Environmental Compliance Specialist

The Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter to their online application.

Come be part of a team dedicated to conserving Iowa’s natural resources and creating a lasting, sustainable legacy. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking dedicated individuals to help advance our mission of conserving and enhancing the state’s natural resources. If you hold a Bachelor’s Degree in a natural science, we encourage you to apply for the Environmental Specialist position at Field Office #2 in Mason City, Iowa.

In this role, you’ll work closely with a skilled team of environmental professionals to enforce regulations and promote a safe, healthy environment for communities and businesses throughout a 15-county region in Northcentral Iowa. This position offers the chance to collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders and play an important part in safeguarding Iowa’s environmental health and ecological resilience.

• Performing detailed on-site inspections of facilities such as public water supplies, wastewater treatment systems, animal feeding operations, air emission sources, stormwater controls, and underground storage tank systems. Duties include collecting samples, evaluating environmental data, and verifying compliance with applicable regulations.
• Applying advanced data management skills to retrieve, enter, analyze, and maintain environmental information in departmental databases. These data tools support investigations, compliance monitoring, and the development of accurate reports and communications.
• Communicating regulatory requirements and investigative results clearly and professionally with stakeholders. This includes engaging with public officials, environmental professionals, and regulated entities to support compliance and address environmental issues.
• Investigating reports of potential environmental violations and responding to hazardous chemical spills or releases from underground storage tanks. This involves interpreting regulations and scientific information, reviewing facility records, and performing on-site inspections and sampling.

If you’re passionate about protecting Iowa’s environment and want to learn more about Environmental Services Jobs within the Department and to apply, please visit our Department Employment webpage and watch our short video: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

• Perform inspections to determine compliance with environmental programs, including public water supplies, wastewater treatment systems, animal feeding operations, air pollution sources, stormwater controls, sanitary disposal sites, and regulated underground storage tanks.
• Clearly communicate technical information, regulatory requirements, policies, and guidance—both verbally and in writing—to public officials, industry professionals, and other stakeholders. Adapt effectively to changing priorities, work pressures, and challenging situations.
• Analyze data, create spreadsheets, use databases, and research reference materials with PC-based software. Communicate findings routinely and clearly to stakeholders, staff, and the public.
• Work outdoors for extended periods in physically demanding conditions, including traversing rough terrain and stream banks, stooping, climbing ladders, bending, and lifting up to 25 pounds.
• Travel frequently during the work week to conduct inspections, attend meetings, and investigate environmental complaints and spills.
• Respond to emergency calls while on-call and conduct necessary on-site follow-up.

• Accountability, Integrity, High Productivity, Customer Focus, Team Player, Interpersonal Skills, Communication Skills, Computer Skills, Self-Management, Technical Skills (Environmental compliance/regulations/rules).
• Must possess or obtain a valid Iowa driver’s license.

• 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…