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Environmental Science Graduate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Arcosa Lightweight

Safety Coordinator

Newton, IA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in safety science, safety management, industrial hygiene, environmental science ... Graduate Safety Professional (GSP) * Knowledge of: * Occupational Safety & Health Administration ...

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All JobsEnvironmental Science Graduate JobsEnvironmental Science Graduate Jobs in Iowa

Environmental Science Graduate information

See Iowa salary details

$38.5K

$79K

$115.5K

How much do environmental science graduate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for environmental science graduate in Iowa is $79,014.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,400.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you get with an environmental science degree?

Graduates with an environmental science degree can pursue a variety of careers, including roles such as environmental consultant, conservation scientist, environmental educator, sustainability specialist, and environmental analyst. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, private companies, or research institutions. The degree provides a strong foundation in ecological principles, data analysis, and problem-solving, making graduates valuable in addressing environmental challenges and developing sustainable solutions.

Is grad school worth it for environmental science?

For environmental science graduates, attending graduate school can enhance job prospects, especially for research, policy, or specialized roles that require advanced degrees. However, many entry-level positions are available with a bachelor's degree, and gaining practical experience or certifications can also be valuable. The decision depends on career goals and the specific requirements of desired positions.

What is the difference between Environmental Science Graduate vs Environmental Technician?

AspectEnvironmental Science GraduateEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in environmental science or related fieldAssociate degree or relevant certification, sometimes a bachelor's
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, fieldwork, data analysisField sites, laboratories, environmental monitoring
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, government agenciesEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, industrial sites
Common Search & ComparisonEntry-level roles, career development, educational backgroundTechnical roles, fieldwork, practical skills

Environmental Science Graduates typically hold a bachelor's degree and focus on research, data analysis, and environmental policy. Environmental Technicians often have an associate degree or certification and perform field sampling, monitoring, and technical tasks. Both roles are essential in environmental work, but they differ in education level, job responsibilities, and work settings.

What can I do with a degree in environmental science?

An environmental science graduate can pursue careers in environmental consulting, conservation, research, policy analysis, and sustainability management. These roles often require skills in data analysis, environmental regulations, and fieldwork, and may involve working for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies.

What jobs can I do with environmental science?

Environmental science graduates can pursue careers such as environmental analyst, conservation scientist, environmental consultant, or sustainability coordinator. These roles often involve data analysis, fieldwork, and knowledge of environmental regulations, and may require certifications or specialized training depending on the position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Environmental Science Graduate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Environmental Science Graduate, you need a solid grounding in environmental principles, data analysis, and scientific research, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, statistical tools like R or Python, and laboratory techniques is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help you effectively collaborate and convey scientific findings to diverse audiences. These skills are crucial for addressing complex environmental challenges and contributing meaningfully to sustainability initiatives.

What types of projects do Environmental Science Graduates typically work on early in their careers?

As an Environmental Science Graduate, you can expect to contribute to a variety of projects such as environmental impact assessments, data collection and analysis for pollution monitoring, and fieldwork related to habitat restoration. Early-career roles often involve collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, ecologists, and policy experts, to address real-world environmental challenges. These projects provide hands-on experience and the opportunity to develop specialized skills that can lead to advancement into research, consulting, or project management roles.

What do you do with a master's in environmental science?

An environmental science graduate with a master's degree can pursue roles such as environmental analyst, conservation scientist, environmental consultant, or sustainability coordinator. These positions often involve data analysis, environmental policy, fieldwork, and require knowledge of environmental regulations and tools like GIS software.
What are popular job titles related to Environmental Science Graduate jobs in Iowa? For Environmental Science Graduate jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Environmental Science Graduate jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Environmental Science Graduate jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Environmental Science Graduate jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Environmental Science Graduate job openings:
Environmental Science Graduate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Environmental Science Graduate job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,014 per year, or $38 per hour.
Postdoc Research Associate - Nutrient Recovery and Water Reuse

Postdoc Research Associate - Nutrient Recovery and Water Reuse

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Iowa State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 536 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Title:Postdoc Research Associate - Nutrient Recovery and Water ReuseAppointment Type:Post Doc/TraineeJob Description:

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
The Postdoctoral Researcher will work closely with BEI Research Scientists to conduct research on nutrient recovery and recycling from cattle feedlot lagoon water using biochar-, clay mineral-, and woodchip-based filtration systems. This work will focus on developing and evaluating sustainable nutrient recovery technologies that enhance nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium retention, reduce nutrient losses, and support circular agricultural systems.

The Postdoctoral Researcher will design and carry out laboratory, greenhouse, and column studies to investigate adsorption, desorption, nutrient cycling, and nutrient transport processes within engineered sorbent systems. Responsibilities include characterizing lagoon water and sorbent materials (e.g., biochar, clay minerals, woodchips, and nutrient-enriched media) using chemical and spectroscopic techniques, evaluating nutrient recovery and release efficiencies, and assessing impacts on soil health, water quality, and environmental sustainability.

This role also involves supporting the development and evaluation of proof-of-concept nutrient recovery systems for feedlot operations in collaboration with industry partners and stakeholders. The Postdoctoral Researcher is expected to work independently, contribute to interdisciplinary team efforts, mentor students as appropriate, and disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, stakeholder engagement, and sponsor reports.

Required Minimum Qualifications:
PhD in Environmental Science, Environmental Chemistry/Biology.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in thermochemical conversion of biomass
  • Experience with biochar analysis and utilization for slow-release fertilizer development, including sorption processes and mechanisms in various media
  • Experience with nutrient recovery from animal manure using biochar and other sorptive media
  • Understanding of soil-plant interactions in response to biochar application
  • Experience in water quality research and environmental remediation

Department/Program & College Description:
Iowa State University's Biorenewables Research Laboratory building is a visible "front door" to its many diverse and broad-reaching programs in biorenewables. The 70,000 sq. ft. facility, completed in 2010, provides affiliated faculty and staff a physical environment that promotes interdisciplinary, systems-level research and collaboration, including laboratory, meeting and teaching space for both graduate and undergraduate students. Construction was made possible through an appropriation from the state of Iowa. The Biorenewables Research Laboratory comprises about one-third of the Biorenewables Complex, which is also home to the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering.

Department Unit/Website:
Biorenewable Research Laboratory | Bioeconomy Institute

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
  • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

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.

Proposed Start Date:August 1, 2026Number of Months Employed Per Year:Time Type:Full timePay Grade:Post DocsOriginal Posting Date:June 2, 2026Posting Close Date:June 9, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19317

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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