Join Our Team: Employment Opportunities

Do you care about the environment and want to make a difference in the world? Do you like to work in an action-oriented, exciting, diverse, high-energy and challenging workplace? If you are a team player, highly productive, accountable with an eye for customer service, then the DNR is the right place for you.

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Wildlife Seasonal

Under the daily direction of Iowa DNR staff, the incumbent will conduct habitat management work on public wildlife areas. The DNR Temporary position is expected to perform a variety of semi-skilled maintenance and technical tasks at a wildlife management unit. The employee is expected to display a high level of initiative and commitment towards completing assignments efficiently. Employees in this position will work with other wildlife unit personnel and be under the general direction of the Wildlife Biologist. The job duties of this position include general wildlife management activities on State owned wildlife areas within the assigned unit counties.

Full information: Job Title: Wildlife Seasonal

Wildlife Seasonal, Turkey Project

The Iowa DNR is looking to hire two (2) Turkey Project Temporary Workers to complete field work associated with an ongoing 10-year wild turkey study in southeast Iowa. Under the daily direction of Iowa DNR staff, the incumbent will assist with turkey trapping work during the winter months. The incumbent will also be expected to conduct habitat management work on public wildlife areas and wildlife disease monitoring work such as tissue collection. This DNR Wildlife Temporary Worker position is expected to perform a variety of semi-skilled maintenance and technical tasks at a wildlife management unit. The employee is expected to display a high level of initiative and commitment towards completing assignments efficiently. Employees in this position will work with other wildlife unit personnel and be under the general direction of the Wildlife Biologist.

Full information: Job Title: Wildlife Seasonal, Turkey Project

[Dec 2] Position: Facilities Engineer 2 (District Engineer) - Land, Waters, Engineering Bureau

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is looking for someone to join its Construction Engineering team. This position will cover the Southeast Iowa District Engineer, covering 17 counties in Region. As the District Engineer, this position will perform lead engineering or architectural work, providing technical advice and assistance in the planning, managing and coordinating of construction, repair and preventative maintenance for all Department facilities within the district. This position will manage a wide variety of construction projects, ranging from minor culvert replacements to complete campground reconstructions, which include water, wastewater, electrical, and pavement infrastructure replacement. Also, this position will work closely with industry-leading biologists to design and construct facilities that benefit the environment, whether it be to stabilize the landscape, improve habitat for terrestrial and aquatic species, or to restore areas to a natural state.

Closing Date: December 2nd, 2024 11:59 PM

Posting: Position: Facilities Engineer 2 (District Engineer) - Land, Waters, Engineering Bureau


[Nov 14] Position: Natural Resources Biologist (Large River Fisheries Research Biologist) - Fisheries Bureau

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is seeking professional applicants for the position of Large River Fisheries Research Biologist. The DNR’s Fisheries Research Program focuses on evaluating existing fisheries management practices, innovating new techniques, and advancing the science and technology used to improve fishing in Iowa. This focus helps the Fisheries Bureau ensure that fishing license dollars are spent wisely and as efficiently as possible. This position provides administrative and technical supervision of the Large River Fisheries Research Program. This research biologist cooperates with fisheries managers to identify problems affecting the fisheries resources of large rivers, design and conduct research projects to solve these problems, assist fisheries management biologists in the implementation of research findings and provide the general public with information about the research and management of large river fisheries.

Closing Date: November 14, 2004 11:59 PM

Posting: Position: Natural Resources Biologist (Large River Fisheries Research Biologist) - Fisheries Bureau


[Nov 14] Position: Natural Resources Technician 1 - Wildlife Bureau

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking dedicated individuals committed to protecting Iowa's natural resources and providing citizens with recreational opportunities. We currently have an opening for a Wildlife Technician at the Maquoketa Wildlife Sub Unit in Strawberry Point, Iowa.

Closing Date: November 14, 2024 11:59 PM

Posting: Position: Natural Resources Technician 1 - Wildlife Bureau


[Nov 8] Position: Environmental Engineer (TMDL Engineer) - Water Quality Bureau

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking a qualified and motivated Environmental Engineer to support the development, implementation, and oversight of the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) program, also known as Water Quality Improvement Plans. This position plays a critical role in addressing water quality issues in impaired water bodies throughout Iowa. The Environmental Engineer will apply a variety of technical, analytical, and collaborative skills to assess pollution sources, develop TMDLs, and facilitate compliance with state and federal water quality regulations.

