Job Information
State of Minnesota Assistant Aquatic Invasive Species Specialist / NR Spec Int Eco Svcs in St. Paul, Minnesota
Working Title: Assistant Aquatic Invasive Species Specialist
Job Class: Natural Resources Specialist Intermediate Ecological Services
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources
Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted : 04/11/2024
Closing Date : 05/01/2024
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Department of Natural Resources
Division/Unit : Ecological and Water Resources
Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift
Days of Work : Monday - Friday
Travel Required : No
Salary Range: $24.92 - $36.34 / hourly; $52,032 - $75,877 / annually
Classified Status : Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union : 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
FLSA Status : Exempt - Professional
Telework Eligible : Yes
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities (https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/diverse-workforce/people-with-disabilities/connect700/) : Yes
Make a difference in the lives of Minnesotans.
The work you’ll do is more than just a job. Join the talented, engaged and inclusive workforce dedicated to creating a better Minnesota.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is currently seeking an Aquatic Invasive Species Specialist to work in St. Paul, Minnesota. This position will assist with assessments of aquatic ecosystems; analyze and communicate assessment results to internal and external clients. The incumbent will assist with aquatic plant or animal surveys of lakes, rivers, and deep-water wetlands throughout the Central Region of the state, focusing on invasive aquatic plant or animal species prevention and management activities of DNR programs and to our customers. The position will collect and process plant and animal specimens, enter data from field surveys into relevant databases, write reports, create maps and assist Specialist with permits related to invasive aquatic plant management or prevention. This position will provide technical expertise on Minnesota's invasive aquatic plant and animal species through various trainings, responding to data requests, and outreach events.. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Provide regulatory support for the AIS program so that native species and their habitats are protected and management, transfer, and use of invasive species is controlled through the issuance of permits.
Monitor and document populations of selected aquatic invasive species in the district so that data is stored in a central database for use in program reports.
Manage populations of selected harmful invasive species so that the spread of these species can be prevented or slowed and that the impact of those species on water recreation, industry, and natural ecosystems is reduced.
Prepare and deliver invasive species information to educate and inform the public so that they may help prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species.
This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete a telework agreement.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in the natural sciences or closely related field.
Two years' related professional level experience in conducting biological surveys in aquatic habitats or working with invasive species . An advanced degree may substitute for one year of experience
Knowledge of plant field survey techniques, and ability to identify aquatic plant and invasive invertebrate species found in Minnesota.
Understanding of the ecology of Minnesota's natural ecosystems, with particular emphasis on aquatic ecology and the impacts caused by invasive species.
Ability to conduct field surveys of aquatic plants and animals independently or with others using appropriate protocols, sometimes under adverse weather conditions.
Ability to compile, summarize, evaluate and interpret field data so that information can be used in the production of final reports and maps.
Organizational skills sufficient to meet permit processing requirements and prioritize work.
Interpersonal and communications skills sufficient to interact with the public, local units of government and internal staff concerning invasive species prevention and management
Experience with personal computers, including demonstrated competence in word processing, spreadsheets, statistical software, and Geographic Information Systems, particularly ArcMap.
Demonstrated technical writing skills sufficient to prepare and disseminate information to a variety of audiences.
Preferred Qualifications
Advanced degree in the natural sciences or closely related field.
At least one year of professional experience in aquatic invasive species field surveys
At least one year of professional experience designing and implementing surveys of aquatic plants
Knowledge of taxonomic keys to aquatic plants.
Lead worker experience.
Applied Knowledge with Aquatic and Terrestrial Invasive Species Laws and Rules.
Experience with data management and analysis.
Experience with File maker Pro
SCUBA Certification
Ability to launch and drive a boat independently and navigate in remote areas using a compass, maps, and GPS equipment.
Additional Requirements
This position requires and 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
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.
Reasonable accommodations will be made to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . Please indicate what assistance is needed.