Mark C. Ackelson Public Policy Fellowship Job Announcement
Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation is looking for a dedicated professional to work with us on a temporary basis as the Mark C. Ackelson Fellow. This Fellow will work to build grassroots support for public policy that enhances natural resource protection and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation is a statewide conservation nonprofit that works with private landowners and public agencies to protect and restore Iowa’s land, water, and wildlife. For over 46 years, INHF has worked with individuals and communities to protect land of special significance and create public parks, trails, and wildlife areas throughout the state.
Fellowship Opportunities: The Fellowship is a learning opportunity to work with some of Iowa’s leading natural resource conservation professionals, including a variety of INHF staff, state departments, coalitions, state legislators and local leaders. The Ackelson Fellow will gain a thorough understanding of the legislative process, natural resource issues and policy, and experience in lobbying and grassroots advocacy.
Responsibilities: The Fellow will work with staff to advocate for conservation and natural resources throughout the Iowa legislative session. The Fellow will report to INHF’s Public Policy Director & Counsel, and work closely with the INHF President, External Affairs Director and other INHF staff. They will assist in coordinating grassroots outreach, informing legislators about INHF’s work and position on various legislative proposals, researching bills throughout the state legislative session, planning advocacy events, coordinating joint efforts with coalition partners, and drafting educational and advocacy materials.
Skills Required: The Fellow must have strong networking and communications skills, an interest in Iowa’s natural resources, sustainable agriculture, multi-use trail system, and/or public policy; possess the ability to work independently; act with high integrity and professionalism; be detail oriented; ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment; be proficient in the use of Microsoft Office program; and be willing to work nights and weekends on occasion. Applicant must have a valid driver’s license and ability to drive within the state of Iowa. A vehicle can be provided for required travel. Entry-level applicants are encouraged to apply.
Work Environment: This is a non-exempt, temporary full-time fellowship, approximately 30-40 hours per week, Monday-Friday, with occasional work in the evening and weekends. This is an in-person position based out of INHF’s Des Moines office. The position includes travel within the state and some flexibility for occasional remote work. This job operates in a professional office environment and routinely visits public offices and buildings. The Fellowship will be active between September 2025 and April 2026, with some flexibility in start/end dates. Hourly wage starts at $22/hour based on experience, with reimbursement for travel expenses. Benefits are not included in this temporary, nonexempt position.
Equal Opportunity: INHF is committed to the principles of equal employment. We are committed to complying with all federal, state, and local laws providing equal employment opportunities, and all other employment laws and regulations. It is our intent to maintain a work environment that is free of harassment, discrimination, or retaliation because of age, race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation (including transgender status, gender identity or expression), pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation, and related medical conditions), physical or mental disability, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), veteran status, uniformed servicemember status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws.
To apply: Deadline September 15,2025
Please submit your cover letter, resume, and references on our website here. If you have questions about the application process, contact Kari Walker, INHF Human Resources Director, at kwalker@inhf.org. Questions about the position can be directed to Anna Gray, at agray@inhf.org.
About the Mark C. Ackelson Fellowship
This fellowship was endowed at the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation to honor Mark C. Ackelson, who devoted his career to protecting and restoring Iowa’s land, water and wildlife. Mark served as INHF President for 18 years, and he provided strong leadership roles for Iowa conservation coalitions plus national organizations that promote conservation and trails.
This fellowship is intended to help launch the careers of future conservation leaders. Fellows work alongside INHF’s professional staff and partners on a select project for a limited time. The focus of the Ackelson Fellowship will likely vary from year to year, as urgent or unusual opportunities present themselves.
