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Ames, Iowa, United States
Onsite
Not Available
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
The Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management (NREM) at Iowa State University is hiring Temporary Field Research Assistants to support ongoing departmental research projects. Individuals may work as part of an associated research team or complete independent assignments, depending on project needs. This position provides hands‑on field research experience supporting studies in natural resources, ecology, and environmental management.
Key Responsibilities
Perform outdoor fieldwork in support of research projects, which may include walking extended distances, carrying equipment over uneven or rough terrain, and wading through water bodies
Collect, record, and manage field data following established research protocols
Collaborate with faculty, staff, and other research personnel to support project objectives
Maintain accurate records, follow safety procedures, and research guidelines.
This position requires extended periods of work in outdoor environments. Duties may be physically demanding and can involve walking long distances, carrying field equipment, hiking to field sites, and working in varying weather conditions, including rain, heat, cold, or snow. Fieldwork may occur across multiple locations.
Work schedules may vary based on workload and weather conditions and will not exceed 40 hours per week, though occasional weekend work may be required. This is a temporary position limited to 780 hours per fiscal year and does not include benefits. Supervisor assignment, hourly rate of pay, work schedule, and specific duties will be discussed individually with selected candidates. The role requires a strong work ethic, dependability, the ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team, attention to detail and accuracy in field and data‑related tasks.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
Department/Program & College Description:
The Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management (NREM) at Iowa State University is dedicated to the understanding, effective management, and sustainable use of renewable natural resources. Through the land‑grant missions of teaching, research, and extension, the department works to advance scientific knowledge, support resource stewardship, and engage communities in addressing environmental and natural resource challenges.
Department Unit/Website (if applicable):
Department of Natural Resource Ecology and Management
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.
