Alaska Public Access Defense Section Chief

State of Alaska; Anchorage (AK); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Alaska's Department of Natural Resources, Division of Mining, Land & Water, seeks a Natural Resource Manager 3 – Section Chief for the Public Access Assertion & Defense unit in Anchorage. Lead statewide policy to assert and defend navigable waters, submerged lands, RS 2477 rights, and related public access initiatives.

Candidate will direct PAAD staff, manage budgets, coordinate with federal agencies and Native Corporations, and guide high‑level negotiations.

Qualifications

• Competency-based minimum qualifications covering administration/management and project leadership.
• Knowledge of environmental science and natural resources policy as they relate to public access.
• Experience in negotiations, stakeholder outreach, and cross‑agency collaboration.
• Ability to lead large teams and manage complex litigation or administrative actions.

Responsibilities

• Lead statewide policy and strategy to assert and defend Alaska’s navigable waters and public rights.
• Direct PAAD section operations, budget, and interdisciplinary project teams.
• Oversee fieldwork, negotiations with federal agencies, Native Corporations, and landowners.
• Provide analyses and policy recommendations to DNR leadership and the Governor.

Skills

Oral and Written Communication

Creative Thinking

Legal, Government, and Jurisprudence

Project Management

Vision

Education

Education in natural resource field or law

Job description

State of Alaska's Department of Natural Resources, Division of Mining, Land & Water, seeks a Natural Resource Manager 3 – Section Chief for the Public Access Assertion & Defense unit in Anchorage. Lead statewide policy to assert and defend navigable waters, submerged lands, RS 2477 rights, and related public access initiatives.

Candidate will direct PAAD staff, manage budgets, coordinate with federal agencies and Native Corporations, and guide high‑level negotiations.