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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.

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.

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.

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.

Environmental Services


Seasonal Fisheries


Seasonal Wildlife and Parks


Water Patrol Officers


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.

Employment Positions listed below

[Jun 20] Position: Nonpoint Source Coordinator - Water Quality Bureau

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking an innovative and inspiring leader to join our team as the Nonpoint Source Program Manager. This is a vital role in managing and advancing Iowa's nonpoint source programs and policies in alignment with the Clean Water Act, Drinking Water Act, Iowa Nonpoint Source Management Plan, and Nutrient Reduction Strategy.

Job number: 24-04072
Location: DNR/Environmental Services/Water Quality/Water Quality Improvement
Hours: 8 am - 4:30 pm Monday-Friday with some travel and overnight and weekend events
Closing Date: June 20, 2024 – 11:59 p.m.

For specific job duties, requirements, and application information:
Position: Nonpoint Source Coordinator - Water Quality Bureau


[Jun 18] Position: Environmental Engineer Senior - Water Quality Bureau

The Department of Natural Resources is looking for a senior professional engineer to manage and coordinate the state sewage sludge (biosolids) program and serve as the lead for the non-funded municipal wastewater construction permit program in the Wastewater Engineering Section to ensure projects comply with the water quality standards and nutrient reduction strategy. The goal of this role is to enhance Iowa’s water quality to promote safe recreation, tourism, economic development and jobs growth throughout the state.

Job number: 24-04156
Location: DNR, ESD, WQB, Wastewater Engineering Section
Hours: 40 hours/week - regular office hours with occasional travel
Closing Date: June 18, 2024 – 11:59 p.m.

For specific job duties, requirements, and application information:
Position: Environmental Engineer Senior - Water Quality Bureau


[Jun 18] Position: Private Lands Biologist - Wildlife Bureau

Inform Iowa landowners of conservation programs available to them with the goal of improving wildlife habitat on Iowa’s private lands. Works with NRCS technical staff located in SW Iowa to provide assistance to private landowners to voluntarily plan and implement conservation practices. Provides biological training to 24 NRCS/SWCD field offices as well as local conservation partners on current wildlife research, principals, and practices of fish, forest, and wildlife management.

Provides technical support to 24 NRCS/SWCD field offices. Assist in designing prairie, wetland, and forest restoration projects and management plans.

Works with private landowners to provide consultation on specific wildlife species habitat requirements and the establishment and management of habitat practices in accordance with available USDA conservation programs and established best management practices and scientific principles.

Job number: 24-04127
Location: Natural Resources, Conservation & Recreation, Wildlife, Private Lands Program
Hours: 8:00 - 4:30 M-F, occasional extended hours, overnight travel and weekends
Closing Date: June 18, 2024 – 11:59 p.m.

For specific job duties, requirements, and application information:
Position: Private Lands Biologist - Wildlife Bureau


[Jun 17] Information Technology Specialist 4, Geospatial Application Developer

The State of Iowa Department of Management (DOM), Division of Information Technology (DoIT), is looking for a highly motivated candidate to join our team as an Information Technology Specialist 4 (ITS 4), Geospatial Application Developer.

This ITS 4 role will have responsibility to design, develop, test, support, and maintain GIS software applications used by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This position will work with other members of the agency and business area to support, maintain, and enhance GIS systems and applications that are used by the customers of the Iowa DNR.

Job number: 24-04188
Location: Des Moines - 50319 - Polk County, IA
Closing Date: June 17, 2024 – 11:59 p.m.

For specific job duties, requirements, and application information:
Information Technology Specialist 4, Geospatial Application Developer


[Jun 17] Position: Wildlife Technician 2 - Wildlife Bureau

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking a dedicated and experienced individual to join our team as a Natural Resources Technician 2 (NRT2) at the Rathbun Wildlife Unit. The NRT2 will play a vital role in project administration, habitat management, facility development, and maintenance, ensuring compliance with department policies and regulations while contributing to the conservation and enhancement of natural resources.

