NR Mine Interpreter

Job Details

Working Title: NR Mine Interpreter
Job Class: Natural Resources Mine Interpreter
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

• Job ID: 85567
• Location: Soudan Underground Mine State Park
• Telework Eligible: No
• Full/Part Time: Part-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Seasonal
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 04/17/2025
• Closing Date: 05/07/2025
• Hiring Agency: Department of Natural Resources
• Division/Unit: Parks and Trails
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Varies
• Days of Work: Varies
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $22.57 - $31.89 / hourly
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 207 - Technical/AFSCME
• Work Area: Soudan Underground Mine State Park
• FLSA Status: Non-exempt
• 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.

Job Summary

We are currently seeking to fill one (1) part time (90%) Mine Interpreter position at Lake Vermillion Soudan Underground Mine State Park. This position will work approximately 36 hours per week and have anticipated season dates from approximately May to October each year. The park offers tours 7 days a week. Workdays are typically between the hours of 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with an occasional early start or evening. Due to the seasonality of the position, employees may be called to work weekends and holidays. Days off may vary.

A trip 2,341 feet down to the 27th level of the Soudan Underground Mine is one of the most unique tour experiences available in Minnesota. The NR Mine Interpreter will bring this authentic experience to others by developing and leading historic mine tours, walking geology tours, science-based physics lab tours and surface interpretation at Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park. The NR Mine Interpreter position will develop and lead mine tours and surface interpretation at Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park. This position provides interpretive services such as answering questions from customers, researching material for programs, assisting with tour movements, and maintaining the visitor center facilities.

Responsibilities include:

• Develop and present interpretive tours.
• Coordinate tour movements.
• Perform administrative functions to ensure orderly interpretive services are provided and documented.
• Enforce mine safety rules.
• Sell tour tickets and gift store items.
• Respond to medical and emergency situations.
• Maintain the visitor center facilities and surrounding buildings and grounds.
• Operate equipment such as the train, cage and shaft system and communication equipment in a safe and responsible manner.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

*CANDIDATES MUST BE 18 YEARS OLD or older by start date, in compliance with applicable law*

• Six months experience in interpretation; OR one year experience in cultural history, geology, education, or natural history; OR equivalent experience.
• Applicants who meet this requirement must also pass a practical exercise that involves developing and giving a short presentation.

Additional requirements:

• Communication skills sufficient to effectively present informative and interesting information on the mine and park to diverse audiences.
• Ability to consistently present a positive, professional and friendly image sufficient to create a good experience for visitors and co-workers.
• Ability to plan and execute educational programs.
• Ability to operate the mine cage and shaft system and train.
• Ability to manage visitors and deal with emergency response situations.
• Arithmetic skills sufficient to accurately collect money from the public for various fees, and make change.
• Ability to read and comprehend instructions.
• Ability to work in dark, damp and cool underground mine environments.
• Ability to climb stairs and emergency ladders.
• Ability to work in confined spaces.
• Ability to use a computer and cash register.

Preferred Qualifications

• College degree in education, geology, interpretation, history, or related field.
• Knowledge of iron mining history, methods, technology and geology.
• Knowledge of park rules, policies, and facilities.
• Knowledge of interpretive techniques and methods.
• Experience in public speaking.
• Knowledge of research methods.
• Ability to use a computer and cash register.
• Organizational skills.
• First aid and CPR training.

Additional Requirements

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. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H1B status).

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 Andrea Doerr at Andrea.Doerr@state.mn.us or 218-300-7005.

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.