Wildlife Research–Crane Survey Temporary Worker – Iowa DNR – Ames, IA

Conservation Corps; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

The Iowa DNR Wildlife Research Section in Ames is seeking a Temporary Worker to support a cooperative Sandhill crane research project with Iowa State University. You will assist a graduate student with field work to locate and monitor nesting cranes and gain firsthand experience with graduate research and UAVs.

Based in Ames with field work at sites across the state, the position offers a 40-hour work week, with occasional variation due to weather and logistics.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in or graduated from a wildlife/ecology related natural resources program.
• Must be 18+ and have a valid driver’s license.
• Able to perform physically demanding fieldwork including lifting and bending.
• Reliable, detail-oriented and responsible with good teamwork.
• Follow State of Iowa policies and cooperate with supervisors and coworkers.

Responsibilities

• Assist graduate student with field work to locate and monitor nesting Sandhill cranes.
• Provide hands-on experience with graduate research and UAV operations.
• Work across multiple study sites statewide, based in Ames.
• Support a 40-hour work week with flexibility due to weather/logistics.

Skills

Teamwork

Reliability

Attention to detail

Valid driver's license

Education

Natural resources/environmental program

Wildlife Ecology/Biology

Job description

The Iowa DNR’s Wildlife Research Section is hiring one Temporary Worker to support a cooperative Sandhill crane research project with Iowa State University. The successful candidate will assist a graduate student with field work to locate and monitor nesting Sandhill cranes. This position will provide firsthand experience with graduate research and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV). We are seeking an individual who is a good team player with a positive and adaptable disposition. The position will be based in Ames with field work occurring at study sites across the state. A 40 hour work week is anticipated but hours and days may occasionally vary due to weather and logistics.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduated from or currently enrolled in a natural resources/environmental college program
• Major must be in Wildlife Ecology/Biology or other closely related Natural Resource Field
• Must have a valid motor vehicle operator’s license
• Must be a minimum of 18 years of age
• Able to withstand physically demanding work, including lifting, bending, or hauling
• Must demonstrate responsible behavior, reliability, and attention to detail
• Follow basic State of Iowa policies and cooperate with supervisors and co-workers

Location

Ames, Iowa

Start Date

First week of March, 2027.

End Date

mid-May, 2027.

Deadline

December 1, 2026