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Aquatic Science Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Professional & Scientific Required Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor's degree Summary of Duties and ... Oversee swim lesson programs and aquatic education courses for youth and adult participants.

Professional & Scientific Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree Summary of Duties and ... Oversee swim lesson programs and aquatic education courses for youth and adult participants.

Manage daily operations of aquatic facilities, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant service ... Bachelor's degree or above in Recreation and Sport Management, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or a ...

Range Ecologist

Audubon, IA · On-site

$57K/yr

About Audubon The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they ...

Lifeguard

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Under the direct supervision of the Aquatics Director, this position creates a safe and positive ... Scientist/Medical Laboratory Te Southwest Health Temporary Warehouse Worker / Non-CDL Driver ...

New

EOD Assessment and Selection Course that evaluates aquatic adaptability, running, swimming ... science, mechanical comprehension, and electronics information; age typically 30 or younger at ...

EOD Assessment and Selection Course that evaluates aquatic adaptability, running, swimming ... science, mechanical comprehension, and electronics information; age typically 30 or younger at ...

EOD Assessment and Selection Course that evaluates aquatic adaptability, running, swimming ... science, mechanical comprehension, and electronics information; age typically 30 or younger at ...

EOD Assessment and Selection Course that evaluates aquatic adaptability, running, swimming ... science, mechanical comprehension, and electronics information; age typically 30 or younger at ...

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Showing results 1-20

Aquatic Science information

See Iowa salary details

$26.3K

$81.8K

$90.2K

How much do aquatic science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for aquatic science in Iowa is $81,769.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,300.00 and $88,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an aquatic science do?

An aquatic scientist studies the organisms, ecosystems, and environmental conditions of water bodies such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. They may conduct field research, collect water samples, analyze data, and develop conservation or management strategies using tools like GIS and laboratory equipment. This role often requires knowledge of biology, ecology, and environmental science, and may involve working outdoors or in laboratories.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the aquatic science position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Aquatic Science, you need a background in biology, chemistry, or environmental science, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or advanced degree. Familiarity with water sampling equipment, GIS software, and laboratory analysis techniques, as well as certifications such as SCUBA or HAZWOPER, are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills help you interpret data and collaborate effectively on research projects. These skills are vital for accurately monitoring aquatic environments, advancing scientific understanding, and informing conservation or management strategies.

What is an aquatic science job?

An Aquatic Science job involves studying freshwater and marine ecosystems, including their plants, animals, and environmental conditions. Professionals in this field conduct research, monitor water quality, assess ecosystem health, and work on conservation efforts. They may be employed by government agencies, environmental organizations, research institutions, or private companies. Their work helps to protect aquatic environments and ensure sustainable use of water resources.

What careers are in aquatic science?

Careers in aquatic science include marine biologists, oceanographers, environmental scientists, fisheries managers, and aquatic resource specialists. These roles often require knowledge of marine ecosystems, data collection skills, and sometimes certifications in scuba diving or environmental monitoring.

What can I do with an aquatic science degree?

An aquatic science degree prepares individuals for careers such as marine biologist, environmental consultant, aquarist, or research scientist. These roles often involve fieldwork, data analysis, and environmental monitoring, and may require certifications or specialized training depending on the position.

What types of projects do aquatic scientists typically work on, and how do these projects involve collaboration?

Aquatic Scientists often work on projects involving water quality assessment, ecological monitoring, habitat restoration, and aquatic species research. These projects frequently require collaboration with colleagues in related fields such as marine biology, environmental engineering, and government agencies, as well as coordination with field technicians and laboratory staff. Team-based efforts are essential when conducting fieldwork, analyzing data, or developing management recommendations. This collaborative environment not only fosters innovation but also ensures comprehensive solutions to complex aquatic ecosystem challenges.

What are popular job titles related to Aquatic Science jobs in Iowa? For Aquatic Science jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Aquatic Science jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Aquatic Science jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Aquatic Science job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $81,769 per year, or $39.3 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

382nd of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:Aquatics CoordinatorJob Group:Professional & ScientificRequired Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor's degreeJob Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:

Interested in working in university recreation while focusing your career on aquatics?


If so, Recreation Services with Iowa State University is seeking applicants for an Aquatics Coordinator position! This position will be classified as a Recreation Services Specialist I.

What You'll Do:

  • Recruit, hire, train, schedule, supervise, and evaluate student employees, including lifeguards, swim instructors, and aquatic leadership staff.

  • Coordinate lifeguard certification, recertification, and ongoing staff training to maintain safety and operational standards.

  • Oversee swim lesson programs and aquatic education courses for youth and adult participants.

  • Manage daily operations of aquatic facilities, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant service delivery.

  • Monitor facility maintenance needs, regulatory compliance requirements, and aquatic equipment inventories.

  • Implement and enforce aquatic policies, procedures, and risk management practices.

  • Coordinate emergency preparedness, safety training, incident review, and facility inspections.

  • Evaluate aquatic programs and services, analyze operational data, and recommend improvements; which could include new programming.

  • Promote aquatic programs through marketing, outreach, partnerships, and special events.

  • Assist with budget management, financial forecasting, purchasing, and expense tracking.

  • Collaborate with campus and community partners to support departmental initiatives and participant engagement.

  • Provide operational support for departmental projects, events, and other assigned responsibilities.

Occasional work outside of standard business hours may be required.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree or above in Recreation and Sport Management, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or a related field.

  • Experience working in an aquatics environment, preferably in collegiate recreation, municipal recreation, or a similar setting.

  • Certification as a Lifeguard, Lifeguard Instructor, and/or Water Safety Instructor.

  • Experience mentoring, training, or supervising employees, preferably student employees.

  • Experience with recreation management and scheduling software, such as Fusion, Connect2, WhenToWork, or Workday.

About Recreation Services:

Recreation Services offers the freedom of individuality through a wide range of programs, activities, and facilities. Recreation Services strives to make everyone feel right at home, whether a first-timer or a regular user. To learn more, please visit Recreation Services.

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

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans

  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans

  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)

  • Life insurance and long-term disability

  • Flexible Spending Accounts

  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts

  • Employee Assistance Program

  • Wellbeing program

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.

Appointment Type:RegularNumber of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timePay Grade:PS806Original Posting Date:July 27, 2026Posting Close Date:August 9, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19665

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.


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