What are the responsibilities and job description for the Interpret Naturalist 1 position at Minnesota Department of Natural Resources?
Working Title: Interpretive Naturalist 1
Job Class: Interpretive Naturalist 1
Agency: Department of Natural Resources
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
Established in 1891, Itasca is the oldest state park in Minnesota and one of the first state parks in the country. Home to the Headwaters of the Mississippi River, the park is one of the top tourism attractions in the Upper Midwest.
The DNR is seeking to fill a seasonal full-time Interpretive Naturalist position at Itasca State Park that will run from approximately end of April through early October. Much of this work involves presenting or assisting with interpretive programs and activities for spring and fall school groups and summer park visitors. The position may work a rotating shift that may vary depending on demand and scheduling needs, and will include evenings, weekends, and holidays. Some travel may be required to attend meetings and for outreach. The seasonal Interpretive Naturalist position will work closely with the park's interpretive naturalist team.
This position exists to develop, publicize, and implement welcoming and inclusive interpretation, environmental education, and information services. The purpose of these interpretive services is to enhance the public's awareness, appreciation, understanding of natural, cultural, and recreational resources; foster resource stewardship; and inform the public about the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) programs and current environmental issues.
Responsibilities include:
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:
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 Nettie Cole at nettie.cole@state.mn.us or 218-699-7202.
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 Paige Stanius at paige.stanius@state.mn.us.
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
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:
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.
Job Class: Interpretive Naturalist 1
Agency: Department of Natural Resources
- Job ID: 84136
- Location: Itasca State Park
- 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, occasionally for meetings and off-site programming
- Salary Range: $23.63 - $34.18 / hourly; $49,339 - $71,367 / annually
- Classified Status: Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees/MAPE
- FLSA Status: Nonexempt
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
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
Established in 1891, Itasca is the oldest state park in Minnesota and one of the first state parks in the country. Home to the Headwaters of the Mississippi River, the park is one of the top tourism attractions in the Upper Midwest.
The DNR is seeking to fill a seasonal full-time Interpretive Naturalist position at Itasca State Park that will run from approximately end of April through early October. Much of this work involves presenting or assisting with interpretive programs and activities for spring and fall school groups and summer park visitors. The position may work a rotating shift that may vary depending on demand and scheduling needs, and will include evenings, weekends, and holidays. Some travel may be required to attend meetings and for outreach. The seasonal Interpretive Naturalist position will work closely with the park's interpretive naturalist team.
This position exists to develop, publicize, and implement welcoming and inclusive interpretation, environmental education, and information services. The purpose of these interpretive services is to enhance the public's awareness, appreciation, understanding of natural, cultural, and recreational resources; foster resource stewardship; and inform the public about the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) programs and current environmental issues.
Responsibilities include:
- Research, develop, and present interpretive activities to a variety of audiences ranging from school groups to the public. Presentations are typically provided in-person.
- Research natural and cultural history information from a variety of sources for interpretive services (personal and nonpersonal) development and resource assessment.
- Assist with publicizing and promotion of the park and its resources, interpretive services, recreational opportunities, and resource management activities.
- Perform administrative functions by responding to inquiries from the public orally and in writing, staffing the information desk in the visitor center, recording program attendance, and participating in staff meetings.
- 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 information on environmental and cultural values, facts, and theories in a clear and understandable manner to diverse individuals and groups.
- Writing skills sufficient to develop materials, compile reports, and write interesting and educational news releases.
- Advanced human relations skills.
- Ability to work as part of a team with changing assignments.
- Understanding of interpretive techniques including the ability to assess audiences and the effectiveness of interpretive media.
- Skills in historical, cultural, and natural resource research and literature search techniques.
- Computer skills, i.e., MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
- Prior experience conducting interpretive programs for public land agencies.
- Experience supporting community events for diverse audiences.
- Six (6) months professional experience in public speaking, interpersonal communication, interpretation, or education.
- Knowledge sufficient to identify plants and animals.
- Understanding of educational curriculum and materials sufficient to assess their effectiveness.
- Well-developed problem-solving skills.
- Organizational skills sufficient to develop, schedule, and implement seasonal programs.
- Ability to manage visitors and deal with emergency response situations.
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
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 Nettie Cole at nettie.cole@state.mn.us or 218-699-7202.
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 Paige Stanius at paige.stanius@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
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
- 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)
- 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
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.
Salary : $49,339 - $71,367
