Salary : $61,755.20 - $94,036.80 Annually
Location : Des Moines - 50321 - Polk County, IA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 27-00671
Agency: 542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Opening Date: 09/03/2026
Closing Date: 10/9/2026 11:59 PM Central
LinkedIn Tag: #LI-POST
Point of Contact: George Antoniou, ,
To Apply: The Iowa Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a resume and cover letter to the online application.
Job Description Only applicants who meet the Minimum Qualification Requirements and all selective requirements 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 is seeking a motivated engineer to join our Engineering Design team. This position offers a unique opportunity to help preserve and improve Iowa's public lands and facilities. Working under the direct mentorship of a Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.), the successful applicant will ensure that state infrastructure-from state parks to wildlife areas-is safe, compliant, and built to serve the public for generations. The position is open to pending December 2026 graduates in the civil, construction, environmental or agricultural engineering fields.
Responsibilities include assisting with develop designs and drawings using AutoDesk Civil 3D. Utilizing engineering software to calculate or modify construction quantities and supplementary project information. Utilize and create computer-generated maps, plans, or displays to illustrate project details. Develop tools or workflows to more efficiently design construction projects. Assist with the preparation of Contract Documents including drawings, specifications, construction estimates, and bid documents, and assist with the determination of applicable construction alternatives if contracts require modifications.
This position will work on site at projects to provide assistance to field engineers and surveyor on an as-needed basis. Assistance may include construction observation, operating survey equipment, and inspection of the contracted work to verify that it meets specified requirements.
This position will also provide support and administrative assistance including but not limited to providing permitting assistance in tracking and preparing permit applications, securing necessary permits for construction projects, researching historic construction data, and maintaining up to date reference material.
The Department values continuous learning. The successful candidate will be expected, and encouraged to attend workshops and seminars to advance their skills in AutoDesk Civil 3D, modern construction methods, and engineering design.
Essential Functions: Apply the principles and practices of facilities engineering and of state building codes, rules and regulations.
Preparation of complete engineering plans and specifications for a variety of building facilities; estimating and scheduling using computers and specialized software.
Communicate effectively verbally and in writing with DNR staff, management personnel, and other state and federal agencies.
Read, interpret, and accurately obtain necessary information from engineering related source documents/data to document proposals, search for precedents, and seek out alternative procedures for engineering problems or projects.
Provide assistance with inspection and construction observation of capital projects; coordinate contractor relations, change orders and payment requests; ability to adjust to change, work pressures or difficult situations without undue stress.
Travel across the state as required.
Critical Job Competencies:Accountability, Integrity, High Productivity, Communication Skills, Team Player, Interpersonal Skills, Customer Focus, Self-Management, Computer Skills, Technical Skills (design/drafting).
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 for more information.
- Flexible work schedules (as approved by the supervisor).
- Opportunities for hybrid telework (as approved by the supervisor).
- Workout/Gym facilities available onsite at 6200 Park Ave.
Comments: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 the for more benefit information.
Program Webpage Link: Add Video Link:(scroll to bottom of page)
Pending Applicants: College or university students that are pending graduation in December of 2026 with a Bachelor's Degree in a Civil, Construction, Environmental or Agricultural Engineering are eligible to apply for this position.
Ensure you are kept up-to-date on the status of this position by checking your email regularly for emails from This is a system generated email from the DAS application system and it may be sent directly to your Junk/Spam folder.
For more information about DNR Employment Opportunities and position specific notices, please visit the website.
The State of Iowa is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
E-Verify and Right to WorkThe 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
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 097
Civil Engineering 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in one or more of the following: Survey crew Construction inspector Professional civil engineer Must be able to read blueprints, plans, and/or specifications.
OR
223
Construction Engineering 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in the professional discipline that deals with the designing, planning, construction, and management of infrastructures such as highways, bridges, airports, railroads, buildings, dams, and utilities.
OR
182
Environmental Engineering6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in the area of engineering that is centered on the technology concerned with the reduction of pollution, contamination, and deterioration of the surroundings in which humans live.
OR
007
Agricultural Engineering6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both including knowledge in one or in a combination of the following areas: machinery and power systems, structural design, mechanical analysis or ventilation, and climate control.
Minimum Qualification Requirements Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in engineering.
For additional information, please click on this
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-friendlyGain 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.
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?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 four-year college or university with a degree in engineering?
04
Selective 182 (Environmental Engineering)Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in Environmental Engineering, the area of engineering that is centered on the technology concerned with the reduction of pollution, contamination, and deterioration of the surroundings in which humans live?
05
Selective 223 (Construction Engineering)Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in Construction Engineering, the professional discipline that deals with the designing, planning, construction, and management of infrastructures such as highways, bridges, airports, railroads, buildings, dams, and utilities?
06
Selective 097 (Civil Engineering)Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in one or more of the following:
- Survey crew;
- Construction inspector;
- Professional civil engineer?
Must be able to read blueprints, plans, and/or specifications.
07
Selective 007 (Agricultural Engineering)Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both including knowledge of Agricultural Engineering, in one or in a combination of the following areas: machinery and power systems, structural design, mechanical analysis or ventilation, and climate control?
08
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?
09
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
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