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Parks & Trails Acquisition & Grant Specialist

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
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Parks & Trails Acquisition & Grant Specialist
 Job Class: State Program Administrator Senior
Agency: Agency MN Department of Natural Resources

  • Job ID: 89713
  • Location: St. Paul
  • Telework Eligible: Yes, up to 50%
  • Full/Part Time: Full-Time
  • Regular/Temporary: Unlimited 
  • Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
  • Date Posted: 01/30/2026
  • Closing Date: 02/19/2026
  • Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
  • Division/Unit: Parks and Trails
  • Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift / 8:00am to 4:30pm
  • Days of Work: Monday - Friday
  • Travel Required: Yes 
  • Salary Range: $28.26 - $41.43 / hourly; $59,007 - $86,506 / annually
  • Classified Status: Classified
  • Bargaining Unit / Union: 214- MN Assoc of Professional Empl /MAPE
  • 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

 

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is currently seeking to fill one (1) State Program Administrator Senior (Parks and Trails Acquisition & Grant Specialist). The days of work are Monday - Friday. Work hours are 8:00am. to 4:30pm. The selected candidate will report to St. Paul MN.

This position exists to assist and coordinate the Division of Parks and Trails acquisition program and grant implementation on a statewide basis. The incumbent will provide leadership, continuous improvement, strong communications, and serve as a technical expert for the division in the implementation of real estate transactional work and grant implementation of park, trail, and water access development projects, which includes, but not limited to roads, acquisitions, divestitures, leases, state and federal grant implementation. 

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

  • Coordinate, support, and implement planning and policy direction for the Parks and Trails Division's real estate program, including supporting field staff and partners on park, trail, and water access land acquisitions priority lands, ensuring they are consistent with division strategic acquisition goals and objectives. 
  • Lead, coordinate, and support Parks and Trails acquisitions and development staff with implementation of developing new leases, renewing existing leases, issuing license, as well as coordinate development of easement of external parties.  
  • Lead, coordinate, and support regional staff in resolutions with statewide land trespass issues to ensure division interests are incorporated. Lead, coordinate, evaluate, and recommend potential boundary changes to individual state park statutory boundaries statewide.
  • Lead and support special projects related to acquisition and development projects with capital funding. May include bond funding, one-time appropriations, grant funding, or other opportunities. Provide support for or participate in special projects as assigned. 
  • Lead, coordinate, and support the implementation of grant opportunities that support the Resource and Asset Management Section, the Acquisition and Development group, and regional staff. Ensure successful submission of applications and grant review requirements are met, including the allocation of funding, reporting, and close out's which support acquisition and development work.
  • Represent the division while working with other departments divisions, government organizations, parks and recreation and trail organizations, user groups, and non-profit organizations, such as National Park Service, the Department of Administration / MMB, facilities design committee, and the Parks and Trails Council of MN. 

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 an annual telework agreement. 

Qualifications

 

Minimum Qualifications

  • Three (3) years of professional level experience managing grants, including financial analysis to ensure grant budgets and expenditures are set up in accordance with the funding source and expenditures are appropriate.

OR

  • Three (3) years of professional experience working in real estate. 

While not required, a degree in natural resource management, outdoor recreation management, natural science, public administration, non-profit management, real estate, or a closely related field may substitute for a portion of the required experience: six months for an associate's degree, one year for a bachelor’s, 18 months for master's degree or 2 years for Doctorate degree.

To be considered, applicants must also demonstrate the following knowledge, skills and abilities:

  • Demonstrated knowledge of grant process management and document handling to effectively support the management of large multidimensional grant program.
  • Ability to implement policies and procedures and explain program regulations necessary for program administration.
  • Knowledge of legislative process, laws, regulations, and procedures governing acquisition and sale of state lands, land exchanges, and federal acquisition along with knowledge of farming and land retirement programs. 
  • Project management skills sufficient to demonstrate the ability to manage multiple projects at various stages of completion at one time.
  • Demonstrated written and oral communication skills sufficient to establish strong working relationships; work effectively as a team member and carry out work assignments and possess the ability to identify issues, resolve disputes, and recommend solutions.  
  • Experience using Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook sufficient to complete spreadsheets, generate reports and draft real estate documents.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in natural resource management, outdoor recreation management, natural science, public administration, non-profit management real estate, or a closely related field.
  • Knowledge of fiscal procedures and grant administration.
  • Experience with real estate transactions, granting or acquiring leases, easements utility licenses or easements
  • Project management skills sufficient to demonstrate the ability to manage multiple projects at various stages of completion at one time.
  • GIS skills, including ability to mark locations in the field, make maps, and manage databases associated with the Geographical Information System program. 

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 Stacy Smith at stacy.smith@state.mn.us or 651-259-5649.

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.