Job number: 24-04126
Location: Natural Resources, Conservation & Recreation, Wildlife, Management
Hours: 8:00 - 4:30 M-F, occasional extended hours, overnight travel and weekends
Closing Date: June 17, 2024 – 11:59 p.m.

For specific job duties, requirements, and application information:
Position: Wildlife Technician 2 - Wildlife Bureau


[Jun 13] Position: Environmental Specialist - Field Services & Compliance Bureau

Are you passionate about preserving Iowa's natural beauty and ensuring a sustainable environment for future generations? The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites dedicated individuals to join our mission of conservation and enhancement of natural resources. If you're ready to make a difference, we're looking for a committed Environmental Specialist to join our team at Field Office #2 in Mason City, Iowa. As an Environmental Specialist, you'll collaborate with a dynamic team of professionals to uphold environmental regulations and promote a safe and clean environment for the residents and businesses of Northcentral Iowa across a 15-county region. This role offers a unique opportunity to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the preservation of Iowa's ecological integrity.

Job number: 24-04051
Location: 2300 15th St. SW, Mason City, Iowa 50401
Hours: 80 hrs/2 weeks, 8:00-4:30, M-F, plus 24/7 on-call emergency response, statewide travel for meetings, and occasional evenings for public/other meetings
Closing Date: June 13, 2024 – 11:59 p.m.

For specific job duties, requirements, and application information:
Position: Environmental Specialist - Field Services & Compliance Bureau


[Jun 12] Position: Natural Resource Technician 2 - Fisheries Bureau

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is seeking a dedicated and passionate professional to join our team as an Assistant Biologist on the Natural Lake Fisheries Research Team. This team works with fisheries managers to identify problems affecting natural lake fisheries, designs and conducts research projects to solve these problems, assists fisheries managers in the implementation of research findings, and provides anglers with information they need to improve their fishing experience. As part of the Natural Lake Fisheries Research Team, you will play a crucial role in conducting and reporting research and engaging with the public to promote fishing and conservation.

Job number: 24-04039
Location: 122 252nd Ave., Spirit Lake, IA 51360
Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, nights, weekends, and travel are required
Closing Date: June 12, 2024 – 11:59 p.m.

For specific job duties, requirements, and application information:
Position: Natural Resource Technician 2 - Fisheries Bureau


Seasonal Positions

Seasonal Employment Positions listed below

Seasonal Employment

Seasonal Patrol Officer at Iowa State Parks:
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is seeking (14) Seasonal Patrol Officers with the Parks, Forests, and Preserves Bureau. The positions are located at various state parks across Iowa. The positions are temporary for seasonal employees of the Iowa DNR.

To apply: Candidates are screened and reviewed at the local level. Applicants should email a cover letter and resume to the contact at each location you are interested in serving. Please include available times for interviewing. Deadline to apply: May 1, 2024.
More: Seasonal Patrol Officer at Iowa State Parks


Seasonal Patrol Officer at Off-Highway Vehicle Parks:
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is seeking (6) Seasonal Patrol Officers with the Parks, Forests, and Preserves Bureau. The positions are located at various off-highway vehicle parks across Iowa. The positions are temporary or seasonal employees of the Iowa DNR.

To apply: Candidates are screened and reviewed at the local level. Applicants should email a cover letter and resume to the contact at each location you are interested in serving. Please include available times for interviewing. Deadline to apply: May 1, 2024.
More: Seasonal Patrol Officer at Off-Highway Vehicle Parks


Seasonal Park Employee:
Iowa State Parks are seeking motivated individuals to help maintain the park for the 2024 recreation season. Iowa State Parks provide challenging environments to expand park management skills and prepare potential candidates for a career in state parks or similar fields.
More: Seasonal Park Employee at Iowa State Parks
Seasonal Park Employee Opportunities at Iowa State Parks - MAP

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.

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.