Closing Date: November 8th, 2024 11:59 PM

Posting: Position: Environmental Engineer (TMDL Engineer) - Water Quality Bureau


[Nov 8] Position: Natural Resources Technician 1 (State Park Technician) - Parks Bureau

The Iowa DNR’s Parks, Forests, and Preserves Bureau is currently seeking a dedicated and passionate State Park Technician to join our team at Three Fires State Park. The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about natural resource management, committed to maintaining the beauty and safety of our park, and eager to engage with the public to promote our Bureau mission. Three Fires is a large park with public hunting and a wildlife management area bordering the area. The park is filled with history from the 6 6 CCC cabins and CCC lodge and shelter. There are nearly 12 miles of trails which include equestrian and multi use trails. There is a small fishing lake. The park is filled with oak forest and remnant prairie. This position will work in the park at the direction of the park manager. In this role, you’ll take charge of ensuring that all park facilities—including offices, restrooms, campgrounds, shelters, lodges, and more—are kept clean and in excellent condition. You'll operate and maintain a diverse range of equipment safely and effectively, from mowers and tractors to boats and power tools. Additionally, you’ll oversee the smooth functioning of our heating, cooling, water, and wastewater systems.

Closing Date: November 8th, 2024 11:59 PM

Posting: Position: Natural Resources Technician 1 (State Park Technician) - Parks Bureau


[Nov 8] Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Engineer

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking a qualified and motivated Environmental Engineer to support the development, implementation, and oversight of the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) program, also known as Water Quality Improvement Plans. This position plays a critical role in addressing water quality issues in impaired water bodies throughout Iowa. The Environmental Engineer will apply a variety of technical, analytical, and collaborative skills to assess pollution sources, develop TMDLs, and facilitate compliance with state and federal water quality regulations.

Closing Date: November 08, 2024 - 11:59 PM

Posting: Natural Resources Technician 1


[Nov 7] Position: Environmental Specialist (Trout Run Watershed Coordinator ) - Fisheries Bureau

Are you passionate about improving water quality and making a lasting impact on Iowa’s aquatic resources? Do you want to work alongside dedicated fisheries professionals with a shared goal of enhancing fishing opportunities through conservation? If so, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites you to apply for the position of Watershed Project Coordinator in the DNR Fisheries Bureau! The position will be stationed at the Decorah Fish Hatchery, a facility renowned for its role in raising rainbow trout for stocking streams across Iowa. The hatchery is a cornerstone of the local community, both for its contributions to Iowa’s fisheries and as a beloved tourist destination. Nestled in the charming town of Decorah, known for its vibrant culture, outdoor recreation, and strong conservation ethic, you’ll have the opportunity to work in an area that is deeply connected to its natural resources.

Closing Date: November 7th, 2024 11:59 PM

Posting: Position: Environmental Specialist (Trout Run Watershed Coordinator ) - Fisheries Bureau


[Nov 6] Position: Natural Resources Technician 2 (Assistant Fisheries Management Biologist) - Fisheries Bureau

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking a highly motivated and skilled individual to join our team as an Assistance Biologist in the Lake Macbride Fish Management District. This position is based in the charming community of Solon, located in the heart of eastern Iowa, known for its scenic landscapes, rich outdoor recreational opportunities, and small-town hospitality. Solon is ideally situated near Lake Macbride State Park and the Coralville Reservoir, making it a perfect destination for those who value fishing, hiking, boating, and other outdoor activities. The area is also a short drive from the vibrant city of Iowa City, home to cultural, educational, and entertainment options.

As an Assistant Fisheries Management Biologist, you will play a key role in managing fisheries resources across a 10-county area. This position focuses on preserving and enhancing Iowa’s aquatic ecosystems while providing excellent angling opportunities for the public. The ideal candidate is passionate about fisheries conservation, enjoys hands-on fieldwork, and is ready to take on diverse responsibilities ranging from fish population surveys to public outreach. Major duties of this position include, fisheries management responsibilities, data collection and management, equipment and facility maintenance, public outreach, and assisting with other DNR programs.

Closing Date: November 6th, 2024 11:59 PM

Posting: Position: Natural Resources Technician 2 (Assistant Fisheries Management Biologist) - Fisheries Bureau


[Oct 31] Wildlife Technician, Ventura IA

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking dedicated individuals committed to protecting Iowa's natural resources and providing citizens with recreational opportunities. We currently have an opening for a Wildlife Technician at the Clear Lake Wildlife Unit in Ventura, Iowa.

