Environmental Specialist - Polk Co (Temporary)

State of Iowa•Des Moines - 50313 - Polk County, IA

About The Position

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s Mines and Minerals Bureau is hiring a temporary, part-time Environmental Specialist to support reclamation of abandoned coal mines, primarily in southeast Iowa. The role can work up to 780 hours per year, with flexible weekly hours. Funding is available for multiple years, and the position may lead to full-time opportunities with the department. Under the direct supervision of professionals, the employee will update the federal e-AMLIS database with priority features on abandoned mine lands. The position involves substantial fieldwork, including traversing sites, conducting reconnaissance, scheduling field visits, and completing on-site inspections. The employee will communicate with landowners about their interest in the reclamation program and assist in preparing environmental clearance documentation for NEPA, wetlands, and cultural resources through USFWS, ACOE, IDNR, and SHPO. The employee will also work with team members across their duties to gain a well-rounded experience. The position is supervised by the Mines and Minerals Bureau Chief. Mines and Minerals staff coordinate day-to-day activities and assist with scheduling and training. The position does not supervise other employees, and performance is reviewed regularly by the Bureau Chief. Compensation is $26.13 per hour.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in natural science from an accredited college or university, or an equivalent combination of education and experience substituting one year of full-time professional work in an environmental, radiation control, environmental health, or food sanitation program for each year (30 semester hours) of required education.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to walk over slippery, wet, or uneven terrain.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and proficiency in communication.
  • Computer experience.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and demonstrate high standards of ethical conduct.

Nice To Haves

  • A degree in biological, environmental, geology, agricultural, or science fields is described as ideal.

Responsibilities

  • Update the federal e-AMLIS database with priority features located on abandoned mine lands in southeast Iowa.
  • Traverse abandoned mine land sites and complete reconnaissance activities.
  • Communicate with landowners regarding their interest in the abandoned mine land reclamation program.
  • Assist with developing environmental clearance documentation for NEPA, wetlands, and cultural resources via USFWS, ACOE, IDNR, and SHPO.
  • Schedule field visits and complete on-site inspections.
  • Maintain good working relationships with co-workers to promote productivity.
  • Work with other team members as they complete their duties.
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