You are viewing a preview of this job. Log in or register to view more details about this job.

Interpretive Naturalist 1

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Email

Interpretive Naturalist 1
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

  • Job ID: 90954
  • Location: Buffalo River State Park
  • Telework Eligible: No
  • Full/Part Time: Full-Time
  • Regular/Temporary: Seasonal
  • Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
  • Date Posted: 12/30/2025
  • Closing Date: 01/20/2026
  • Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
  • Division/Unit: Parks & Trails / Region 1
  • Work Shift/Work Hours: Rotating Shift
  • Days of Work: Tuesday - Saturday
  • Travel Required: Yes, occasionally for meetings and trainings.
  • Salary Range: $23.98 - $34.69 / hourly; $50,070 - $72,432 / annually
  • 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.

Job Summary

 

The DNR is seeking to fill one (1) seasonal full-time, Interpretive Naturalist position at Buffalo River State Park near Glyndon, MN. The typical anticipated season dates are from April through October; however, the actual season dates may start later or end earlier to meet contractual obligations or agency needs. The anticipated work schedule will generally be days shift that include weekends and holidays. 

The Interpretive Naturalist 1 position develops, publicizes, and presents interpretive and environmental education programs to diverse audiences. This position provides information services to enhance the public’s awareness, appreciation and understanding of the natural, cultural, and recreational resources and their management at Buffalo River State Park, Bluestem Scientific and Natural Areas (SNA), and other nearby SNAs; foster resource stewardship; and inform the public about DNR programs and current environmental issues. 

Responsibilities include:

  • Developing and presenting interpretive, environmental education and recreational activities to promote public awareness, appreciation and understanding of local, natural, cultural, and recreational resources and their management and to foster resource stewardship.
  • Under the guidance of the supervisor, contributing to the park’s and scientific and natural areas, public relations effort, informing the public about resources, interpretive programs and events, facilities, or management objectives of the Divisions and Department.
  • Performing administrative operations to ensure orderly and efficient interpretive services.
  • Researching statewide and local natural and cultural resources to increase knowledge, support work plans and improve visitor experience.
  • Performing all job responsibilities in a manner that supports a healthy, safe, and productive work environment for all employees. Encouraging a diverse workplace, treating others with respect, and contributing to work groups. Support the overall mission of the DNR.

Qualifications

 

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in one of the physical sciences such as ecology, zoology, botany, geology, geography, OR a cultural resource focused degree such as American history, anthropology, archeology, OR parks and recreation management OR environmental education and interpretation OR equivalent.
  • Three months relevant public speaking experience in a formal or informal setting. Relevant speaking experience may include professional, volunteer, or internship work.
  • Advanced oral 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/willingness 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.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior experience conducting interpretive programs in Minnesota State Parks.
  • Knowledge and understanding of Minnesota Scientific and Natural Areas.
  • Six months professional experience in public speaking, interpersonal communication, interpretation, or education.
  • Understanding of Minnesota's natural and cultural history and resource management.
  • Knowledge sufficient to identify plants and animals.
  • Knowledge of park resources.
  • Background in natural/cultural resource interpretation.
  • Understanding of basic interpretive exhibit and display standards and techniques.
  • Understanding of educational curriculum and materials sufficient to assess their effectiveness.
  • Illustration/photography/visual presentation skills.
  • Well-developed problem-solving skills.
  • Organizational skills sufficient to develop, schedule and implement summer programs.
  • Ability to manage visitors and deal with emergency response situations.

Additional Requirements

This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver's License with a clear driving record; per DNR Fleet Policy, only those 18 years of age or older with a valid driver's license may operate equipment and vehicles on behalf of the agency.

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 Brian Nelson at brian.a.nelson@state.mn.us or 218-498-2124

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 Joshua Swanson at josh.t.swanson@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.