WQI Edge of Field Contracts Manager - Polk Co

Program Planner 3- Edge of Field/Batch and Build Contracts Manager

Are you passionate about agriculture and committed to preserving Iowa's natural resources? Join the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) as we strive to support our local farmers while protecting our water quality and environment.

About IDALS: At IDALS, we are dedicated to connecting Iowans with vital programs and information concerning crops, food safety standards, livestock, and more. Through collaboration with local farmers markets and agricultural communities, we foster a thriving industry that sustains Iowa's rich agricultural heritage.

Position Overview: IDALS is currently seeking a Program Planner 3 for our Water Resources Bureau. In this role, you will serve as lead worker and statewide point of contact for edge-of-field project management, including selection of professional services and contractors in support of projects funded through the Iowa Water Quality Initiative and Water Quality Infrastructure programs for edge of field/batch and build projects.

Key Responsibilities:

Here's some of what you will be doing:

• Develop, administer, and manage requests for proposals (RFPs) and professional service contracts for consultant deliverables concerning Water Quality Initiative (WQI) and Water Quality Infrastructure Edge of Field/Batch and Build projects bid by the Division.
• Manage, evaluate, and approve monthly invoices and assign cost codes for processing claims for payment submitted by environmental consultants, engineering firms, contractors, and other vendors.
• Prepare RFPs and administer contracts for deliverables such as aerial photography, mapping, archaeological surveys, and threatened and endangered species determinations associated with edge of field/batch and build projects.
• Develop, administer, and execute professional service contracts of consulting firms for the development of construction project specifications and designs associated with edge of field/batch and build projects.
• Act as lead worker and project officer for the Division's contract selection committee as assigned for the selection of firms for water quality infrastructure engineering and design services.
• Develop, administer, and manage public requests for bids for construction of edge-of-field/batch and build projects, and oversee project construction contracts.
• Prepare contract documents and verify contractor eligibility. Coordinate and attend pre-construction meetings between Division, project contractor, consultants, and partners.
• Attend construction contract meetings as necessary, review completed work, and approve pay applications in accordance with contract documents and in consultation with other IDALS WQI staff.
• Develop new and maintain current business relationships with local government subdivisions in counties where water quality and Edge-of-Field/Batch and Build projects are undertaken.
• Provide technical assistance to Water Quality Initiative project grantees and contractors on program rules, funding processes, contract compliance, and reporting requirements.
• Assist IDALS staff and contract-supported project coordinators in the development and collection of success stories and public outreach efforts.

Qualifications:

Here's what we're looking for in our ideal candidate:

• Strong working knowledge of agriculture, with experience or educational background in agronomy, soil conservation, nutrient management, or agricultural operations preferred.
• Passion for water conservation and environmental stewardship.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including farmers, landowners, cooperatives, retailers, and government agencies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits as a State of Iowa Employee:

Working for the State of Iowa comes with its perks. In addition to a competitive salary, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth:

• Paid Time Off: Enjoy the flexibility of vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
• Great Benefits: Excellent Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Options.
• Retirement Plan: Secure your future with IPERS Retirement and a deferred compensation plan.
• Flexibility: Make the most of Flexible Spending Accounts (medical and dependent care).
• Life Insurance: Free Life Insurance - peace of mind.
• Support: Access Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs.

Learn more about the benefits available as a State of Iowa Employee here.

Join us today!

Join us in making a difference in Iowa's agriculture and environmental landscape. Apply today to become a part of our dedicated team at IDALS!

For more information about the Water Resources Bureau, visit watch our informational video .

E-Verify and Right to Work: The 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 www.e-verify.gov.

Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:

1) Seven years of full-time work experience in the administration or operation/execution (i.e., providing consultation and/or technical assistance to stakeholders, research and analysis, or enforcement of program guidelines/policies/procedures) of a program (i.e., the provision of a service or an administrative oversight/enforcement responsibility).

2) All of the following (a, b, and c):

a. One year of full-time work experience in the administration or operation/execution (i.e., providing consultation and/or technical assistance to stakeholders, research and analysis, or enforcement of program guidelines/policies/procedures) of a program (i.e., the provision of a service or an administrative oversight/enforcement responsibility); and

b. A total of four years of education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience; and

c. A total of two years of graduate-level education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience.

3) Graduation from an accredited school of law.

4) Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes nine months of full-time work as a Program Planner 2 or twenty-seven months of full-time work as a Program Planner 1.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.