Natural Resources Technician 2

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Natural Resources Technician 2

Salary

$45,864.00 - $67,974.40 Annually

Location

Decorah - 52101 - Winneshiek County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

25-01234

Agency

542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Opening Date

11/08/2024

Closing Date

11/25/2024 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

Jim Jansen, 563-920-5915; jim.jansen@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.

• Description

• Benefits

• Questions

Job Description

Only applicants who meet the Minimum Qualification Requirements and meet all selective requirements (listed below) will be placed on the eligible list.

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual to fill our Natural Resources Technician 2 positions. This position plays a crucial role in supporting the Private Lands Coordinator and Forestry section staff, assisting private landowners with forest stewardship, promoting forestry-related education, and providing public land management services. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of forestry principles, excellent administrative skills, and the ability to work closely with landowners, forestry staff, and the public.

Administrative Duties:

• Complete and submit spatially-based reports and spreadsheet reports to the Supervisor, Private Lands Coordinator, and Forestry section staff by quarterly deadlines.

• Ensure the timely submission of claims, timesheets, and vehicle reports as per state office requirements.

• Prioritize and complete cost share applications and related administrative tasks within specified deadlines.

• Attend and complete department training as assigned by the Supervisor.

Landowner Assistance:

• Contact private landowners through personal outreach, referrals, and informational meetings to develop forest stewardship plans focused on forest health, wildlife habitat, water quality, and soil erosion.

• Provide landowners with information regarding Federal, State, and local cost-share programs and explain available funding options.

• Mark timber for commercial and TSI harvests in cases where a woodland stewardship plan is in place.

• Assist cities with urban forestry initiatives and activities.

• Complete Forest Stewardship monitoring and Tree Farm re-inspections annually and submit nominations for Woodland Owner of the Year by the required dates.

Public Relations and Education:

• Work in collaboration with Forestry Extension to organize and conduct field days and related programs.

• Publicize Division's programs and promote woodland and urban forest management through news articles, presentations, and outreach activities.

• Collaborate with Forestry Section staff to support outreach programs focused on forest health, urban forestry, wood utilization, and fire prevention.

Public Land Management:

• Prepare stand maps and provide management recommendations for DNR state lands, offering field assistance with guidance from a Forester II.

Other Duties:

• Complete any additional tasks as assigned by the Supervisor, ensuring full cooperation and effective completion.

Essential Functions

What we are looking for in the successful candidate:

1. Recommends to landowners the appropriate forest management prescription to achieve desired results.

2. Communicates with landowners, NGO's and other partners effectively.

3. Explains Federal, State and local cost share programs to landowners.

4. Function independently or within a small work team to accomplish activities.

5. Perform strenuous work and work under inclement conditions at times.

6. Knowledge of forestry management techniques and perform techniques used to conduct basic forestry management projects.

7. Work outside under any type of weather conditions and to withstand physically demanding work.

8. Knowledge of basic state and federal laws, rules, and regulations as they relate to forestry resources.

9 Must be able to operate a motor vehicle.

7. Must display a high standard of ethical conduct.

Applicants must meet requirements of DAS Selective Certification #907 - Forestry, which requires 12 semester hours, 6 months continuous full-time experience, or a combination of both, in any of the following:

• Dendrology

• Silviculture

• Forest management, tree planting and habitat management

• Timber stand improvement

• Forest planning

• Planning and mapping using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for forest improvement projects

• Forest inventory including tree identification

• Reforestation and/or forest health data collection and monitoring

Must have, or be able to obtain, the following certifications and licensure:

S-130/S-190 Firefighter Training Qualification

S-212 Chainsaw Safety Training Qualification

Driver's License

CPR/First Aid Certification

Critical Job Competencies

Competencies: Accountability, Integrity, High Productivity, Interpersonal Skills, Team Player, Communication Skills, Self-Management, Customer Focus, Computer Skills, Technical Skills (wildlife/forestry 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) plan with employer match.

• Professional training opportunities.

• Family friendly and professional work environment.

• Employee Discount Programs (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling)

• Flexible work schedule (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 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 theDAS website (https://das.iowa.gov/human-resources/benefits-glance) for more benefit information.

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

DNR Application Tips

For more information about DNR Employment Opportunities and position specific notices, please visit the DNR Employment (https://www.iowadnr.gov/About-DNR/Employment) website.

The State of Iowa is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

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.

Selectives

907 Forestry

12 semester hours, 6 months continuous full-time experience, or a combination of both, in any of the following: • Dendrology • Silviculture • Forest management, tree planting and habitat management • Timber stand improvement • Forest planning • Planning and mapping using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for forest improvement projects • Forest inventory including tree identification • Reforestation and/or forest health data collection and monitoring

Minimum Qualification Requirements

The equivalent of three years of full time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program;

OR

an equivalent combination of education and experience substituting 30 semester hours of college level course work in a biological or natural resources program for each year of the required experience;

OR

employees with current continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes the equivalent of 12 months of full-time experience as a Natural Resources Technician 1 shall be considered as qualified.

For additional information, please click on thislink to view the job description. (https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/hr/documents/class_and_pay/JobClassDescriptions/NaturalResourcesTechnician2-05331.pdf)

Additional Qualification Requirements

Certain designated positions require the employee to be certified by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship as a Pesticide Applicator within a period of time as determined by the appointing authority at the time of hire.

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-friendlyTotal Compensation Calculator (https://das.iowa.gov/media/3773/download?inline) .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 (https://ipers.org/members) .

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 (https://iowa.attract.neogov.com/recruitment/p/benefits) 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

  How many years do you have of full time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program?

• Less than three years of the full-time experience identified

• Three years or more of the full-time experience identified

  04

  How many years do you have of a combination of college level course work in a biological or natural resources program AND/OR full time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program? 30 semester hours equals one year of experience.

• I do not have of the education AND/OR experience

• Less than three years of the combined education and/or experience

• Three years or more of the combined education and/or experience

  05

  Are you a current State of Iowa employee - executive branch? IF YES - How many months do you have of experience in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 for the State of Iowa?

• I am not a current State of Iowa employee

• I do not have any experience in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 for the State of Iowa

• Less than 12 months of experience in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 for the State of Iowa

• 12 months or more of experience in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 for the State of Iowa

  06

  Does your application demonstrate that you have 12 semester hours, 6 months continuous full-time experience, or a combination of both, in any of the following:

• Dendrology

• Silviculture

• Forest management, tree planting and habitat management

• Timber stand improvement

• Forest planning

• Planning and mapping using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for forest improvement projects

• Forest inventory including tree identification

• Reforestation and/or forest health data collection and monitoring?

• Yes

• No

  07

  If you answered "Yes" to the question above - please list exactly HOW you meet it: list exact classes and credit hours, employer, dates and hours per week and exact duties. Please do not paste or state - See application or resume. If you answered no to the question above please type in "No" in the box below.

  08

  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?

• Yes

• No

  09

  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

Agency

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/

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