Job Information
Iowa Department of Administrative Services Natural Resources Biologist in Swisher, Iowa
Natural Resources Biologist
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Natural Resources Biologist
Salary
$54,766.40 - $83,012.80 Annually
Location
Swisher - 52338 - Johnson County, IA
Job Type
Full-time
Job Number
25-01158
Agency
542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Opening Date
11/01/2024
Closing Date
11/22/2024 11:59 PM Central
LinkedIn Tag
#LI-POST
Point of Contact
Bryan Hellyer, 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 Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter to their online application.
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.
Key Responsibilities:
• Coordinate activities of Unit personnel and oversee Wildlife Unit operations.
• Plan public area management and annual project schedules.
• Monitor expenditures, work performance, and policy compliance.
• Prepare Federal Aid project planning and documentation.
• Review land acquisition and make recommendations.
• Serve as permit liaison for Unit projects.
• Prepare capital development and operations plans.
• Coordinate with district supervisor in preparing the annual unit budget.
• Prepare progress reports and other required documents.
• Complete planning and reporting for properties managed under agreement with federal agencies.
• Respond to public inquiries and provide technical assistance.
• Coordinate with conservation agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders.
• Determine habitat goals and set objectives for public areas.
• Plan and oversee implementation of wildlife habitat management.
• Conduct surveys, inventories, and special biological investigations.
• Ensure compliance with state policies and safety standards.
• Participate in population monitoring efforts and research projects.
• Coordinate facility construction and liaise with Construction Services personnel.
Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Wildlife Management, Environmental Science, or related field.
• Previous experience in wildlife management, habitat conservation, or related field.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Proficiency in budgeting and financial management.
• Knowledge of federal and state regulations related to wildlife management.
• Willingness to undergo required training and obtain necessary certifications.
Essential Functions
• Leads the wildlife management unit staff in developing and implementing annual work plans, budgets, and reports.
• Determines habitat goals and oversees habitat management activities for public wildlife management areas.
• Responds to public requests for information and assistance regarding wildlife management areas, wildlife populations, hunting and trapping seasons.
• Provides technical assistance on wildlife habitat restoration and management to private landowners and other conservation agencies and organizations.
• Coordinates wildlife habitat programs and projects with federal agencies. local governments, and NGOs.
• Communicates with the public and facilitates public input on wildlife habitat and population management programs, projects, and activities.
• Work outside under any type of weather conditions and to withstand physically demanding work.
• Knowledge of basic state and federal laws, rules, and regulations as they relate to wildlife resources management activities for public wildlife management areas.
• Must display a high standard of ethical conduct.
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 candidates must be able to obtain/maintain the following:
Pesticide License
CPR/First Aide certification
Chain Saw Safety Certification
Basic Wildland Firefighter Training
Possess and maintain valid driver’s license
CDL
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
Accountability, Customer Focus, High Productivity, Integrity, Interpersonal Skills, Team Player, Communication Skills (oral and written), Leadership Skills, Self-Management Skills, Computer Skills, Project Management, Technical Competence - (Wildlife Management and Leadership)
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.
Flexible schedules (as approved by supervisor).
Family friendly and professional work environment.
Employee Discount Programs (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling)
Comments:
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.
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 the DAS website (https://das.iowa.gov/human-resources/benefits-glance) for more benefit information.
For more information about DNR Employment Opportunities and position specific notices, please visit the DNR 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
901Wildlife Biology
6 months’ experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both.
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Graduation from an accredited four year college or university with a bachelor's degree in the biological sciences, including at least twelve semester hours (or the academic equivalent) in fisheries biology, or nine semester hours in wildlife biology, and the equivalent of two years of full-time work experience in professional fisheries work or two years of full-time work experience in professional wildlife work;
OR
a master's degree in fisheries biology, wildlife biology, or fisheries management or wildlife management;
OR
employees with current continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes experience equal to thirty-six months of full-time work as a Natural Resources Technician 1 or 2 shall be qualified.
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/NaturalResourcesBiologist-05340.pdf)
Additional Qualification Requirements
Certain designated positions in this job class require applicants to obtain the required Commercial Drivers License and endorsements 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 Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship as a Pesticide Applicator within a period of time as determined by the appointing authority.
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
Have you graduated from an accredited four year college or university with a bachelor's degree in the biological sciences with at least twelve semester hours (or the academic equivalent) in fisheries biology,ORnine semester hours in wildlife biology?IF YES
How many years do you have of full-time work experience in professional fisheries or wildlife work?
Not applicable – I do not have a bachelor's degree in the biological sciences
No full-time work experience in professional fisheries or wildlife work
Less than one year of full-time work experience in professional fisheries or wildlife work
One year to less than two years of full-time work experience in professional fisheries or wildlife work
Two or more years of full-time work experience in professional fisheries or wildlife work
04
Do you have a Master's degree in fisheries biology, wildlife biology, or fisheries management or wildlife management?
Yes
No
05
Are you a current State of Iowa employee (executive branch)? IF YES - How many years of experience do you have in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 or 2 for the State of Iowa?
Not applicable – I am not a State of Iowa employee
Less than three years of experience in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 or 2
Three or more years of experience in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 or 2
06
Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours or a combination of both in Wildlife Biology?
Yes
No
07
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.
08
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
09
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.
Required Question
Agency
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/
Apply
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