Environmental Specialist

Environmental Specialist

Salary

$54,350.40 - $81,972.80 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50321 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

27-01329

Agency

542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Opening Date

11/06/2026

Closing Date

11/16/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

Mark Moeller, mark.moeller@dnr.iowa.gov, 515-214-9532

To Apply

The Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter describing how their work experience and education match the job responsibilities and core competencies.

• 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 describing how their work experience and education match the job responsibilities and core competencies.

The Department is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Water Quality & Beach Monitoring Specialist to support our water quality monitoring, lab analysis, and Clean Water Act initiatives. In this role, you will be instrumental in safeguarding public health and natural resources by conducting field water quality sampling, performing laboratory analyses for harmful algal bloom (HAB) toxins, and ensuring high-integrity water quality data across state water bodies.

The ideal candidate blends strong technical, field, and laboratory skills with administrative capability, quality assurance, and collaborative field leadership. Key responsibilities of the position include:

• Support the Beach Monitoring Program Coordinator and the Section with extensive field work to support the ambient water quality monitoring program, including field sampling at designated waters and beaches.
• Perform bench laboratory analyses focusing on harmful algal bloom (HAB) toxins and related water quality parameters.
• Assist the Integrated Report program co-leads with collecting, formatting, and synthesizing data for surface water quality assessments (lakes, rivers, and streams).
• Collaborate with senior staff and supervisors to perform rigorous Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) checks across multiple section water monitoring programs.
• Conduct formal site visits and technical audits of contract laboratories to ensure compliance with quality standards and data integrity protocols.
• Support program administration by assisting with training of water quality monitoring seasonal field staff, contract and SOP development, and data summaries.
• Carry out other related programmatic and operational duties as assigned to support the Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Section.

Essential Functions

• Conduct field work in support of ambient water quality monitoring programs.
• Must be able to work in adverse weather conditions, work on uneven terrain, endure long days in the field with overnight stays.
• Utilize computers, databases, and software products in order to effectively collect and manage water quality data.
• Produces quality work products in a timely manner to effectively communicate science to the general public, both orally and in written work products.

Critical Job Competencies

Accountability, Integrity, High Productivity, Communication Skills, Team Player, Customer Focus, Interpersonal Skills,

Computer Skills, Self Management Skills, Project Management, and Technical Skills in water quality sampling, field, and GIS.

1. Must be able to lift 50 pounds.

2. Must have a valid drivers license.

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 for more information.
• Flexible work schedules (as approved by the supervisor).
• Opportunities for hybrid telework (as approved by the supervisor).
• Workout/Gym facilities available onsite at 6200 Park Ave.

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 the DAS website for more benefit information.

Program Webpage Link https://www.iowadnr.gov/environmental-protection/water-quality/water-quality-monitoring-assessment

Pending Applicants: College or university students that are pending graduation in December of 2026 with a Bachelor's Degree in an environmental science and/or related water related degrees are eligible to apply for this position.

Ensure you are kept up-to-date of this position by checking your email regularly for emails from 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

For more information about DNR Employment Opportunities and position specific notices, please visit the DNR Employment website.

The State of Iowa is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov.

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

Limnology

Six months' experience or nine semester hours in a combination of limnology, aquatic ecology, or other water science coursework that provide the applicant with the following:

• Knowledge of the chemical constituents and physical properties of freshwaters.
• Understanding of the ecology of lotic and lentic ecosystems and basic familiarity with the aquatic plant and animal groups of these ecosystems.
• Ability to summarize and interpret water quality data from lotic and lentic systems.

OR

Water Resources

6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both that encompasses the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of surface and ground water resources including the following:

• Surface water hydrology
• Ground water hydrology
• Hydraulics
• Water resources engineering
• Natural resources conservation engineering
• Water supply engineering
• Water quality engineering
• Erosion and sediment transport
• Surface or ground water chemistry
• Watershed dynamics
• Limnology
• Stream or wetland ecology

The Water Resources selective is distinct from the Water Supply, Waste Water, Water Quality, and Chemistry selectives in that the Water Resources selective applies to the management, engineering, and quality analysis of surface and groundwater resources in the natural environment rather than the processing of water in a waste water or drinking water treatment plant or the analysis of water samples in a laboratory.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelors Degree in natural science;

OR

an equivalent combination of experience and education 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 the required education.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

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-friendly Total Compensation Calculator. 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.

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 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 college or university with a Bachelors Degree in a natural science?

• Yes
• No

04

How many years do you have of COMBINED post high school education and full-time professional work in an environmental, radiation control, environmental health or food sanitation program? 30 semester hours of the required education equals one year of experience.

• I do not have any of the required education and experience
• Two years or less of the required education and experience
• Two years to less than four years of the required education and experience
• Four years or more of the required education and experience

05

Does your application demonstrate that you have six months experience or nine semester hours in a combination of limnology, aquatic ecology, or other water science coursework that provide the applicant with the following:

• Knowledge of the chemical constituents and physical properties of freshwaters.
• Understanding of the ecology of lotic and lentic ecosystems and basic familiarity with the aquatic plant and animal groups of these ecosystems.
• Ability to summarize and interpret water quality data from lotic and lentic systems?
• Yes
• No

06

Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both that encompasses the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of surface and ground water resources including the following:

• Surface water hydrology
• Ground water hydrology
• Hydraulics
• Water resources engineering
• Natural resources conservation engineering
• Water supply engineering
• Water quality engineering
• Erosion and sediment transport
• Surface or ground water chemistry
• Watershed dynamics
• Limnology
• Stream or wetland ecology?

The Water Resources selective is distinct from the Water Supply, Waste Water, Water Quality, and Chemistry selectives in that the Water Resources selective applies to the management, engineering, and quality analysis of surface and groundwater resources in the natural environment rather than the processing of water in a waste water or drinking water treatment plant or the analysis of water samples in a laboratory.

• Yes
• No

07

If you answered "Yes" to either of the selective questions above - please list exactly HOW you meet Water Resources OR Limnology: list exact classes and credit hours, employer, dates and hours per week and exact duties. Please do not 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

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/