Closing Date: October 31, 2024 - 11:59 PM

Posting: Natural Resources Technician 1, Wildlife


Seasonal Positions

Seasonal Employment Positions listed below

[Dec. 15] Position: Seasonal Water Patrol Officer- Law Enforcement (LE) Bureau

The temporary, summer employees of the Iowa DNR LE Bureau are positions of high responsibility. Diverse duties include checking for compliance with Iowa's navigation and fishing regulations and helping to ensure a safe recreational environment for the public. Water Patrol Officers also provide public assistance and safety education through personal contacts and by participating in DNR's educational programs. Water Patrol Officers are often the first to respond to the scene of emergencies such as accidents, missing persons or other calls for assistance.

Water Patrol Information Sheet

Job number: 25-00772
Location:

Conservation & Recreation, Law Enforcement Bureau, Statewide

Hours: Non-traditional, extended hours, weekends, nights, holidays
Closing Date: December 15, 2024 – 11:59 p.m.

For specific job duties, requirements, and application information: Position: Seasonal Water Patrol Officer-Law Enforcement Bureau

Locations: The following are POTENTIAL positions that MAY be available. Only indicate on your application those that you are willing and able to work; i.e. only those areas that you would accept employment if offered. Housing is not available with these positions.

Water Patrol:

  • IOWA LAKES/DICKINSON COUNTY (NW IOWA)
  • STORM LAKE (in Buena Vista County) (NW IOWA)
  • BLACK HAWK LAKE (in Sac County) (NW IOWA)
  • NORTH TWIN LAKE (in Calhoun County) (NW IOWA)
  • MISSISSIPPI RIVER Pool 10 @ MARQUETTE/MACGREGOR (Clayton County) (NE IOWA)
  • MISSISSIPPI RIVER Pool 9 @ HARPER'S FERRY (Allamakee County) (NE IOWA)
  • MISSISSIPPI RIVER Pool 11 @ DUBUQUE (Dubuque County) (NE IOWA)
  • MISSISSIPPI RIVER Pool 12 @ BELLEVUE (Jackson County) (NE IOWA)
  • CLEAR LAKE @ (in Cerro Gordo County) (NC IOWA)
  • MISSOURI RIVER/LAKE MANAWA (in Pottawattamie County) (SW IOWA)
  • MISSOURI RIVER/CARTER LAKE (in Pottawattamie County) (SW IOWA)
  • MISSISSIPPI RIVER @ MONTROSE (in Des Moines and Lee Counties) (SE IOWA)
  • MISSISSIPPI RIVER @ PRINCETON/CLINTON (Scott and Clinton Counties) (SE IOWA)
  • MISSISSIPPI RIVER @ FAIRPORT (Muscatine and Louisa Counties) (SE IOWA)
  • CORALVILLE RESERVOIR (in Johnson County) (SE IOWA)
  • LAKE RATHBUN (in Appanoose County) (SC IOWA)
  • LAKE REDROCK (in Marion County) (SC IOWA)
  • SAYLORVILLE LAKE (Polk County) (C IOWA)

DNR Job Classifications

The DNR is a diverse organization with 75 different job classifications.

The number following each job title represents the total number of full-time positions in that classification:

Job Descriptions:
For detailed information regarding these positions, please refer to the job class descriptions found on the DAS website.

Accountant 2 (2)
Accountant 3 (1)
Accounting Clerk 2 (2)
Accounting Technician 2 * (4)
Accounting Technician 3 (1)
Administrative Assistant 1 (8)
Administrative Assistant 2 * (16)
Administrative Sec (1)
Architectual Technician 1 * (1)
Assistant Survey Party Chief (1)
Attorney 2 * (7)
Biometrician (1)
Budget Analyst 3 * (3)
Carpenter 1 (1)
Carpenter 2 (1)
Clerk Advanced (5)
Clerk Specialist (6)
Conservation Officer (80)
Construction Technician (3)
Construction Technician Senior (1)
Construction Technician Supervisor (1)
Custodial Worker (1)
Environmental Engineer (35)
Environmental Engineer Senior * (18)
Environmental Program Supervisor (23)
Environmental Specialist (102)
Environmental Specialist Senior (64)
Executive Officer 1 (6)
Executive Officer 2 (25)
Executive Officer 3 * (4)
Executive Sec (1)
Facilities Engineer 1 * (7)
Facilities Engineer 2 (4)
Facilities Engineer Associate (1)
Facilities Main Coordinator (1)
Forester 2 * (18)
Forester 3 (4)
Geologist Technician (1)
Geologist 2 * (5)
Geologist 3 * (26)
Human Resources Associate * (2)
Information Specialist 1 (1)
Information Specialist 2 (9)
Information Specialist 3 (4)

