Authorized Level 2 Watercraft Inspector - Law Compliance Rep 1

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources; Bemidji (MN); On-site; USD 42,428 - 56,877; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid vacation and sick leave

12 paid holidays

Medical and dental plans

Pension plan

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is hiring an Authorized Level 2 Watercraft Inspector in Bemidji. In this role, you'll inspect watercraft for compliance with invasive species laws, educate the public about environmental protection, and assist in decontamination procedures. Strong communication and negotiation skills are needed, along with a degree related to natural resource management. The role includes both field inspections and administrative duties, supporting conservation efforts in the area.

Qualifications

• Strong human relations and negotiation skills.
• Effective communication skills to explain laws and procedures.
• Knowledge of invasive species management.
• Ability to prepare clear inspection reports.
• Maintain professional demeanor and operate equipment safely.

Responsibilities

• Inspect and decontaminate watercraft and equipment.
• Use computers to gather data during inspections.
• Assist conservation officers with check stations.
• Maintain mechanical equipment in safe condition.
• Perform administrative duties on schedule.
• Physically inspect watercraft and trailers.

Skills

Human relations skills

Communication skills

Knowledge of natural resource management

Drafting inspection reports

Ability to work independently

Education

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Law Enforcement, Natural Resource Management, Biology, Ecology

Job description

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

Overview

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 Division of Ecological and Water Resources seeks 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 by educating the public about harmful invasive species, inspecting watercraft for aquatic invasive species, and assisting users with decontamination to prevent the transport of aquatic invasive species (AIS).

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 downtime due to breakdowns is kept to a minimum.
• Complete administrative duties as assigned in a timely manner so that the needs of the program are met.
• Physically crawl and/or climb under/around/into watercraft and trailers to visually inspect while pulling hoses and operating high‑pressure, hot‑water decontamination equipment, and load/unload/lift/carry high‑pressure/hot water equipment weighing up to 75 pounds, using proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and following safety procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

• Strong human relations and negotiation skills sufficient to interact with watercraft operators in a professional, tactful, and persuasive manner that can achieve voluntary compliance.
• Communication 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.
• Maintain professional, calm and helpful demeanor in all circumstances to represent the Department of Natural Resources positively.
• Operate and maintain medium to heavy equipment using proper PPE 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 to complete work duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of a variety of types of watercraft.
• 3 or more months experience conducting inspections for compliance with statutes, regulations or licensing requirements.
• An Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in 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 towing and maneuvering a variety of trailers.

Additional Requirements

• Unrestricted Class D driver’s license with a clear driving record.
• Ability to meet the physical requirements and work in environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status).
• Background check requirements: Conflict of Interest Review, Criminal History Check, Education Verification, Employment Reference / Records Check, License / Certification Verification.

Benefits

• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• 12 paid holidays each year.
• Low‑cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans, including fertility care (IVF), diabetes care, and 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.
• Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance.
• Tax‑free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care.
• Resources that provide support for physical, emotional, social, and financial well‑being.
• Training, classes, and professional development.
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (some positions may qualify). For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support: includes confidential program for mental health, relationships, grief, finances, legal issues, daily living and convenience services.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran‑friendly employers. We are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the State, encouraging persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants With Disabilities

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations for employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the state, call the Careers Help Desk at 651‑259‑3637 or email [e-mail] and let us know the support you need.