Invasive Species Prevention Consultant

Sowela; Saint Paul (MN); Hybrid; USD 76,000 - 113,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Telework eligible

Job summary

The Department of Natural Resources Division of Ecological and Water Resources in Saint Paul, MN seeks a Full-Time Invasive Species Prevention Consultant to implement statewide prevention strategies and coordinate with partners. The role focuses on developing regulations, risk assessment, and leadership on prevention issues.

Minimal qualifications include a relevant degree and 1+ year experience with invasive species, plus strong communication and project management skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Conservation Biology, Ecology, Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, or related field.
• Four (4) years advanced professional level experience planning and evaluating programs of regional or statewide impact (an advanced degree may substitute for one year).
• At least one (1) year of work experience related to invasive species, pathways of invasive species introduction and spread, risk assessment, and/or risk management approaches.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with diverse interests, build constructive teams, cultivate and maintain strong relationships, resolve conflicts, and effectively bring together people to accomplish common objectives.
• Communication, presentation, and public speaking skills to synthesize and explain complex biological information and policy to diverse audiences and stakeholder groups.
• Project management and time management skills sufficient to prioritize multiple assignments, manage complex efforts simultaneously, and ensure timely completion of projects.
• Ability to use and understand computer and communication equipment sufficient to complete work effectively; this includes email, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software.
• Knowledge of how to interpret maps and use online maps and GIS products.

Responsibilities

• Develop statewide regulations and guidance accounting for economic, social, and ecological impacts of invasive species.
• Direct risk assessment analysis related to nonnative aquatic plants and wild animal species and their pathways.
• Coordinate within the State and with Tribal, Federal, and regional partners to integrate prevention efforts and DNR goals.
• Lead efforts to develop and maintain a communication program to reduce the risk of introduction and spread of high-priority species and pathways.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Public speaking

Project management

GIS knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Conservation Biology, Ecology, Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, or related field

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

GIS mapping software

Microsoft Office

Job description

Invasive Species Prevention Consultant
Job Class: Natural Resources Program Consultant
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

• Job ID: 97204
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes, up to 50%
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 09/29/2026
• Closing Date: 10/19/2026
• 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 travel for meetings
• Salary Range: $36.59 - $54.25 / hourly; $76,399 - $113,274 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees / MAPE
• 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 Department of Natural Resources Division of Ecological and Water Resources is seeking to fill one (1) Full-Time Unlimited Invasive Species Prevention Consultant - Natural Resources Program Consultant position located at our Central Office in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

This position implements an invasive species prevention program under the administrative direction of the Invasive Species Unit Supervisor and in coordination with other Invasive Species Unit personnel. This position implements statewide invasive species prevention strategies, develops policy and regulation recommendations, provides leadership and guidance on invasive species prevention issues, and coordinates with regional and federal invasive species prevention activities and policies.

Responsibilities include:

• Program management: Develop statewide regulations and guidance accounting for economic, social, and ecological impacts of invasive species to reduce the risk of introduction and spread of invasive species in the state.
• Risk Assessment: Develop and direct risk assessment analysis associated with nonnative aquatic plants and wild animal species and their pathways.
• Coordination and Integration: Coordinate within the State and with Tribal, Federal, and regional partners to integrate prevention efforts and DNR goals and priorities.
• Communication: Lead efforts to develop and maintain a consistent communications program to reduce the risk of introduction and spread of high-priority species and pathways.

This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a 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 Conservation Biology, Ecology, Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, or related field.
• Four (4) years advanced professional level experience planning and evaluating programs of regional or statewide impact (an advanced degree in a related field may substitute for one year of experience).
• At least one (1) year of work experience related to invasive species, pathways of invasive species introduction and spread, risk assessment, and/or risk management approaches.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with diverse interests, build constructive teams, cultivate and maintain strong relationships, resolve conflicts, and effectively bring together people to accomplish common objectives.
• Communication, presentation, and public speaking skills to synthesize and explain complex biological information and policy to diverse audiences and stakeholder groups.
• Project management and time management skills sufficient to prioritize multiple assignments, manage complex efforts simultaneously, and ensure timely completion of projects.
• Ability to use and understand computer and communication equipment sufficient to complete work effectively; this includes email, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software.
• Knowledge of how to interpret maps and use online maps and GIS products.

Preferred Qualifications

• An advanced degree in Conservation Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources Management, Environmental Policy, or related field.
• Experience working with federal, state, tribal, and/or local governments especially related to natural resources management, development of regulations, fact sheets, policy documents, and/or permit programs.
• Experience interpreting and/or implementing laws, regulations, and/or policies.
• Experience using GIS mapping software.

Additional Requirements

This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver’s license with a clear driving record; per DNR Fleet Policy, only those 18 years of age or older with a valid driver’s license may operate equipment and vehicles on behalf of the Agency.

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

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Kelly Pennington at [e-mail] or 651-245-0859.

If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at [e-mail]. 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 Joshua Swanson at [e-mail].

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 encourage 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.