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Area Forester

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Area Forester

Salary

$54,766.40 - $83,012.80 Annually

Location

Harpers Ferry - 52146 - Allamakee County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

25-02951

Agency

542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Opening Date

04/23/2025

Closing Date

5/13/2025 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

Detra Dettmann, [email protected], 563-608-4597

To Apply

The Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter to their 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 DNR’s Parks, Forests, and Preserves Bureau is seeking a dedicated and passionate Area Forester to join our team at Yellow River State Forest. The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about natural resource management, committed to maintaining the health and diversity of our Forest, and eager to engage with the public to promote the DNR’s mission. This position offers the unique opportunity to lead long-term conservation efforts, direct operational teams, and foster community connections through education and outreach.

The Area Forester is the key staff person who oversees all aspects of planning and operations to manage and maintain Yellow River State Forest. Yellow River State Forest includes 8,990 acres of forest, streams and prairies. It is in the Driftless Area landform region with steep and hilly topography. It has two cold water streams regularly stocked with trout. It is adjacent to the Upper Mississippi River National Fish and Wildlife Refuge and Effigy Mounds National Monument, and is at the core of a Globally Significant Bird Conservation Area as designated by the Audubon Society. The area is popular with hunters, anglers, hikers, backpackers, bird watchers, horseback riders, mountain bikers and campers.

The Area Forester is responsible for providing professional forest management to ensure the state forest and its related resources are maintained in a healthy, diverse, and sustainable condition. This includes implementing and updating the forest management plan, maintaining associated tables and GIS applications, and developing long-range plans for forest development and stewardship. The forester will lay out, schedule, and oversee the completion of both natural resource and recreation management projects. A key component of this role is leading efforts to protect the forest from insect infestations, disease outbreaks, and other damaging agents.

Administrative duties include managing forest operations by efficiently maintaining accurate records on equipment, materials, and activities, as well as preparing and monitoring budgets and expenditures in accordance with procurement policies. The forester will ensure that required reports are submitted on time, and that records are maintained according to agency procedures. The position also involves responding to public inquiries and providing clear and timely information to the public and supervisors alike.

This position will work under the direction of the District Supervisor, and is responsible for directing Yellow River State Forest personnel and volunteers, developing work schedules, and ensuring that employees are properly trained to perform their duties safely and effectively. This includes adherence to the policies and procedures of the Parks, Forest and Preserves Bureau and the State of Iowa. The forester will also oversee the maintenance of facilities, roads, trails, equipment, and other forest infrastructure.

Public relations responsibilities involve managing outreach and educational programs to raise awareness about the importance of Iowa’s forest resources, the role of forestry programs, and the value of the state forest. These programs may be delivered in classrooms, through direct public engagement, or via print and electronic media.

Essential Functions

+ Develops and implements forest management plans for state forest areas to adequately manage assigned state forest.

+ Directs the work of other forestry personnel and provides necessary training to ensure adequate job performance.

+ Applies forestry principles and practices in the management of state forest lands.

+ Creates and maintains forest management demonstration and research areas to increase public awareness of the value and role of forests in Iowa.

+ Establishes demonstration areas, hosts field days and seeks partnerships with supporting agencies and groups to promote forestry education and awareness.

+ Utilizes forest stand improvement techniques and regeneration systems to enhance tree growth ranges, regenerate mature and declining stands, and improve forest health in the state forest.

+ Manages prairie and grassland habitats by using prescribed fire to promote diversity.

Critical Competencies

Accountability, Integrity, High Productivity, Team Player, Customer Focus, Interpersonal Skills, Communication Skills, Self-Management, Technical Skills (forest management).

Additional Requirements:

1. Pesticide Applicator License (must obtain within first 12 months of hire)

2. Possession of valid Driver's license at time of hire

3. CPR/First Aid certification (must obtain within first six months of hire)

4. Chainsaw Safety Training Qualification Certification (must obtain within first 12 months of hire)

5. S-130/S-190 Firefighter Training Qualification (within first 12 months of hire)

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.

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

+ Flexible work schedules (as approved by the supervisor).

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/human-resources/benefits-glance) for more benefit information.

Ensure you are kept up-to-date on the status of this position by checking your email regularly for emails from [email protected]. 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

907 Forestry

12 semester hours, 6 months continuous full-time experience, or a combination of both, in any of the following:

+ Dendrology

+ S ilviculture

+ Forest management, tree planting and habitat management

+ Timber stand improvement

+ Forest planning

+ Planning and mapping using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for forest improvement projects

+ Forest inventory including tree identification

+ Reforestation and/or forest health data collection and monitoring

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from an accredited college or university with major coursework in forestry.

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/Forester2-05414.pdf)

Additional Qualification Requirements

Designated positions in this job class require applicants to obtain a Pesticide Applicators License as issued by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship 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

Have you graduated from an accredited college or university with major coursework in forestry?

+ Yes

+ No

04

Does your application demonstrate that you have 12 semester hours, 6 months continuous full-time experience, or a combination of both, in any of the following:

+ Dendrology

+ Silviculture

+ Forest management, tree planting and habitat management

+ Timber stand improvement

+ Forest planning

+ Planning and mapping using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for forest improvement projects

+ Forest inventory including tree identification

+ Reforestation and/or forest health data collection and monitoring?

+ Yes

+ No

05

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. Neglecting to thoroughly answer this question may result in disqualification.

06

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? Please indicate your response.

+ Yes

+ No

07

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

Employer

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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