Job Description
Conservation Districts of Iowa - Wetland Engineering Technician
Location: Northwood, Iowa
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Anticipated Start Date: Upon successful background check
The successful applicant would work in the following area:
* Housed in the Northwood USDA-NRCS office covering portions of the USDA-NRCS NE and NW Areas
These positions are funded through an agreement between the Conservation Districts of Iowa and the Iowa Natural Resource Conservation Service, with funding secured through September 2027 and potential for extension.
Job Description:
Wetland Engineering Technicians will assist in designing and implementing wetland restoration and enhancement on private lands in Iowa through USDA’s Agricultural Conservation Easement Program Wetland Reserve Easements (ACEP-WRE) and Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). These wetlands support wildlife, improve water quality, reduce flooding, recharge groundwater, and provide resilience to climate change, among other benefits.
As a CDI employee, you will partner with NRCS and DNR, receiving training and direction from NRCS Engineering staff and working closely with NRCS Area Easement Specialists and Resource Team Leads. You will also collaborate with the DNR Private Lands Biologist for wildlife habitat assessment and management training.
Your role will involve developing into a key member of the team, coordinating with landowners and engineers to develop surveys, project plans, specifications, and cost estimates, and conducting inspections and construction oversight. By the end of the first year, you should be able to assist in designing and implementing wetland projects independently.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
* Effective communication with landowners and agencies
* Ability to work independently and outdoors in wetland environments
* Knowledge of engineering drawings, surveying, and design practices
* Knowledge of land survey principles and tools
* Understanding of agricultural drainage and moist-soil management
* Excellent communication skills
* Proficiency with Microsoft Office, ArcGIS, CAD, USDA Conservation Desktop
* Strong organizational skills
* Valid driver’s license and ability to use UTV/ATV
* Some overnight and evening work; ability to obtain USDA Security Clearance
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering or related field, with 1 year of relevant wetland or wildlife habitat management experience.
Benefits to the Applicant:
* Gaining valuable professional experience in wetland restoration
* Contributing to conservation efforts benefiting ecosystems and wildlife
* Building professional relationships and expanding your network
* Developing skills for career advancement
* Compensation: $18.47/hour, health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, potential for raises
Note: CDI reserves the right to amend or terminate benefit plans; participation does not guarantee future employment.
To Apply:
Send your cover letter, resume, and three references as a single PDF to Dien Judge at dien@cdiowa.org. Include the position(s) you are applying for. CDI is an equal opportunity employer.
#J-18808-Ljbffr