Interpret Naturalist 1

Working Title: Outdoor Recreation Leader

Job Class: Interpretive Naturalist 1

Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

• Job ID: 83887
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: No
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Seasonal
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 02/21/2025
• Closing Date: 03/13/2025
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
• Division/Unit: Parks and Trails
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Varies
• Days of Work: Varies
• Travel Required: Yes
• Salary Range: $23.63 - $34.18 / hourly
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
• FLSA Status: Nonexempt
• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
  
  

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.

The Department of Natural Resources is currently seeking two (2) full-time, seasonal Interpretive Naturalist in St. Paul, MN. Days and hours of work vary, and included weekends, nights and holidays. Anticipated season dates will be from May 1st through late-September each year.

This position exists to develop, publicize and implement welcoming and inclusive outdoor recreation-based programs, activities, and overnight trips to:

• Engage users in various forms of outdoor recreation.
• Enhance the public's awareness, appreciation and understanding of natural, cultural and recreational resources.
• Foster resource stewardship.
• Inform the public about the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) programs and current environmental issues.
  
  

This position has an emphasis on providing public I Can! programs – outdoor recreation skill-based programs. The suite of I Can! programs include canoeing, kayaking, camping, fishing, archery and mountain biking.

The area served by this position includes state parks and trails statewide.

Responsibilities include:

• To lead or implement inclusive outdoor recreation- based programs, trips, and activities to provide participants with the skills needed to recreate outdoors independently in the future and to inspire interest in Minnesota's natural resources.
• Research outdoor recreation skills, history, and trends, both locally and nationally. Research statewide and local natural and cultural resources to increase knowledge, support work plans and improve visitor experience.
• To perform administrative functions so that efficient and orderly outdoor recreation-based programming will be provided and documented.
• Under the guidance of the supervisor, contribute to a public relations effort to inform the public of events, programs, the parks and trails system, or objectives of the I can! program.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in environmental education and interpretation, OR one of the physical sciences such as ecology, zoology, botany, geology, geography, OR a cultural resource degree such as American history, anthropology, archeology, OR parks and recreation management, OR equivalent.
• Three (3) months relevant public speaking experience in a formal or informal setting. Relevant speaking experience may include professional, volunteer, or internship work.
• Advanced communication skills sufficient to present outdoor recreation skills programs in a clear and understandable manner to diverse audiences and to relay important information to colleagues.
• Writing skills sufficient to develop materials, compile reports, and write interesting and educational program content.
• Advanced human relations skills to create and maintain positive, professional work relationships with staff and positive experiences for park visitors.
• Ability to work as part of a team with changing assignments.
• Skills in outdoor recreation such as camping, canoeing, kayaking, backpacking, canoe camping, and hiking.
• Ability to manage visitors and emergency response situations.
• Computer skills, i.e., MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience conducting outdoor recreation or interpretive programs.
• Experience supporting community events for diverse audiences.
• Six (6) months professional experience in public speaking, interpersonal communication, interpretation, or education.
• Well-developed problem-solving skills.
  
  

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
  
  

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 Eric Pelto at eric.pelto@state.mn.us or 651-259-5577.

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. To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Ashley Luecken at ashley.luecken@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.