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 30] Wildlife Diversity Research Technicians - Temporary

The Wildlife Diversity Program of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking to hire two temporary technicians who are enthusiastic about non-game wildlife. Technicians will earn an hourly rate of $15.00. The positions will be stationed in different locations and have different duties: Prairie Skink and Regal Fritillary Butterfly research and management in Kellerton, IA and a more general office-based position in Boone, IA. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to work in some of Iowa’s most beautiful wetland and grassland landscapes and with many fascinating species of wildlife.

Full information: Job Title: Wildlife Research Technician, Full-time Temporary

Full information: Job Title: Wildlife Research and Management Technician, Full-time Temporary

[Dec 9] Position: Facilities Engineer Associate – Land, Waters and Engineering Bureau

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is looking for someone to join its Engineering Design team as a Facilities Engineer Associate. This position will work under the supervision of a licensed professional engineer to assist with maintaining and improving public facilities across the state, ensuring that the health, safety and welfare of the general public and state employees are protected and the facilities are constructed to all code requirements.

Closing Date: December 9, 2024 11:59 PM

Posting: Position: Facilities Engineer Associate – Land, Waters and Engineering Bureau


[Dec 5] Natural Resources Biologist (Urban Wildlife Biologist) - Wildlife Bureau

We are seeking a dedicated and skilled Natural Resources and Wildlife Management Biologist to join our team. This role involves professional planning, management, research, monitoring, and outreach activities associated with wildlife and natural resource management. The successful candidate will provide technical assistance on public policy, ordinances, city and park master plans, sustainable development, watershed protection, transportation planning, and wildlife habitat management, primarily for municipalities and communities.

Closing Date: December 5, 2024 11:59 PM

Posting: Natural Resources Biologist (Urban Wildlife Biologist) - Wildlife Bureau


[Dec 2] Position: Senior Architect (Facilities Engineer 2) – Engineering, Land & Waters Bureau

The DNR is seeking a senior-level architect to join our team. As the DNR architect, you will be responsible for lead design work on a wide variety of building projects from concept through construction, with duties that include communicating with park managers and wildlife biologists, CAD drafting, researching and developing cost estimates and bid documents and conducting site visit inspections to verify that contracted work meets specified requirements. In this position, you will be exposed to a variety of architectural projects that include new construction and/or renovations of staff offices, shop buildings, storage buildings, restrooms and shower buildings, picnic shelters, and campground kiosks. Additionally, you will be responsible for evaluating the condition of various historic DNR-managed structures, including buildings constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in order to develop maintenance and renovation plans.

Closing Date: December 2, 2024 11:59 PM

Posting: Position: Senior Architect (Facilities Engineer 2) – Engineering, Land & Waters Bureau


[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 25] Position: Natural Resources Technician 2 - Wildlife Bureau

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual to fill our Natural Resources Technician 2 positions. This position plays a crucial role in supporting the Private Lands Coordinator and Forestry section staff, assisting private landowners with forest stewardship, promoting forestry-related education, and providing public land management services. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of forestry principles, excellent administrative skills, and the ability to work closely with landowners, forestry staff, and the public.

Closing Date: November 25, 2024 11:59 PM

Posting: Position: Natural Resources Technician 2 - Wildlife Bureau


[Nov 22] Position: Natural Resources Biologist - Wildlife Bureau

We are a leading organization dedicated to wildlife conservation and management. Our Wildlife Unit plays a pivotal role in ensuring the preservation and sustainable use of natural resources. We are seeking a dynamic and dedicated individual to join our team as a Wildlife Unit Biologist. As the Wildlife Unit Biologist, you will be responsible for overseeing the administration and resource management of our Wildlife Unit. Your role will involve coordinating activities of Unit personnel, planning public area management, and annual project schedules. Additionally, you will monitor expenditures, work performance, and policy compliance.

Closing Date: November 22, 2024 11:59 PM

Posting: Natural Resources Biologist - Wildlife Bureau


[Nov 19] Position: Right of Way Agent 2 (Land Management Specialist) - Land, Waters, Engineering Bureau

The Department of Natural Resources has an exciting opportunity for a Land Management Specialist (Right of Way Agent 2) within the Land and Waters Bureau of the Department located in Des Moines, IA. The primary purpose of this position is to provide land management services for program areas located in the Conservation and Recreation Division of the DNR. Those services include: resolution of boundary conflicts, land survey contracting, preparation of departmental agreements and easements, administration of the Habitat Management Lease Program, coordinate building disposals, and negotiate the acquisition/disposal of sovereign land and easements. College or university students that are pending graduation in December 2024 with a Bachelor’s Degree in a natural science or biological science are eligible to apply for this position.

Closing Date: November 19, 2024 11:59 PM

Posting: Position: Right of Way Agent 2 (Land Management Specialist) - Land, Waters, Engineering Bureau


[Nov 19] Position: Watershed Coordinator (Environmental Specialist) – Water Quality Bureau

Are you passionate about improving water quality and making a lasting impact on Iowa’s land and aquatic resources? Do you want to work alongside dedicated professionals with a shared goal of enhancing opportunities through environmental conservation and protection? If so, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites you to apply for the position of Watershed Project Coordinator in the DNR Water Quality Bureau!

The position will be stationed primarily at the Greene County SWCD/NRCS.

This unique opportunity will allow you to lead water quality improvement projects that directly benefit water quality and soil health in assigned Iowa watersheds. By collaborating with conservation organizations, agricultural stakeholders, and other local partners, your work will play a crucial role in improving water quality, reducing pollution, and ultimately enhancing the health of Iowa’s water bodies.

Closing Date: November, 19, 2024 at 11:59PM CST

Posting: Position: Watershed Coordinator (Environmental Specialist) – Water Quality Bureau


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.