The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is seeking Environmental Monitoring Field Technicians with the Water Monitoring and Assessment Section (WMAS) to assist with water quality and biological sampling. The positions are based in Des Moines, IA, with travel statewide. Up to 7 positions are available, both full time and part time.

Appointment: The start date is somewhat flexible, but is expected to start May 19, 2025 and continue through the end of August 2025, potentially to early October.

Job Description: Technicians will have the opportunity to work in several of the DNR WMAS stream, lake, shallow lake, wetland, fish kill follow-up, 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 and part time positions 20 hours per week, but field days may extend 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 DNR. Meal expenses for overnight stays while traveling for work will be reimbursed by the 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 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).