Environmental Research Coordinator in Iowa Career Overview
As an Environmental Research Coordinator, you play a vital role in advancing the understanding of environmental issues through research and analysis. Your responsibilities encompass a range of activities that contribute to the development of effective environmental policies and practices. The following outlines the core aspects of your role and its significance within the broader environmental landscape:
Research Management: You oversee research projects, ensuring they align with organizational goals and regulatory requirements. This includes coordinating with researchers, managing timelines, and monitoring project outcomes.
Data Collection and Analysis: You collect and analyze environmental data, which may involve field studies, laboratory work, and the use of statistical software. Your findings inform strategies for addressing environmental challenges.
Report Preparation: Your role involves compiling research results into comprehensive reports that communicate findings to stakeholders. This is essential for facilitating informed decision-making among policymakers, organizations, and the public.
Collaboration: You work closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profits, and academic institutions. Building partnerships is vital for fostering collaborative research efforts and sharing knowledge.
Regulatory Compliance: You ensure that research activities adhere to environmental regulations and standards. This aspect of your job is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the research and protecting public and environmental health.
Public Awareness: You may engage in outreach efforts to raise awareness about environmental issues and the importance of your research. This role helps bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and community understanding.
Overall, your contributions as an Environmental Research Coordinator are key in shaping effective environmental initiatives and promoting sustainable practices within Iowa and beyond.
Environmental Research Coordinator Salary in Iowa
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become an Environmental Research Coordinator in Iowa
To become an Environmental Research Coordinator in Iowa, you typically need a specific educational background, generally culminating in a bachelor’s or higher degree in relevant fields. Below are the key degree programs that can prepare you for this role:
Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Policy
This program emphasizes the development, analysis, and implementation of policies that address environmental challenges, focusing on the interplay between science, policy, and society.Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science
This curriculum integrates scientific disciplines such as biology, chemistry, and geology, offering a foundational understanding of environmental systems and the impact of human activity on these systems.Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Studies
This interdisciplinary program combines social sciences with natural sciences, aiming to understand environmental issues from diverse perspectives, including ethical, cultural, and economic factors.Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Health
This degree focuses on the impact of environmental factors on human health and safety, covering topics such as toxicology, exposure assessment, and health policy.Bachelor's Degree in Environmental and Natural Resources Management and Policy
This field of study encompasses the management of natural resources from a policy perspective, equipping you with skills to evaluate and implement sustainable practices in resource management.
For advanced positions, pursuing a master’s degree or a professional certification in any of these areas may enhance your qualifications and provide further expertise in environmental research coordination.
Best Schools to become a Environmental Research Coordinator in Iowa 2024
Southern New Hampshire University
American Public University System
University of California-Santa Barbara
University of California-Berkeley
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.
Environmental Research Coordinator Required Skills and Competencies in Iowa
Research Proficiency: You should possess the ability to design and conduct experiments and field studies. This includes data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
Analytical Skills: Strong analytical abilities enable you to evaluate environmental data and assess the significance of your findings.
Technical Skills: Familiarity with scientific software and tools, including statistical analysis programs and geographic information systems (GIS), is essential for effective data handling.
Project Management: You must be able to plan, implement, and oversee research projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required, allowing you to convey complex information clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Collaboration: The ability to work well with diverse teams, including scientists, policymakers, and community members, is vital in achieving common environmental goals.
Problem-Solving: You should be adept at identifying problems, analyzing situations, and developing creative solutions to environmental challenges.
Attention to Detail: Strong attention to detail is necessary for accurately documenting research processes and results.
Knowledge of Environmental Policies: A solid understanding of environmental laws and regulations helps ensure compliance and informs research directions.
Adaptability: The capacity to adapt to new information, changing circumstances, and evolving research methodologies is important in the dynamic field of environmental science.
Job Duties for Environmental Research Coordinators
Design or coordinate successive phases of problem analysis, solution proposals, or testing.
Hire, supervise, or evaluate engineers, technicians, researchers, or other staff.
Plan or direct research, development, or production activities.
Analytical or scientific software
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- The MathWorks MATLAB
Data base user interface and query software
- Microsoft Access
- Structured query language SQL
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Using scientific rules and strategies to solve problems
People and Technology Systems
- Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Environmental Research Coordinator in Iowa
The job market for Environmental Research Coordinators in Iowa is currently favorable, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental issues and the need for research in addressing them. Here are some key aspects of the job market and opportunities available:
Demand: There is a robust demand for Environmental Research Coordinators as both private sector companies and governmental agencies increasingly focus on sustainability and regulatory compliance. This trend is driven by public interest in environmental conservation and the implementation of stricter environmental laws.
Growth Potential: The environmental sector is anticipated to experience continued growth, particularly in areas related to climate change, renewable energy, and conservation efforts. As organizations seek to mitigate their impact on the environment, the need for skilled professionals in research coordination is expected to rise steadily.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Des Moines: As the state capital, Des Moines is a hub for state government agencies, non-profit organizations, and research institutions that focus on environmental issues. This city offers numerous opportunities for collaboration across sectors.
