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Interpretive Naturalist 1

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
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Interpret Naturalist 1
Job Class: Interpretive Naturalist 1
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

  • Job ID: 80278
  • Location: _Fort Snelling State Park
  • Telework Eligible: No
  • Full/Part Time: Full-Time
  • Regular/Temporary: Seasonal
  • Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
  • Date Posted: 09/19/2024
  • Closing Date: 10/09/2024
  • 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, Occasional for meetings
  • Salary Range: $23.63 - $34.18 / hourly; $49,339 - $71,368 / 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 park naturalist position at Fort Snelling State Park that will run from approximately mid-September through mid-March. 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 park naturalist position will work closely with the park's interpretive naturalist team.

This position exists to develop, publicize, and implement welcoming and inclusive 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. 

Much of this work involves presenting or assisting with interpretive programs and activities for school groups and the park visitors.

 

Responsibilities include:

  • Research, develop, and present interpretive activities to a variety of audiences ranging from school groups to the general public. Presentations are primarily provided in-person.
  • Research natural and cultural history information from a variety of sources for interpretive services (personal and non-personal) 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.

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.

Additional requirements include:

  • 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 for public land agencies.
  • Experience supporting community events for diverse audiences.
  • Experience leading winter interpretive programs.
  • Six 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.

Additional Requirements

  • 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

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 the position, contact Jess Althoff at Jess.Althoff@state.mn.us or 612-279-3552.

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.