Fish Biologist

Fish Biologist
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Fish Biologist
Salary
$53,164.80 - $80,600.00 Annually
Location
Elkader - 52043 - Clayton County, IA
Job Type
Full-time
Job Number
24-03997
Agency
542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Opening Date
05/23/2024
Closing Date
6/6/2024 11:59 PM Central
LinkedIn Tag
#LI-POST
Point of Contact
Mike Siepker, ,
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
Only applicants who meet the Minimum Qualification Requirements and meet all selective requirements (listed below) will be placed on the eligible list.
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 qualified and passionate Fish Biologist to join our team at the Big Spring Fish Hatchery. Nestled in the picturesque rolling hills and limestone bluffs of Northeast Iowa's Driftless Area, Big Spring Hatchery is dedicated to supplying streams and rivers with healthy fish that support important recreational fisheries. The hatchery's namesake, Big Spring, is Iowa's largest cold water spring, providing essential water for our 24 raceways and 4 earthen ponds. The Big Spring watershed is renowned for its unique karst landscape, featuring large sinkholes, losing streams, and caves. This area is a showcase for groundwater studies and offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation.
The Fish Biologist at Big Spring Hatchery plays a crucial role in both hatchery operations and regional fisheries management. This position is responsible for the efficient operation of the hatchery, ensuring trout production and distribution goals are met while also assisting in managing the surrounding watershed and area fisheries.
Key Responsibilities
Trout Culture and Distribution:
+ Oversee all aspects of trout culture, including feeding regimes, growth monitoring, and water quality management.
+ Implement disease prevention and control measures.
+ Continuously improve fish culture methods and techniques.
+ Coordinate with regional supervisors and biologists to fulfill trout stocking requests.
+ Manage the distribution of trout, including loading, transporting, and releasing fish.
+ Maintain detailed records of trout culture activities.
+ Collaborate with research personnel to optimize trout culture practices.
Fisheries Management:
+ Provide technical support to Decorah and Manchester regional fish management districts.
+ Establish water sampling regimes and assist with fisheries research.
+ Maintain public water access areas and recommend improvements.
+ Investigate pollution spills and fish kills in coordination with appropriate personnel.
+ Work with private landowners to expand public fishing access and enhance trout stream habitat and water quality.
+ Prepare and submit detailed reports on work accomplished and long-range planning.
Facility and Equipment Maintenance:
+ Maintain hatchery buildings, grounds, and equipment.
+ Monitor and upkeep infrastructure such as plumbing and ponds.
+ Operate and maintain heavy machinery and manual tools.
+ Oversee shop area and ensure proper care for tools and equipment.
Team Leader Responsibilities:
+ Provide on-site direction to hatchery staff, including scheduling and workload distribution.
+ Promote a teamwork atmosphere and encourage professional growth.
+ Ensure all staff have access to necessary training.
+ Oversee the training and work of team members to ensure safety and efficiency.
+ Report on work assignments and activities, including employee recognition and support needs.
The Big Spring Fish Biologist position also has administrative, training, and meeting duties typical of a State of Iowa employee. All Fisheries Bureau employees serve a role in the Department's Recruitment, Retention and Reactivation Program and other outreach and education efforts. This requires them to maintain knowledge of DNR programs, projects, and issues and communicate information to general public or refer questions to proper DNR personnel.
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.
Join us at Big Spring Hatchery and make a difference in conserving Iowa's natural resources while enjoying a rewarding career in one of the state's most beautiful and ecologically significant areas!
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Essential Functions
+ Identifies and solves problems using advanced knowledge of fish culture science to maintain or enhance hatcher production.
+ Identifies fishery management needs and collaborates with team members and partners to address those needs.
+ Leads implementation of fish distribution plans to meet production and management goals.
+ Communicates culture activities effectively both written and oral communications, including formal presentations, to colleagues, 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 - (cold water streams, cool/warm water river systems, cold water fish culture, statistical/analytical skills)
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 $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.
+ 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.
+ 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.
Public Pesticide Applicator Certification required within six months of employment.
Normal hours are 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday with participation in a weekend work rotation. Some evening/night duty, rotating shifts required. Some travel and overnight stay required. Emergency response mandatory,
therefore, employee must live within 30 miles of the Big Spring Hatchery.
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 theDAS 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 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
900Fisheries Biology6 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 thislink to view the job description. (
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.
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 ( .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 four year college or university with a bachelor's degree in the biological sciences with at least twelve semester hours (or the academic equivalent) in fisheries biology,ORnine semester hours in wildlife biology?IF YES
How many years do you have of full-time work experience in professional fisheries or wildlife work?
+ Not applicable - I do not have a bachelor's degree in the biological sciences
+ No full-time work experience in professional fisheries or wildlife work
+ Less than one year of full-time work experience in professional fisheries or wildlife work
+ One year to less than two years of full-time work experience in professional fisheries or wildlife work
+ Two or more years of full-time work experience in professional fisheries or wildlife work
04
Do you have a Master's degree in fisheries biology, wildlife biology, or fisheries management or wildlife management?
+ Yes
+ No
05
Are you a current State of Iowa employee (executive branch)? IF YES - How many years of experience do you have in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 or 2 for the State of Iowa?
+ Not applicable - I am not a State of Iowa employee
+ Less than three years of experience in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 or 2
+ Three or more years of experience in the classification of Natural Resources Technician 1 or 2
06
Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in Fisheries Biology?
+ 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
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