Environmental Specialist - Watershed Coordinator

Salary : $52,249.60 - $78,790.40 AnnuallyLocation : Toledo - 52342 - Tama County, IAJob Type: Full-timeJob Number: 25-00264Agency: 009 Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land StewardshipOpening Date: 10/02/2024Closing Date: 10/13/2024 11:59 PM CentralLinkedIn Tag: #LI-POSTPoint of Contact: ****** Description Are you passionate about agriculture and committed to preserving Iowa's natural resources? Join the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) as we strive to support our local farmers while protecting our water quality and environment.About IDALS: At IDALS, we are dedicated to connecting Iowans with vital programs and information concerning crops, food safety standards, livestock, and more. Through collaboration with local farmers markets and agricultural communities, we foster a thriving industry that sustains Iowa's rich agricultural heritage.Position Overview: IDALS is currently seeking an Environmental Specialist for our Water Resources Bureau. In this role, you will serve as a watershed project coordinator, overseeing the management and coordination of local and regional water quality conservation projects. Based in the Toledo USDA Service Center, you will collaborate with multiple Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) to support the implementation of the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy.Key Responsibilities:Here's some of what you will be doing: •Collaborate with agencies, groups, and individuals to plan and implement water quality conservation projects. •Work directly with farmers and landowners to implement best management practices aimed at improving water quality. •Conduct assessments and evaluations to monitor project progress and effectiveness. •Plan and execute informational and educational programs to raise awareness about conservation practices. •Utilize technology and monitoring techniques to identify resource needs and innovative solutions. •Assist with financial reporting and budgeting for projects.Qualifications:Here's what we're looking for in our ideal candidate: •Strong working knowledge of agriculture, with experience or educational background in agronomy, soil conservation, nutrient management, or agricultural operations preferred. •Passion for water conservation and environmental stewardship. •Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including farmers, landowners, cooperatives, retailers, and government agencies. •Proficiency in utilizing technology and tools such as GIS for project management and evaluation. •Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.Benefits as a State of Iowa Employee: Working for the State of Iowa comes with its perks. In addition to a competitive salary, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth:•Paid Time Off: Enjoy the flexibility of vacation, holidays, and sick leave. •Great Benefits: Excellent Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Options. •Retirement Plan: Secure your future with IPERS Retirement and a deferred compensation plan. •Flexibility: Make the most of Flexible Spending Accounts (medical and dependent care). •Life Insurance: Free Life Insurance - peace of mind. •Support: Access Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs.Learn more about the benefits available as a State of Iowa Employee here.Join us today!Join us in making a difference in Iowa's agriculture and environmental landscape. Apply today to become a part of our dedicated team at IDALS!For more information about the Water Resources Bureau, visit https://iowaagriculture.gov/waterresources-bureau and watch our informational video https://iowaagriculture.gov/water-resourcesbureau. Minimum Qualification Requirements Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in natural scienceORan 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 .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-friendlyGain 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.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?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 Bachelor's 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 Required Question