Environmental Monitoring Field Technician with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Water Quality Improvement Section to assist with water quality and biological sampling. The position is based in Des Moines, IA, with travel statewide. 

Appointment: The start date is somewhat flexible, but is expected to begin in April - early May and continue through early October, preference will be given to candidates that are able to work through early October.

Job Description: The principle duty of this position will be to assist IDNR staff with field activities, including:

• Lake and stream water quality sampling
• Pathogen and source tracking monitoring
• Sediment and soil sampling
• Stream habitat surveys 
• Invertebrate and fish surveys (electro-shocking)
• Maintenance of monitoring equipment
• Organizing and preparing for weekly field work collections, including but not limited to, sample collection prep, assembling paperwork, data entry and calibrating field water quality equipment

Position is slated for roughly 40 hours per week, but field days may extend beyond 8 hours per day and work schedule may fluctuate throughout the season. Final schedule would be coordinated upon selection and may involve extensive travel and long hours in the field. Work schedule may periodically involve overnight travel. Lodging costs and meal expenses for overnight stays while traveling for work will be reimbursed by the DNR. Pay range for the position is $16-$18/hr.

Qualifications: Coursework in biology, fisheries, environmental sciences, or related fields is preferred. This position requires the ability to lift 50 pounds and perform physical labor, outdoors, in any type of weather and/or on rugged terrain. Candidates must have a valid driver’s license, have the ability to (or learn to) operate a motor vehicle with a trailer and be able to operate an outboard motorboat, have basic familiarity with various types of environmental sampling equipment and use of basic hand tools. Candidates will follow all rules, policies and procedures of the department. Position requires regular attendance, ability to work into the evening when scheduled, or when called upon to do so. The position requires ability to use PC based software at a moderate level (i.e., Word, Excel, and various equipment software).