Job Opportunity - Environmental Monitoring Field Technicians (5 positions available)
Position: The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is seeking Environmental Monitoring Field Technicians with the Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment (WQMA) Section to assist with water quality and biological sampling. The positions are based in Des Moines, IA, with travel statewide. Up to 5 positions are available.
Appointment: The start date is somewhat flexible, but is expected to start May 15, 2025 and continue through the end of August 2025, potentially to early October. There is also an opportunity to start as early as mid-April.
Job Description: Technicians will have the opportunity to work in several of the Iowa DNR WQMA stream, lake, shallow lake, wetland, invertebrate and fish, and beach monitoring programs. Duties include:
- Field work preparation, including calibration and maintenance of field equipment
- Travel to monitoring sites across Iowa (solo and as a team)
- Identify, measure, collect, and record various types of biological, chemical, and physical data
- Coordinate daily delivery of water samples to contract laboratories
- Data entry
- Process invertebrate samples
Full time positions are slated for roughly 40 hours per week with field days extending beyond 8 hours per day and work schedules may fluctuate throughout the season. Final schedules will be coordinated upon selection and will involve extensive travel via state vehicle (often solo) and long hours in the field. Work schedule may periodically involve overnight travel. Lodging costs for overnight stays while traveling for work will be covered by the Iowa DNR. Meal expenses for overnight stays while traveling for work will be reimbursed by the Iowa DNR according to travel policy. Pay range for the positions is $16-$18/hr.
Qualifications: Coursework in biology, fisheries, environmental sciences, or a related field is preferred. This position requires the ability to lift 50 pounds and perform outdoor physical labor in any type of weather and/or on rugged terrain. The candidate must have a valid driver’s license, have basic familiarity with various types of environmental sampling equipment, and use of basic hand tools. Preferred candidates will have the ability to (or learn to) operate a motor vehicle with a trailer, and be able to operate an outboard motorboat. Candidates will follow all rules, policies and procedures of the Iowa DNR. The position requires regular attendance and the ability to work extended hours during the week. The position requires the ability to use Windows-based software at a moderate level (i.e., Word, Excel, and various equipment software).
Deadline for application: December 31, 2025
Interested applicants please email cover letter (with available start and end dates), resume, and two references to:
Jacklyn Gautsch
Environmental Specialist Senior
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
515-336-2326
jackie.gautsch@dnr.iowa.gov
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is an EEO/AA Employer.