The DNR is seeking to hire a temporary employee to be stationed at the Prairie Resource Unit. The primary responsibilities of the Temporary Worker at the Iowa DNR Prairie Resource Center are to assist the team with the production of local ecotype native grass and wildflower seed for Iowa’s public lands. The person in this position must possess strong organization and communication skills and be able to express ideas orally and in writing. The candidate must possess identification skills of plants to lead others in the propagation, maintenance, and harvest of prairie species. Candidates must possess the ability to operate independently with indirect supervision under general coordination and program guidelines.

Job duties:

• Assist in the propagation of prairie species at greenhouse and plot areas.
• Assist in the planting and establishment of native grass and forb production fields.
• Assist in the direction of volunteers, inmates, college interns, and other staff in cleaning, planting, and harvest of prairie plant materials.
• Identify and harvest seed of specific prairie species from prairie remnants across the state.
• Assist with harvest and storage of prairie seed.
• Assist with distribution of plant materials to various DNR entities.
• Participate in personal and professional development training activities.
• Be a part of a prescribed fire team and participate in prairie burns. Employee will be required to have or take S-130/190.
• Control noxious weeds in seed production areas. Beneficial to have pesticide applicators license prior to employment.