Information Technology Administrator 2 (1)
Information Technology Administrator 3 (1)
Information Technology Specialist 2 (7)
Information Technology Specialist 3 (3)
Information Technology Specialist 4 (6)
Information Technology Specialist 5 (5)
Information Technology Support Worker 2 (3)
Information Technology Support Worker 3 (3)
Mail Clerk 1 (1)
Maintenance Repairer (1)
Microbiologist (1)
Museum Technician (1)
Natural Resources Biologist (68)
Natural Resources Technician 1 (53)
Natural Resources Technician 2 (75)
Park Manager (34)
Park Ranger (30)
Program Planner 1 (1)
Program Planner 2 (6)
Program Planner 3 (9)
Public Service Executive 2 * (25)
Public Service Executive 3 * (8)
Public Service Executive 4 * (14)
Public Service Executive 5 * (2)
Public Service Executive 6 (1)
Public Service Supervisor 2 (1)
Purchasing Agent 3 * (1)
Purchasing Assistant (1)
Receptionist (2)
Right of Way Agent 2 (1)
Right of Way Agent 3 * (2)
Secretary 1 (6)
Secretary 2 (11)
Statistical Research Analyst 2 (1)
Statistical Research Analyst 3 (2)
Training Specialist 1 (4)
Training Specialist 2 (1)
Typist Advanced (1)
Word Processor 3 (1)

For current permanent job openings at the DNR, visit the State of Iowa Department of Administrative Services and then click on "Job Openings for all applicants," followed by "Search Openings" and then you can then search for DNR listings using Department #542.

Insurance Coverage

Health Insurance Icon The State of Iowa Health, Dental, and Life insurance programs allow you to pay a fraction of the cost in premiums as other employers, yet have some of the best coverage in Iowa.

Personal Development

Personal Development Icon Employees are the DNR's most valuable resources, which is why we offer a number of PDS courses for further growth and development.

Paid Time Off

Paid Time Off Icon We value you and your families mental and physical well being by offering paid sick leave, vacation time, and family care time.

Work Life Balance

Paid Time Off Icon The DNR offers a number of ways to balance work and home life through telework, flexible schedules, and time off options.

Retirement

Retirement Icon You will be eligible for the State of Iowa pension program (IPERS) and for a supplemental retirement plan with monthly matches.

Iowa DNR Careers

Mission:
To conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organizations to improve the quality of life in Iowa and ensure a legacy for future generations.

Vision:
Leading Iowans in caring for our natural resources.

Hiring Motto:
Hire the right person for the right job at the right time!

DNR recognizes and strives to capitalize on the fact that employees are our most valuable resource. DNR seeks to recruit, hire, train, develop and retain the very best employees.

Guiding Principles:
Customer Focus, Long-Term Thinking, Results/Outcome Orientation, Data-Based Decisions, Continuous Improvement, Accountability, Empowerment, Valuing Employees, Mutual Respect, Collaboration, and Integrity

Core Competencies:
Accountability, Integrity, High Productivity, Communication Skills, Interpersonal Skills, Team Player, Customer Focus, and Technical Skills.

Application Preferences:
DNR highly encourages interested applicants to upload a resume and cover letter when applying for all DNR positions through the DAS NEOGOV application system.


Environmental Services


Seasonal Fisheries


Seasonal Wildlife and Parks


Water Patrol Officers


Ready to Apply?

Careers with the DNR enjoy a culture of meaningful and satisfying work with a family friendly environment. Our staff work towards the DNR mission every day, which is to conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organization, to improve the quality of life in Iowa and ensure a legacy for future generations.


Employment tips for applying.

Current openings with the Iowa DNR can also be found through the State of Iowa employment portal.

When applying, keep in mind the following tips:

  • complete the online application
  • always attach a resume and cover letter
    • cover letter is your opportunity to convey why you are interested in the position and how your skills and abilities connect to the job.
    • resume should showcase your knowledge, skills, and abilities relatable to the critical competencies and essential functions from the job description you are applying for.
  • reach out to the supervisor or point of contact to ask questions and show your interest.