- Iowa City: Home to the University of Iowa, this city has a strong academic presence dedicated to environmental research and sustainability programs. The university often collaborates with local and state agencies, providing avenues for research coordinators.
- Ames: Known for Iowa State University, Ames is recognized for its agricultural research initiatives and sustainability projects. This location provides a unique blend of academic and practical opportunities for research coordinators focused on agricultural environmental issues.
- Cedar Rapids and Waterloo: These cities are experiencing growth in industries that prioritize environmental practices. Manufacturing and technology sectors in the area are increasingly engaging in sustainability research, creating demand for research coordinators.
Additional Opportunities: Local non-profits and advocacy groups are also expanding, focusing on various environmental issues, from conservation efforts to pollution control. These organizations often seek coordinators to manage projects, engage the community, and drive research initiatives.
Overall, the outlook for Environmental Research Coordinators in Iowa is positive, with ample opportunities across urban and rural regions. Networking within local environmental organizations and academic institutions can further enhance your prospects in this dynamic and evolving field.
Top Related Careers to Environmental Research Coordinator 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become an Environmental Research Coordinator in Iowa
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Website: www.epa.gov
- Description: The EPA offers extensive information on environmental research, regulations, and programs. They also provide resources for environmental professionals.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
- Website: www.noaa.gov
- Description: NOAA conducts research regarding climate, weather, and oceans. Their site contains valuable data and publications beneficial for environmental research.
The Society for Conservation Biology (SCB)
- Website: www.conbio.org
- Description: SCB focuses on the science and practice of conserving Earth's biodiversity. Membership provides access to journals, conferences, and networking opportunities.
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
- Website: www.iowadnr.gov
- Description: The state’s DNR provides resources specific to Iowa’s environmental research initiatives, policies, and local data.
The Ecological Society of America (ESA)
- Website: www.esa.org
- Description: ESA promotes ecological science and research. Their resources include journals, educational materials, and a job board tailored for ecology professionals.
American Society for Environmental History (ASEH)
- Website: www.aspeh.org
- Description: ASEH focuses on the study of environmental history. They provide resources like publications and conferences that are useful for further understanding environmental contexts.
International Association for Ecology (INTECOL)
- Website: www.intecol.org
- Description: INTECOL connects ecologists globally and provides a platform for sharing research, upcoming events, and resources related to ecological studies.
Environmental Research Letters
- Website: iopscience.iop.org/journal/1748-9326
- Description: This peer-reviewed journal covers all areas of environmental science. It includes articles that may inform research projects and methodologies.
ResearchGate
- Website: www.researchgate.net
- Description: ResearchGate is a social networking site for researchers. You can access publications, engage with other professionals, and share your research.
LinkedIn Groups Related to Environmental Science
- Website: www.linkedin.com
- Description: Joining LinkedIn groups dedicated to environmental science and research can help you connect with professionals, share insights, and find job opportunities.
The Nature Conservancy
- Website: www.nature.org
- Description: This organization works on various environmental initiatives and provides information on conservation efforts, research projects, and volunteer opportunities.
Accessing these resources will enhance your understanding of environmental research, keeping you informed about best practices, opportunities, and recent advancements in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Environmental Research Coordinator in Iowa
What is the primary role of an Environmental Research Coordinator?
Your primary role is to manage and coordinate environmental research projects. This includes planning, organizing data collection, analyzing results, and disseminating findings to stakeholders.What education is required to become an Environmental Research Coordinator?
A bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, or a related field is typically required. Many positions prefer candidates with a master's degree or relevant work experience.What skills are important for an Environmental Research Coordinator?
Key skills include strong analytical abilities, effective communication, project management, and proficiency with data analysis software. Familiarity with environmental regulations and policies is also beneficial.What types of organizations employ Environmental Research Coordinators in Iowa?
You may find job opportunities in various settings, including universities, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private research firms.How can I gain experience in this field?
Internships, volunteer work, and participation in research projects during your studies are excellent ways to gain relevant experience. Networking with professionals in the field can also provide valuable opportunities.What is the salary range for Environmental Research Coordinators in Iowa?
Salaries can vary based on experience, education, and specific location within Iowa, typically ranging from $50,000 to $80,000 annually.Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
Yes, with experience and additional education, you can advance to senior research positions, project management roles, or supervisory roles in research teams.What are common challenges faced in this role?
Challenges may include securing funding for projects, navigating complex regulations, and handling unexpected environmental changes that can impact research outcomes.Is certification necessary for this job?
Certification is not usually required but obtaining credentials such as Certified Environmental Professional (CEP) can enhance your qualifications and competitive edge in the job market.What is the job outlook for Environmental Research Coordinators in Iowa?
The job outlook is generally positive due to increasing awareness of environmental issues and the need for research to inform policy and conservation efforts.Do Environmental Research Coordinators work independently or as part of a team?
You will often work as part of a team, collaborating with other researchers, government officials, and stakeholders to gather data and share findings.