Wildlife Technician 1

State of Iowa • State of Iowa - See Job Description, IA

20h • Onsite

About The Position

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 two openings for a Wildlife Technician, one at each of these units: Rathbun Wildlife Unit in Centerville, Iowa and Grand River Wildlife Unit in Kellerton, Iowa. Applicants are encouraged to upload a current resume and cover letter to their online application.

Requirements

• 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.
• 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.
• Must have, or be able to obtain, the following certifications and licensure: S-130/S-190 Firefighter Training Qualification, S-112 Chainsaw Safety Training Qualification, Pesticide Applicator Certification, Driver's License, Commercial Driver's License (CDL), CPR/First Aid Certification.
• 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.
• Wildlife Biology 6 months’ experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both.

Nice To Haves

• College or university students that are pending graduation in summer 2026 with a Bachelor’s Degree in a natural science are eligible to apply for this position.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Benefits

• 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).
• Flexible work schedules (as approved by the supervisor).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree