Wildlife Technician 1
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Wildlife Technician 1
Salary
$41,100.80 - $60,174.40 Annually
Location
State of Iowa - See Job Description, IA
Job Type
Full-time
Job Number
26-01764
Agency
542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Opening Date
01/08/2026
Closing Date
1/20/2026 11:59 PM Central
LinkedIn Tag
LI-POST
Point of Contact
Nick Baumgarten (Odessa) - 712-330-6932, nick.baumgarten@dnr.iowa.gov; Rodney Ellingson (Iowa River) - 641-751-9767, Rodney.ellingson@dnr.iowa.gov; Bryan Hellyer (Clear Lake) - 319-591-1244, bryan.hellyer@dnr.iowa.gov
To Apply
The Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter to their online application.
Description
Benefits
Questions
Job Description
Only applicants who meet the Minimum Qualification Requirements and meet all selective requirements (listed below) will be placed on the eligible list.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking dedicated individuals committed to protecting Iowa's natural resources and providing citizens with recreational opportunities. We currently have three openings for a Wildlife Technician - one at each of these units: Odessa Wildlife Unit in Wapello, Iowa, Iowa River Wildlife Unit in Chelsea, Iowa and Clear Lake Wildlife Unit in Ventura, Iowa.
What We're Looking for from You:
A description of how you demonstrate the critical job competencies, how you can perform the essential functions of the job, and how you meet the education/experience in the Job Description. Please note: Applicants are encouraged to upload a current resume and cover letter to their online application.
Duties & Responsibilities of a Wildlife Technician:
Habitat Management:
Execute management plans for WMAs, including grass/forb seedings, prairie restoration, wetland restoration, tree plantings, and wildlife food plantings.
Conduct seasonal water level monitoring and manipulation within wetlands to maintain desired habitat conditions.
Control noxious and other weeds, and manage habitat leases.
Operate motor vehicles, chainsaws, and apply herbicides and chemicals as needed.
Facility Development and Maintenance:
Repair and maintain all WMU facilities, including buildings, signs, roads, bridges, and water control structures.
Recommend and construct new facilities such as ID signs, boundary fences, roads, parking lots, and boat ramps.
Operate heavy equipment, supervise contractors, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Project Administration:
Assist with report and document preparation, daily oversight of temporary staff, and instruction of safe work practices.
Communicate with biologists and supervisors regarding personnel issues and emergencies.
Attend district and statewide meetings, record equipment use, and assist with purchasing and contract supervision.
Participate in information and education activities, including presentations and training sessions.
Population Management:
Participate in trapping and banding of various species for population monitoring and research projects.
Conduct annual counts and surveys of game and non-game species and their habitats.
Utilize weapons in compliance with state policies for dispatching injured or dangerous animals and conducting research.
Qualifications:
Demonstrated ability to perform the essential functions outlined in the job description.
Strong communication and leadership skills.
Experience or education transferable to the job description.
Must be able to operate heavy equipment and utilize weapons in compliance with state policies.
Essential Functions
Function within a small field work team to accomplish needed land management activities.
Perform strenuous work and withstand physically demanding work. Work outside under any @type of weather conditions, including inclement conditions.
Conduct basic wildlife management projects utilizing knowledge of wildlife management techniques and perform specific techniques based on science-driven information.
Relate knowledge of basic state and federal laws, rules, and regulations as they pertain to wildlife resources to the general public, stakeholders, DNR staff, management staff or other key resources in Iowa.
Applicants must meet requirements of DAS Selective Certification #901 - Wildlife Biology, which requires a minimum of 12 semester hours, six months experience, or a combination of both in the area of wildlife biology.
The successful candidate must have or must be able to obtain/maintain the following certifications and licensure:
S-130/S-190 Firefighter Training Qualification
S-212 Chainsaw Safety Training Qualification
Pesticide Applicator Certification
Driver's License
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
CPR/First Aid Certification.
Normal hours are 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, however the hours and shifts may vary during the DNR peak seasons.
Critical Job Competencies
Competencies: Accountability, Integrity, High Productivity, Customer Focus, Team Player, Interpersonal Skills, Communication Skills, Self-Management, Computer Skills, Technical Skills (wildlife management)
What You Get From Us:
A competitive pay plan and rewarding work.
Insurance benefits that start the first of the month following 30 days of employment.
(Premiums can start as low as $64/month for single and $210/month for family coverage).
Separate vacation and sick leave accruals that start on the first day and can roll over annually.
Nine paid holidays/year.
Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) retirement package with employer match.
Optional deferred compensation (457/401A) plan with employer match.
Professional training opportunities.
