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Regional Plant Ecologist-Natural Resources Specialist Sr.-Ecological Services

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
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Regional Plant Ecologist
Job Class: Natural Resources Specialist Senior - Ecological Services
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

  • Job ID: 82515
  • Location: Duluth; Grand Rapids
  • Telework Eligible: Yes - Telework eligible up to 5 days per week however the position has field work.
  • Full/Part Time: Full-Time
  • Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
  • Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
  • Date Posted: 12/17/2024
  • Closing Date: 01/06/2025
  • 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: Yes - Occasional in state
  • Salary Range: $28.82 - $42.31 / hourly; $60,176 - $88,343 / annually
  • Job Class Option: Plant Ecologist
  • Classified Status: Classified
  • Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
  • Anticipated Start Date: 02/12/2025
  • FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional
  • 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 Division of Ecological and Water Resources is seeking to hire one (1) permanent full-time Regional Plant Ecologist, located in either Grand Rapids or Duluth, with an anticipated start date of February 12, 2025. The purpose of this position is to provide and integrate science-based information on ecological processes, range of natural variation, conservation, and ecological approaches into management of native forest communities. The position provides technical guidance on the distribution, ecology and current condition of native forest communities, native plants, application of ecological classification systems, conservation biology, and landscape ecology needed to achieve sustainable management and protection of forests in NE Minnesota. Examples of strategic priorities that will guide the position are Minnesota Biological Survey, MN Natural Heritage Program, Nongame Research Program, Scientific and Natural Area Program (SNA), Minnesota’s Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy (CWCS), Forest Certification, and Subsection Forest Resource Management Planning (SFRMP).

Responsibilities:

  • Provide leadership, technical guidance and overall coordination to the integration of ecologically based information into land management and stewardship on public and private land in the NE Region so that the ecological conditions and processes necessary for the long-term health of native plant communities and associated native flora and fauna are maintained. Emphasis on forested native plant communities but not exclusively.
  • Collaborate with other natural resource personnel to educate stakeholders in the work area about the integration of ecology, conservation biology, and forest management.
  • Collect, manage and analyze ecological data to support conservation and management decisions.
  • Conduct administrative tasks necessary to carry out responsibilities according to state standards so that activities are in compliance with department and state policies.

This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a full or part-time basis which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete an annual telework agreement. 

Qualifications

 

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in plant ecology, forestry, botany, conservation biology, natural resource management, or closely related field with an emphasis in forest ecology..
  • Three years professional experience coordinating and integrating conservation of rare species, biodiversity, and ecological approaches into sustainable management of forest communities. **An advanced degree may substitute for one year of experience**
  • Experience using personal computers, including demonstrated competence in word processing, spreadsheets, and Geographic Information Systems, specifically ArcMap or ArcPro.
  • Experience collecting and analyzing data; specifically pertaining to: community ecology, landscape ecology, plant taxonomy, forest management, vegetation sampling and analysis.
  • Experience conducting surveys of native plants or plant communities.
  • Technical writing skills sufficient to prepare and disseminate information to a variety of audiences.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in written and oral format to the public and professionals in the field.
  • Ability to integrate ecological information and priorities with social and economic factors and make recommendations to secure protection of natural features.
  • Ability to determine impacts of actions on rare species and habitats and propose actions to avoid or minimize adverse impacts.
  • Knowledge of sustainable forest management and common and alternative silvicultural practices.
  • Knowledge of common and rare Minnesota plants sufficient to classify native plant communities and document and describe conservation values (e.g. rare species).
  • Knowledge of native plants and plant communities that occur in the NE Region of MN.
  • Ability to navigate in remote areas using a compass, maps, and GPS equipment.
  • Ability to read and interpret aerial photographs and maps.
  • Public relations, team building, interpersonal and leadership skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Advanced degree in plant ecology, forestry, landscape ecology, botany, or closely related field.
  • Experience with Department of Natural Resources annual timber stand review process.
  • Experience using relevé techniques.
  • Experience conducting surveys or working with native plants and plant communities in Minnesota.
  • Experience with restoration of native plant communities.
  • Knowledge of invasive species in Minnesota.
  • A thorough understanding of native plant communities and native flora of the NE Region.
  • Experience in community ecology, landscape ecology, plant taxonomy, forest management, vegetation sampling and analysis.

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. 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.

If you have questions about this position, contact Greg Root at greg.root@state.mn.us or 218-328-8818.

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 Victoria Hansen at tori.hansen@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.