Authorized Level 2 Watercraft Inspector - Law Compliance Rep 1

Minnesota Direct Care and Treatment; Bemidji (MN); On-site; USD 42,428 - 56,877; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid vacation and sick leave

Health insurance plans

Paid holidays

Training and professional development

Job summary

Minnesota Direct Care and Treatment is seeking an Authorized Level 2 Watercraft Inspector in Bemidji. This seasonal role requires inspecting watercraft for compliance with aquatic invasive species laws and assisting users in decontaminating their equipment.

The position demands strong communication and human relations skills to effectively engage with watercraft operators, along with the ability to manage the physical demands of the job.

Qualifications

• Ability to maintain professionalism and a calm demeanor.
• Knowledge about aquatic invasive species and their prevention.
• Experience interacting with the public effectively.

Responsibilities

• Inspect and decontaminate watercraft for compliance.
• Educate the public about harmful invasive species.
• Complete inspection reports documenting compliance.

Skills

Strong human relations and negotiation skills

Excellent communication skills

Knowledge of natural resource management

Education

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in relevant field

Job description

Telework Eligible: No

Education Verification

License / Certification Verification

Working Title: Authorized Level 2 Watercraft Inspector - Law Compliance Rep 1

Job Class: Law Compliance Representative 1

Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

Job ID: 92427

Location: Bemidji

Telework Eligible: No

Full/Part Time: Full-Time

Regular/Temporary: Seasonal

Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers

Date Posted: 04/21/2026

Closing Date: 10/02/2026

Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources

Division/Unit: Ecological and Water Resources

Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift

Days of Work: Varies - Holiday and Weekend availability required

Travel Required: No

Salary Range: $20.32 - $27.24 / hourly; $42,428 - $56,877 / annually

Classified Status: Classified

Bargaining Unit/Union: 207 - Technical/AFSCME

Work Area: Bemidji Region

FLSA Status: Nonexempt

Re-Posting: Yes

Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes

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.

This announcement will be used to fill multiple positions throughout the 2026 operating season for the Bemidji Region.

The Division of Ecological and Water Resources is seeking to hire multiple permanent seasonal Authorized Level 2 Watercraft Inspectors located in Bemidji with an anticipated season of mid‑April through the end of October. These positions provide service to the State of Minnesota by educating the public about harmful invasive species, inspecting watercraft for aquatic invasive species and assisting watercraft users with decontamination of their watercraft. Citizens are provided with training and education about the prevention of aquatic invasive species (AIS) transport.

Responsibilities

• Inspect and decontaminate watercraft and water‑related equipment according to DNR protocols so that equipment meets compliance with aquatic invasive species laws and regulations.
• Use computers or tablets proficiently to participate in online meetings or trainings and gather survey data during inspections and decontaminations.
• Assist conservation officers as assigned by the Regional Watercraft Inspection Supervisor so that check stations are operated efficiently, and violation reports are timely and accurate.
• Maintain mechanical equipment so that the unit(s) are kept in safe working condition, and down‑time due to break down is kept at a minimum.
• Complete administrative duties as assigned in a timely manner so that the needs of the program are met.

This position requires the incumbent to physically crawl and/or climb under/around/into watercraft and trailers to visually inspect, to do the same while pulling hoses and operating high‑pressure, hot water decontamination equipment, and to load/unload/lift/carry high‑pressure/hot water equipment weighing up to 75 pounds, using proper Personal Protective Equipment and following safety procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

To be considered, you must meet ALL of the following qualifications:

Knowledge & skill in:

• Strong human relations and negotiation skills sufficient to interact with watercraft operators in a professional, tactful, yet persuasive manner that can achieve voluntary compliance.
• Communications skills sufficient to effectively explain the law, requirements and procedures; to listen well and respond appropriately; to answer questions, and to inform operators of the consequences of non‑compliance.
• Knowledge of natural resource management issues and environmental and biological processes sufficient to educate watercraft users about aquatic invasive species and to correctly identify a variety of invasive species in order to determine compliance or corrective action.
• Excellent communication skills necessary to prepare clear, concise inspection reports documenting non‑compliance, and to relay information to watercraft inspection program supervisors and law enforcement.

Ability to:

• Maintain professional, calm and helpful demeanor in all circumstances, sufficient to represent the Department of Natural Resources positively.
• Operate and maintain medium to heavy equipment using proper Personal Protective Equipment and following safety procedures.
• Gather data through observation and asking questions sufficient to prepare and provide accurate reports that could serve as basis for legal or corrective action.
• Effectively manage assigned workload by working independently with minimal supervision, sufficient to complete work duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of a variety of types of watercrafts.
• 3 or more months experience conducting inspections for compliance with statutes, regulations or licensing requirements.
• An Associates or a Bachelor's degree in the areas of Law Enforcement, Natural Resource Management, Biology, Ecology or closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience applying statutory requirements to factual situations with a regulatory entity.
• Experience performing routine maintenance and repair of small and large equipment and tools.
• Experience in towing and maneuvering a variety of trailers.

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

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 [e-mail] and let us know the support you need.