonomy, Forestry, Aquatic Ecology, etc
• Three (3) years of professional experience supervising a staff of five (5) or more employees
• Three (3) years of experience in natural resources management. 
• Three (3) years of experience in developing employee work plans or organizational strategic planning
• Three (3) year of managing a budget or funds in a public or private entity
• Three (3) years of experience in development or review of site management plans
• Three (3) years of experience in public speaking and delivering presentations to diverse audiences
• Three (3) years of experience in the application of state and local laws that provide legal protection for high quality natural areas

Employment Conditions

All applicants must be able to meet the following Condidtions