Position Website and Application Information
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is seeking a dedicated and passionate individual to join our team as a Fish Management Biologist in the Decorah Fish Management District. As the Fish Management Biologist, you will play a pivotal role in managing the public fishing waters within this district. Your responsibilities will include conducting administrative and technical supervision of the Decorah Fish Management Program, collecting and analyzing data, implementing habitat enhancement projects, expanding public fishing opportunities, and fostering public awareness of our conservation efforts.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct administrative and technical supervision of the Decorah Fish Management Program to achieve the objectives and goals set by the DNR and Fisheries Bureau.
- Collect fish population and water quality data, conduct habitat assessments, and manage warm water and cold water aquatic ecosystems.
- Determine fishery management needs and develop strategies to ensure high-quality angling experiences.
- Monitor lake and stream fishery resources using standard survey techniques and document findings.
- Collaborate with agencies and private groups to monitor and improve water quality and aquatic habitat in lakes, rivers, and streams.
- Propose, design, and conduct research projects to assess fish populations and aquatic resources.
- Develop and implement management plans to protect and enhance habitat, fish, and water quality.
- Expand public fishing opportunities by acquiring angler access easements on rivers and streams.
- Lead instream habitat improvement projects and coordinate with private landowners.
- Assist with fish kill investigations in lakes, rivers, and streams.
- Lead the development and submission of compelling grant proposals to federal, state, and private funding sources to increase funding for fish management activities.
- Conduct public relations activities to inform the community about our projects, activities, and fishing conditions.
- Provide training and guidance to team members to ensure productivity, motivation, and safety consciousness.
Why Join Us:
- Make a tangible difference in conserving Iowa's natural resources and enhancing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
- Work alongside dedicated professionals who share your passion for environmental stewardship.
- Inclusive work environment promoting cooperation and teamwork.
- Enjoy a dynamic and challenging work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Collaborate with diverse stakeholders for impactful fisheries management.
- Opportunities for professional growth through training and development.
- 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 $61/month for single and $205/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.
- Employee Assistance Program.
- Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) retirement package with employer match.
- Optional deferred compensation (457/401A) plan with employer match.
- Professional training opportunities.
- Flexible schedules and opportunities for hybrid telework (as approved by supervisor).
- Family friendly and professional work environment.
- Employee Discount Programs (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling).
For a list of additional benefits, please visit the DAS website for more information.
If you're ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to the conservation of Iowa's aquatic ecosystems, apply now to join our team as the Natural Resource Biologist for the Decorah Fish Management District. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the future of our natural heritage. We look forward to welcoming a dedicated and enthusiastic individual to our team!
Essential Functions:
- Identifies and solves problems using advanced knowledge of fish science and management of aquatic ecosystems to
- maintain or enhance fishery resources.
- Leads implementation of watershed management strategies through Best Management Practices and Low Impact
- Development Protocols to protect and enhance lake and stream water quality.
- Surveys fish populations in lakes and streams using a variety of standard and specialized fish sampling gears and does so in a scientifically acceptable, efficient, and effective manner consistent with Standard Fish Sampling Operating Procedures.
- Communicates management activities effectively both written and oral communications, including formal presentations
- to professional groups and the public.
- Lifts and carries equipment and supplies that weigh up to 50 pounds and performs physical labor, outdoors, in any type of weather and in rugged terrain.
- Leads a team of fisheries professionals and directs their daily activities.
Critical Job Competencies
Accountability, Customer Focus, High Productivity, Integrity, Interpersonal Skills, Team Player, Communication Skills (oral and written), Leadership Skills, Computer Skills, Project Management, Technical Competence - (coldwater streams, cool/warmwater river systems, statistical/analytical skills)
Public Pesticide Applicator Certification required within six months of employment.
The Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter to their DAS on-line application.
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.
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.
The DNR seeks to hire individuals who wish to support our mission, which is to conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organization, to improve the quality of life in Iowa and ensure a legacy for future generations.
Selectives
900 Fisheries Biology
6 months’ experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both.
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Graduation from an accredited four year college or university with a bachelor's degree in the biological sciences, including at least twelve semester hours (or the academic equivalent) in fisheries biology, or nine semester hours in wildlife biology, and the equivalent of two years of full-time work experience in professional fisheries work or two years of full-time work experience in professional wildlife work;
OR
a master's degree in fisheries biology, wildlife biology, or fisheries management or wildlife management;
OR
employees with current continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes experience equal to thirty-six months of full-time work as a Natural Resources Technician 1 or 2 shall be qualified.
For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description. (Download PDF reader)
Additional Qualification Requirements
- Certain designated positions in this job class require applicants to obtain the required Commercial Drivers License and endorsements within a period of time as determined by the appointing authority at the time of hire.
- Certain designated positions require the employee to be certified by the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship as a Pesticide Applicator within a period of time as determined by the appointing authority.
