Wildlife Technician

Position: Wildlife Technician 1
Location: Iowa

Wildlife Technician 1

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 three openings for a Wildlife Technician - one at each of these units:
Odessa Wildlife Unit in Wapello, Iowa;
Iowa River Wildlife Unit in Chelsea and Swisher, Iowa; and Clear Lake Wildlife Unit in Ventura, Iowa.

Habitat Management

• 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.

Facility Development And Maintenance

• Repair and maintain all WMU facilities, including buildings, signs, roads, bridges, and water control structures.
• Recommend and construct new facilities such as , boundary fences, roads, parking lots, and boat ramps.
• Operate heavy equipment, supervise contractors, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Project Administration

• 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.

Population Management

• 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.

Qualifications

• 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.

Essential Functions

• 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.

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.

Certifications and Licensure

• S‑130/S‑190 Firefighter Training Qualification
• S‑212 Chainsaw Safety Training Qualification
• Pesticide Applicator Certification
• Driver's License
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
• CPR/First Aid Certification

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, Integrity, High Productivity, Customer Focus, Team Player, Interpersonal Skills, Communication Skills, Self‑Management, Computer Skills, Technical Skills (wildlife management)

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)…