| Location | Des Moines, IA |
| Salary | $54,350.40–$81,972.80 Per Year |
Environmental Compliance Data & Reporting Specialist
Salary
$54,350.40 - $81,972.80 Annually
Location
Des Moines - 50321 - Polk County, IA
Job Type
Full-time
Job Number
27-00897
Agency
542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Opening Date
09/28/2026
Closing Date
10/12/2026 11:59 PM Central
LinkedIn Tag
#LI-POST
Point of Contact
Ted Petersen, 515-250-3869, ted.petersen@dnr.iowa.gov
To Apply
The Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter to their online application.
Job Description
The Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter to their online application.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is seeking a detail-oriented, analytical Environmental Program Specialist to manage Iowas Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) Tier II Program and support Clean Water Act (CWA) compliance data systems.
In this role, you will act as the statewide Subject Matter Expert and primary contact for over 4,700 Iowa businesses handling hazardous chemicals. Additionally, you will drive data integrity, compliance tracking, and process improvement efforts supporting CWA regulations across Iowa.
Key Responsibilities:
A. Manages the Departments E-Plan (Tier II e-reporting system) contract. Attends training sessions and communicates important updates to regulated parties, first responders, and emergency management coordinators.
B. Access, input, interpret, and manage EPCRA Tier II reports in Department computer systems related to regulated facilities and environmental monitoring. Utilize computer systems in preparation for monitoring environmental compliance, retrieval of data in response to inquiries, and preparation of reports and other communications. This includes use of multiple database systems and the MS Office and Google Suite.
C. Investigates noncompliance activities and independently corresponds to entities utilizing verbal and/or written communication informing them of noncompliance. Alerts management when noncompliance cannot be accomplished and when directed informs EPA EPCRA coordinator of the situation. Acts as the liaison between DNR and EPA for EPCRA Tier II reporting issues.
D. Prepares written or statistical reports using computer software (including tables, charts, graphs) to disseminate, interpret, or explain information to agency staff, facility operators, governmental agencies, courts, private industry representatives, or the general public.
E. Provides technical assistance in specific environmental control program areas; to local boards of health, public and industrial officials, and the general public to facilitate compliance with appropriate regulations. Makes presentations to public and professional groups on the EPCRA Tier II reporting requirements and related topics to provide current information.
A. Access, input, interpret, and manage CWA compliance information related to regulated facilities and environmental monitoring. Utilize facility records and computer systems in preparation for monitoring environmental compliance, retrieval of data in response to inquiries, and preparation of reports and other communications. This includes use of multiple database systems and the MS Office Suite and Google Suite.
B. Identifies and coordinates routine data maintenance and transfer activities for multiple computer data systems. Works with other DNR, EPA and permitted facility staff to ensure data errors are addressed in a timely manner. Completes follow up activities to ensure CWA compliance data integrity.
C. Reviews and evaluates compliance monitoring data in an effort to identify noncompliance trends, emphasizing those entities in significant noncompliance. Creates a list of facilities with a history of non-compliance and shares with DNR field staff. Works with field staff to update the facilitys compliance status as activities are completed.
D. Provides guidance and expertise in compiling data and interpreting rules and regulations for management and field staff to provide assistance with inspection targeting and meeting program goals.
E. Prepares CWA compliance activity reports used by DNR management; assists with annual reporting preparation to EPA. Assist with planning agency annual inspection commitments while evaluating agency goals and national compliance initiatives. Collaborate with EPA and DNR staff when negotiating terms of the program performance grant.
F. Evaluates and assists management with coordination of process improvement efforts that will increase efficiency of data management systems, including electronic Discharge Monitoring Reports (e-DMR) submittals.
Additionally, this position will assist with Department emergency planning activities through collaboration with agency management and other subject matter experts while representing DNR at the State Emergency Operations Center.
Essential Functions
Determines compliance with environmental programs, including but not limited to EPCRA and Clean Water Act programs.
Reviews technical reports for accuracy and completeness, including safety data sheets for thousands of hazardous chemicals and CWA monthly discharge monitoring reports.
Communicates clearly and concisely, orally and in writing, technical information, regulatory requirements, department policies, procedures, and guidance to public officials, industrial professionals, and others.
Uses PC based computer systems and software, routinely and effectively, for oral and written communication, and to utilize databases, develop spreadsheets, research reference documents, and analyze data.
Takes instructions or requests from Supervisor and Lead Worker.
Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with management, DNR staff, stakeholders and the public.
Adjusts to change, work pressures, or difficult situations.
Demonstrates initiative, a customer service and team orientation, and high standards of ethical conduct.
May travel periodically during the work week with some overnight stays.
Assist with emergency planning activities.
Demonstrates regular and punctual attendance.
Critical Job Competencies
Accountability, Integrity, High Productivity, Customer Focus, Team Player, Interpersonal Skills, Communication Skills,
Computer Skills, Self-Management, Technical Skills (Environmental compliance/regulations/rules).
What You Get From Us:
(Premiums can start as low as $64/month for single and $210/month for family coverage).
Comments
Must possess or obtain a valid Iowa driver's license
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 Link: https://www.iowadnr.gov/environmental-protection/spills-emergency-planning/chemical-inventory-reporting
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.
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in a 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.
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.
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?
03
Have you graduated from an accredited college or university with a Bachelors Degree in a natural science?
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.
05
Essential Functions of the Position: 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? Please indicate your response.
06
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/