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Iowa Department of Administrative Services Fish Culture Research Technician in Moravia, Iowa

Fish Culture Research Technician

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Fish Culture Research Technician

Salary

$40,289.60 - $58,988.80 Annually

Location

Moravia - 52571 - Appanoose County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

25-01846

Agency

542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Opening Date

01/07/2025

Closing Date

1/24/2025 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

Jay Rudacille; jay.rudacille@dnr.iowa.gov; 641-647-2406

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 (DNR) employs over 850 employees that are dedicated to protecting Iowa’s natural resources and providing citizens recreational opportunities to enjoy them. The Iowa DNR’s mission is 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. If our mission aligns with your personal goals and you want to work alongside committed and passionate coworkers, then you should consider the Iowa DNR as your next employer.

We currently have a Natural Resources Technician 1 (NRT 1) position that is an integral part of our Fish Culture Research Team. This position contributes to the Iowa DNR’s mission by assisting with applied research that will make Iowa DNR fish hatcheries more efficient, productive, and provide future direction. Increasing productivity at state hatcheries results in more high-quality fish for stocking into public bodies of water for the anglers of Iowa. The primary job duties of the successful candidate are fish culture; buildings, grounds, and equipment maintenance; and data collection and entry.

The successful candidate will gain experience with single pass and recirculating aquaculture systems as well as pond culture. Species currently being researched are Walleyes and Muskellunge.

Fish culture duties include, but are not limited to: sanitation of rearing units; obtaining representative samples of fish; monitoring growth rates of fish; calculating appropriate feed rates; fish necropsies; diagnosis of fish diseases using a microscope; treatment calculation and application of chemotherapeutants; obtaining water samples; and use of water quality equipment such as saturometers, dissolved oxygen meters, pH meters, and spectrophotometers. The NRT 1 also assists with harvest and distribution of fry, fingerlings, and adult fish ensuring that no extraneous species or aquatic invasive species are being inadvertently stocked with the target species

This NRT1 also contributes to research studies by assisting with the collection and entry of study data. Data must be gathered, recorded, and presented in a legible, accurate, and professional manner. It is important that the NRT 1 maintains accurate, thorough, and detailed records using spreadsheets, word processing documents, or databases.

This NRT 1 assists in the maintenance of the Rathbun Fish Culture Research Facility, storage building, research pump station, and water reuse aquaculture building. They also assist with grounds maintenance (e.g., mowing, spraying weeds, and trimming). Additionally, the NRT1 assists in maintenance of fish culture research equipment by performing scheduled maintenance on pieces of equipment such as pumps, blowers, air compressors, and ultraviolet disinfection systems. The research nature of this work requires the NRT 1 to assist in the assembly, modification, and disassembly of fish culture systems and fabricate specialized fish culture equipment.

This NRT1 will assist other full-time staff members in overseeing, training, and mentoring seasonal employees in proper aquaculture and maintenance (building, grounds, and equipment) practices.

Essential Functions

Execute scientifically defensible fish culture experiments.

Collection of study data and data entry.

Complete daily fish culture duties.

Maintenance of buildings, grounds, and equipment.

Critical Job Competencies

Team Player, Integrity, Accountability, Mathematical Reasoning, Creative Thinking, Reasoning, Problem Solving, Interpersonal Skills, Technical Competence (fisheries and maintenance), Communication Skills (oral and written), Customer Focus, Computer Skills, Information Management, Self-Management, Flexibility, Attention to Detail, High Productivity, Common Sense, Positive Attitude

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.

  • Flexible schedules and opportunities (as approved by the supervisor).

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

Comments

Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a Pesticide Applicator license with category 5 certification within 6 months of employment.

College or university students that are pending graduation in May 2025 are encouraged to apply for this position.

Normal hours are 7:30 am - 4:00 pm Monday through Friday with participation in a year-round weekend work rotation. Standby duty is mandatory and housing is not provided; therefore, employee must live (or arrange for temporary housing when on standby) within 15 miles of the Rathbun Fish Culture Research Facility and Rathbun Fish Hatchery. May be required to work 2nd shift during broodstock collection and spawning operations. Some travel with overnight lodging required.

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/state-employment/benefits-glance) for more benefit information.

Ensure you are kept up-to-date of this position by checking your email regularly for emails from info@govermentjobs.com (file://iowa.gov.state.ia.us/data/dnrusers/cmcgror/Downloads/info@govermentjobs.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 (https://www.iowadnr.gov/About-DNR/Employment)

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

900Fisheries Biology

6 months’ experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

The equivalent of two years of full time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or semi-skilled 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 the required experience.

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/NaturalResourcesTechnician1-05301.pdf) .

Additional Qualification Requirements

  • Certain designated positions in this job class require applicants to obtain: a Commercial Drivers License and endorsements; and/or certification as a water and wastewater system operator 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 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 semi-skilled or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program?

  • I do not have of the required experience

  • Less than two years of full-time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or semi-skilled or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program

  • Two years or more of full-time experience involving facilities maintenance in plumbing, electrical, and/or heating and cooling, or semi-skilled or technical work in a biological, horticultural, conservation, or natural resources program

    04

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

  • I do not have any of the combined required education and/or experience

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

  • Two years or more of the combined required education and/or experience

    05

    Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in Fisheries Biology?

  • Yes

  • No

    06

    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.

    07

    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

    08

    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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