At the DNR, we are committed to the conservation and management of the state's natural resources for outdoor recreation, economic development, and a sustainable quality of life. Apply with us and find your path.
Job Details Working Title: Aquatic Invasive Species in Commerce Prevention Planner Job Class: Planner Intermediate Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources - Job ID: 82102
- Location: St. Paul
- Telework Eligible: Yes
- Full/Part Time: Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary: Limited
- Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
- Date Posted: 1/15/2025
- Closing Date: 2/4/2025
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
- Division/Unit: Ecological & Water Resources
- Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
- Days of Work: Monday - Friday
- Travel Required: Yes, occasional
- Salary Range: $25.29 - $36.71 / hourly; $52,805 - $76,650 / annually
- Classified Status: Unclassified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees / MAPE
- End Date: 03/31/2026 (1 year, 10 months from start)
- FLSA Status: Nonexempt
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : No
The work you'll do is more than just a job. At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Job Summary This position supports the work of the DNR's Invasive Species Program, and the Division of Enforcement's invasive species work to address trade in live organisms' pathways by which aquatic invasive species (AIS) may be introduced to or spread within Minnesota. This position will work to build Minnesota's capacity to effectively prevent and manage those pathways and represent Minnesota DNR in regional coordination efforts to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species via trade pathways.
This position is currently funded by a grant and will last for about 1 year, 10 months.
This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a full or part-time basis which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete a telework agreement.
Qualifications Minimum Qualifications - Bachelor's degree in fisheries, wildlife, conservation biology, natural resource management, ecology, zoology, environmental policy, planning, or related field, OR two (2) years of experience working in natural resource enforcement or outreach.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, sufficient to represent the position and Division in a professional, efficient, and clear manner.
- Experience performing outreach related to natural resources with industries involved in the trade of live organisms, for example, plant nurseries and retailers, pet and aquarium retailers, or live food retail or preparation.
- Experience in conflict management and human relations sufficient to deal effectively with a variety of stakeholders.
- Knowledge of project management principles sufficient to manage deliverables, partners, and contractors within grant budgets and timelines.
- Ability to read, interpret, and apply state and federal laws, regulations, and policies.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite sufficient to produce and maintain word documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
Preferred Qualifications - Experience with aquatic invasive species prevention strategies and regulations in Minnesota.
- Experience working in industries involved in the trade of live organisms, for example, plant nurseries and retailers, pet and aquarium retailers, or live food retail or preparation.
- Experience working on grant-funded projects and reporting to grantors.
- Experience designing and implementing successful outreach tools focused on motivating behavior change.
Additional Requirements This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver's license with a clear driving record.
Applicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
It is policy of the Department of Natural Resources that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:
- Conflict of Interest Review
- Criminal History Check
- Education Verification
- Employment Reference / Records Check
- License / Certification Verification
Application Details How to Apply Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers .
Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Kelly Pennington at kelly.pennington@state.mn.us or 651-245-0859 .
If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA.DNR@state.mn.us .
Working together to improve the state we love. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
- A sense of purpose in their work
- Connection with their coworkers and communities
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
Benefits As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.
Your benefits may include: - Paid vacation and sick leave
- 12 paid holidays each year
- Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
- Fertility care, including IVF
- Diabetes care
- Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
- 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
- Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
- Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
- Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
- Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
- Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
Support to help you reach your career goals: - Training, classes, and professional development
- Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov )
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support: - A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
- Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
- Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care
Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.
