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

27-00288

Agency

542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Opening Date

07/29/2026

Closing Date

8/13/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

Brian Hutchins, brian.hutchins@dnr.iowa.gov, 515-681-3136

To Apply

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

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Job Description

Are you passionate about being a good steward to our natural resources, educating others on how to protect the environment, and using science and math research methods to assist others with the protection of our state air quality? If so, you might be that perfect fit for an open position within the Iowa Department of Natural Resources' Air Quality Bureau.

In this position, you will assist in implementing the state ambient air monitoring network so that the public, stakeholders, and policy makers have adequate data to make informed decisions regarding Iowa's air quality.

Specifically, this position will work to review and update annual ambient air monitoring contracts with local air programs and the State Hygienic Laboratory.

This includes assisting in managing activities such as reviewing invoices and tracking budgets, assessing contract deliverables, reviewing reports, conducting audits, and participating in contractor meetings to review performance. This work also includes coordinating with contractors to site new or relocate existing monitors in accordance with Bureau monitoring objectives and EPA siting criteria, as well as working with contractors to develop equipment replacement plans, purchase monitoring equipment, maintain equipment inventory, and track equipment budgets. In addition, the position develops, reviews and updates Standard Operating Procedures, Quality Assurance Project Plans and Quality Management Plans. This work may involve the development of new monitoring methods and laboratory analytical procedures or other special purpose monitoring plans.

Additional responsibilities include assembling, reviewing and performing statistical analysis of ambient air data to evaluate results and monitor performance. This work involves computing pollutant design values to determine compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS); assisting in preparing annual State and Local Air Monitoring Stations (SLAMS) network data certification for submittal to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); developing an annual ambient air monitoring network plan for stakeholder input and submittal to the EPA; and developing other reports to summarize air quality data for the public, stakeholders, and air quality planners.

This position will routinely check pollution levels recorded by continuous air monitors and respond to pollutant exceedances. As required, the position will notify the public of elevated pollution levels through press releases or other agencies, respond to media and public inquiries; develop and update pollutant exceedance reports and provide stakeholders with data reports from EPA's AQS database. This area of work will include assigned coverage on some weekends.

Essential Functions:

• Read, interpret, and understand ambient air monitoring regulations, guidance, and quality assurance procedures.

• Perform statistical analysis of air monitoring data and interpret results.

• Prepare professional reports and plans for the public and EPA.

• Gather relevant information systematically, seek input from others, consider a broad range of issues or factors, grasp complexities, and perceive relationships among data, events, problems or issues.

• Understand and evaluate technical information related to the job.

• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, with staff, clients, consultants, stakeholders, other government officials, media, and the general public.

Critical Job Competencies:

Accountability, Attention to Detail, Computer Skills, Communication Skills (Written and Oral), Complex Problem Solving, Common Sense, Critical Thinking and Reasoning, Customer Focus, Flexibility, High Productivity, Integrity, Interpersonal Skills, Self-Management, Team Player, Technical Skills (emphasis on air quality rules, policies and procedures).

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 successful candidate will need to be able to:

1. Work independently to plan, organize and deliver consistent results with minimal supervision.

2. Demonstrate a capacity to adjust to change, work pressures or difficult situations without undue stress.

3. Encourage and demonstrate initiative, a customer service and team orientation, and display of high standards of ethical conduct.

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/air-quality/monitoring-ambient-air

Video Link: https://youtu.be/HKZcWDtoKXs?si=4M7qIlz_qRkAEK_4

Ensure you are kept up-to-date on the status of this position by checking your email regularly for emails from info@governmentjobs.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 Employmentwebsite.

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 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

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.

• Yes
• No

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/