Fisheries Management Biologist

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is hiring a Fisheries Management Biologist to lead the Spirit Lake Fish Management District in Des Moines, IA. The role involves managing public fishing waters, developing fisheries management plans, conducting surveys, and collaborating with partners to enhance aquatic habitats and fish populations. The position requires strong fisheries science knowledge and public engagement, and includes responsibilities like overseeing projects, conducting investigations, and preparing reports.
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) is seeking a dedicated and passionate fisheries professional to lead the Spirit Lake Fish Management District. This position is responsible for managing public fishing waters across a nine-county area, ensuring the protection and enhancement of aquatic habitats and fish populations. The selected candidate will develop and implement fisheries management plans, improve aquatic habitat, and work collaboratively with internal and external partners to enhance angling opportunities. The district includes some of the most significant and numerous natural lakes in Iowa, providing a dynamic and rewarding environment for a fisheries professional who values conservation, science-based management, and public engagement.

Major Duties & Responsibilities:
• Utilize advanced fish science knowledge to identify and resolve fisheries management challenges, maintaining and enhancing fishery resources.
• Conduct scientifically rigorous fish population and habitat surveys using various standard and specialized sampling gears following Iowa DNR protocols.
• Analyze fisheries data and implement management strategies to maintain or enhance fish populations and water quality.
• Develop and oversee aquatic habitat improvement projects, including lake restoration initiatives.
• Lead a team of fisheries professionals, providing direction, oversight, and support to ensure high productivity and morale.
• Design and implement comprehensive management plans based on fish population assessments, water quality data, and habitat evaluations.
• Work with private landowners, conservation groups, and agencies to implement watershed improvement projects and improve stream habitat.
• Monitor, assess, and recommend modifications to low-head dams and impoundments to improve fish passage and aquatic habitat.
• Conduct fish kill investigations, document findings, and coordinate with enforcement personnel.
• Conduct annual fish tissue monitoring and assess contamination risks for public health advisories.
• Evaluate and recommend improvements to public water access sites to enhance fishing opportunities and angler experiences.
• Investigate pollution events and provide ecological impact assessments to inform enforcement actions.
• Coordinate and participate in fish stocking programs to enhance fish populations and angler success.
• Engage with the public through outreach programs, fishing clinics, educational presentations, and media communications.
• Prepare technical reports, publications, and presentations for professional audiences and the public.
• Collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies to ensure effective management of fisheries resources.
• Develop and manage budgets, monitor expenditures, and oversee purchasing in compliance with state policies.
• Assist in the administration of the commercial fishing program within the district, ensuring adherence to contractual obligations and state regulations.
• Promote teamwork and professional growth within the Spirit Lake Fish Management team through mentorship and training.

Essential Functions:
• Identifies and solves problems using advanced knowledge of fish science and management of aquatic ecosystems to maintain or enhance fishery resources.
• Surveys fish populations in lakes and streams using a variety of standard and specialized fish sampling gears and does so in a scientifically acceptable, efficient, and effective manner consistent with Standard Fish Sampling Operating Procedures.
• Communicates management activities effectively both written and oral communications, including formal presentations to 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: Takes responsibility for assigned duties and ensures program objectives are met efficiently.
• Customer Focus: Provides excellent service to Iowa anglers, conservation partners, and the general public.
• High Productivity: Maintains a strong work ethic, effectively manages multiple projects, and meets deadlines.
• Integrity: Adheres to ethical and professional standards in all aspects of fisheries management.
• Interpersonal Skills: Builds strong relationships with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders.
• Team Player: Works collaboratively with fisheries staff, DNR divisions, and external conservation groups.
• Communication Skills (Oral & Written): Effectively conveys technical information through reports, presentations, and public outreach.
• Leadership Skills: Guides and motivates a fisheries team, ensuring a productive and engaged work environment.
• Computer Skills: Uses GIS, statistical software, and data management systems for fisheries research and reporting.
• Project Management: Plans and executes fisheries management projects from conception to completion.
• Technical Competence: Demonstrates expertise in warmwater river systems, natural lakes, wetlands, statistical analysis, and fisheries science.

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.
• 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.
• Family friendly and professional work environment.
• Employee Discount Programs (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling).
• Flexible work schedules (as approved by the supervisor).

Comments:

Must obtain a Public Pesticide Applicator Certification within six months of employment.

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. For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

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.