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Refuge Manager Salary in California, United States
How much does a Refuge Manager make in California, United States?
$91,709 (USD)/year
Average Bonus
$3,008 (USD)
per Year
Total Compensation
$93,520.06
Entry Level
$64,655
Median
$90,512
Senior Level
$105,138
As of July, 23, 2026, the average refuge manager gross salary in California, United States is $91,709 or an equivalent hourly rate of $44. In addition, refuge managers earn an average bonus of $3,008. An entry level refuge manager with 1-3 years of experience earns an average salary of $64,655. At the higher end of the pay range, a senior level refuge manager with 8+ years of experience earns an average salary of $105,138. Salary estimates are based on salary survey data collected directly from employers in California, United States.
Data powered by ERI
Salary Potential for a Refuge Manager
Explore the estimated salary growth for a Refuge Manager in California, United States for up to 5 years. The estimated salary of a Refuge Manager will be $94,158 in 1 year and $104,626 in 5 years.
View Salary by Year
Estimated Salary
$96,672
Average Growth
5.4 %
The estimated salary for a Refuge Manager in 2 years is $96,672, which is 5.4 % average growth. This information is based on ERI's compensation database.
Typical Refuge Manager Education
Education data not available for this job
Popular Skills for a Refuge Manager
Skills data not available for this job
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Salaries for Similar Job Titles in California, United States
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View moreCost of Living in California, United States
The cost of living in California, United States is 40% higher than the national average.
40% higher
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Refuge Manager do?
Manages and conserves the wildlife and habitats found on a nature refuge. Develops and implements land use programs and plans for maintaining wildlife. Creates an inventory of refuge wildlife and monitors the ecological processes of flora and fauna populations to identify environmental issues. Understands and enforces laws and regulations regarding ecological conservation, including protected species guidelines. Reviews environmental project proposals to identify and address conflicts with refuge management policies. Approves and restricts permit issuances for land usage. Supervises refuge staff, including scientists, technicians, and administrative personnel. Supports outreach and collaboration with communities, foundations, government entities, and other agencies to encourage engagement with refuge initiatives. Conducts ecological education programs to promote conservation and refuge goals. Administers the refuge budget and spending.
How much does a Refuge Manager make in California, United States?
The average salary for a Refuge Manager is $91,709 per year or $44.09 per hour in California, United States. Top earners have reported making up to $105,138. However, the typical pay range in California, United States is between $64,655 and $105,138 annually.
What is the salary trajectory for a Refuge Manager?
Refuge Manager is projected to see a 14.1 % salary change in 5 years.
How can you increase your salary?
Increasing your salary often starts with understanding your value in today’s job market. You can increase your earning potential by building your skills, advancing your education, moving into a new role or industry, switching companies, or negotiating pay.
How can you negotiate a salary offer?
Negotiating a salary offer involves preparation and finding our your market value. Use our salary calculator to find out how much you should be paid based on what someone in your area, with similar experience, earns. Use this personalized report to help negotiate a higher salary offer or find your dream career.
What are some factors that impact Refuge Manager salaries?
Several factors can impact your salary, including experience, company size, job market, location, industry, and more. Understanding how these factors affect your role can help you spot pay gaps and provide opportunities for a competitive salary.
About Our Data
This page is an excerpt of the much more complete compensation information available in ERI's Assessor Series.
ERI compiles the most robust and accurate salary, cost-of-living, and executive compensation survey database available. Data are analyzed using AI and traditional statistics, depending on which approach is best for a particular application. ERI collects salary survey data from five different sources, which you can learn about here.
Verified Sources
Data sourced from internal salary surveys, purchased surveys, public sources, HRIS data, and proprietary databases.
Real-Time Data
Our salary database is updated and verified approximately every six weeks.
Quality Assurance
Along with our data scientists, we have included AI in our rigorous process to analyze and provide the highest quality data.
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