Family friendly and professional work environment.
Employee Discount Programs (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling)
The State's total compensation package features benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation. For a list of additional benefits, please visit the DAS website (https://das.iowa.gov/human-resources/benefits-glance) for more information.
Flexible work schedules (as approved by the supervisor).
Comments
The starting salary for new state (Executive Branch) employees is expected to be at the base of the pay range. Additional salary increases may occur after the first six months, and then annually (if applicable). The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation. Visit theDAS website (https://das.iowa.gov/state-employment/benefits-glance) for more benefit information.
Wildlife Program (https://www.iowadnr.gov/programs-services/iowas-wildlife)
Ensure you are kept up-to-date of this position by checking your email regularly for emails frominfo@govermentjobs.com (file://iowa.gov.state.ia.us/data/DNRUsers/mforbes0/My%20Documents/info@govermentjobs.com) . This is a system generated email from the DAS application system and it may be sent directly to your Junk/Spam folder.
DNR Application Tips (https://www.iowadnr.gov/About-DNR/Employment)
For more information about DNR Employment Opportunities and position specific notices, please visit theDNR Employment (https://www.iowadnr.gov/About-DNR/Employment) website.
The State of Iowa is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Iowa DNR 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.
Selectives
901 Wildlife Biology
6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both.
Minimum Qualification Requirements
The equivalent of two years of full time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or semi-skilled or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program;
OR
an equivalent combination of education and experience substituting 30 semester hours of college level course work in a biological or natural resources program for the required experience.
For additional information, please click on thislink to view the job description (https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/hr/documents/class\and\pay/JobClassDescriptions/NaturalResourcesTechnician1-05301.pdf) .
Additional Qualification Requirements
Certain designated positions in this job class require applicants to obtain: a Commercial Drivers License and endorsements; and/or certification as a water and wastewater system operator within a period of time as determined by the appointing authority at the time of hire.
Certain designated positions require the employee to be certified by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship as a Pesticide Applicator within a period of time as determined by the appointing authority at the time of hire.
Why Choose the State of Iowa?
At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.
Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:
Competitive Compensation:
Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.
Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyTotal Compensation Calculator (https://das.iowa.gov/media/3773/download?inline) .Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.
Health and Wellness:
Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.
Retirement Planning:
We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.Click here to learn more about IPERS (https://ipers.org/members) .
Paid Time Off:
Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.
Professional Development:
Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.
Join Us - Elevate Your Career:
Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?Click here (https://iowa.attract.neogov.com/recruitment/p/benefits) to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!
01
Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely.Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question.Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.
Yes - I understand and agree.
No
02
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?
No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
03
How many years do you have of full-time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or semi-skilled or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program?
I do not have of the required experience
Less than two years of full-time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or semi-skilled or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program
Two years or more of full-time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or semi-skilled or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program
04
How many years do you have of a combination of post high school education in a biological or natural resources program AND/OR full time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or semi-skilled or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program? 30 semester hours equals one year of experience.
I do not have any of the combined required education and/or experience
Less than two years of the combined required education and/or experience
Two years or more of the combined required education and/or experience
05
Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours or a combination of both in Wildlife Biology?
Yes
No
06
If you answered "Yes" to the question above - please list exactly HOW you meet it: list exact classes and credit hours, employer, dates and hours per week and exact duties. Please do not paste or state - See application or resume. If you answered no to the question above please @type in "No" in the box below.
07
After reviewing the list of essential functions for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources position you are applying for, please answer the following question: Based on the list of essential functions listed within the job announcement, are you able to perform the essential functions of this position, with or without a reasonable accommodation?
Yes
No
08
Reference Checks: If you are one of the top candidates for this position, the Hiring Team may wish to contact the references provided by you or any others we deem appropriate in order to verify your current or prior employment for the purpose of evaluation of your qualifications for the above position. Any information obtained through a reference check shall be kept confidential to the extent allowed under the Iowa Open Records Act (Iowa Code chapter 22). Please list below three professional business references, including at least one current or former supervisor. Please provide name, title, organization, relationship to you, phone, email, and full address of the reference. You may attach these to your application or @type them in the box provided below.
09
Please choose your preferred location(s) by marking the locations with #1, #2, and #3. Please mark only the locations you are interested in working at for the DNR.
Odessa Wildlife Unit - Wapello, Iowa
Iowa River Wildlife Unit - Chelsea, Iowa
Clear Lake Wildlife Unit - Ventura, Iowa
Required Question
Employer
State of Iowa
Agency
542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Address
6200 Park Ave
STE 200
Des Moines, Iowa, 50321
Website
http://www.iowadnr.gov/
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