Environmental Specialist - Polk Co (Temporary)

This is a non-merit, temporary position with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Mines and Minerals Bureau is seeking to fill a part-time position that can work up to 780 hours per year. The position is flexible in terms of the number of hours worked per week. The person selected will work collaboratively with a professional team that specializes in reclaiming abandoned coal mines located primarily is SE Iowa. Funding for this position is available for multiple years and may lead to full-time opportunities with the department. The ideal candidate has a degree in biological, environmental, geology, agricultural or science field. Please refer to the department’s website for more information about the AML program https://iowaagriculture.gov/mines-and-minerals-bureau/abandoned-mine-land-reclamation Duties: Under the direct supervision of professionals, this employee will update the federal e-AMLIS database with priority features located on abandoned mine lands (AML) in SE Iowa. The position will spend a significant amount of time in the field traversing AML sites, completing reconnaissance activities, and communicating with landowners regarding interest in the AML reclamation program. The selected candidate will also assist with developing documentation for environmental clearance for NEPA, wetlands, and cultural resources via USFWS, ACOE, IDNR, and SHPO. The selected candidate will also have an opportunity to interact and work with other team members as they complete all aspects of their jobs, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

• Schedule field visits, completes on-site inspections
• Maintains good working relationships with co-workers promoting a high level of productivity.
• Has strong written and verbal communication skills

Qualifications:• Strong interpersonal skills and proficient communicator.

• Computer experience
• Must be able to work independently with minimal supervision and display high standards of ethical conduct.

SUPERVISION This position is under supervision of the Mines and Minerals Bureau Chief. Coordination of day-to-day activities is by the Mines and Minerals staff who will assist with scheduling activities and training. This position does not supervise other employees. PERFORMANCE of this position will be reviewed regularly by the Bureau Chief. COMPENSATION $26.13/hour Essential Functions:• Ability to walk over slippery, wet, or uneven terrain

• Valid driver’s license is required

E-Verify and Right to Work: The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees’ rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov. Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree in a natural science;

OR

an 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.