Public Water Inventory Update Support - Planner Senior State

State of Minnesota; Saint Paul (MN); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 88,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Telework up to 50%

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

The Division of Ecological and Water Resources within the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources seeks to fill one permanent full-time Public Water Inventory Update Support – Planner Senior State position in St. Paul, MN.

The role supports delivery of the Public Waters Inventory update mandated by the 2024 Minnesota State Legislature. Responsibilities include managing projects, leading outreach, coordinating public meetings, and maintaining engagement with diverse stakeholders while ensuring

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, botany, conservation, ecology, environmental science, water or natural resources management, or related field.
• Two years of project management experience leading a team or project in a natural resources or environmental field.
• Written and verbal communications capable of translating technical information for public audiences.
• Interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience coordinating meetings and public engagement activities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Project management activities supporting the technical review team, including planning resources, schedule management, and problem-solving.
• Lead public outreach and engagement efforts, including facility and logistics planning and public meetings.
• Support public comment process with robust engagement and responses with technical support.
• Maintain project website and communication tools throughout the project lifecycle.
• Assist with other project management support activities within the section and division.
• Ensure tasks are carried out efficiently and in line with policies and protocols.

Skills

Project management

Public communications

Interpersonal skills

Planning facilitation

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biology/environmental science/water resources

Advanced degree (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Public Water Inventory Update Support - Planner Senior State

At the DNR, we are committed to the conservation and management of the state's natural resources for outdoor recreation, economic development, and a sustainable quality of life.

Working Title: Public Water Inventory Update Support
Job Class: Planner Senior State
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

• Job ID: 96063
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes, up to 50% upon successful completion of probationary period
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 08/15/2026
• Closing Date: 09/04/2026
• 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, occasionally as needed for meetings
• Salary Range: $28.75 - $42.16 / hourly; $60,030 - $88,030 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees/MAPE .

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 fill one (1) permanent full-time Public Water Inventory Update Support - Planner Senior State position located in St. Paul, Minnesota. This position ensures the protection of Minnesota public waters through the department's water regulatory activities. The primary purpose of this position is to support delivery of the Public Waters Inventory (PWI) Update as directed by the 2024 Minnesota State Legislature.

Responsibilities include:

• Project management activities supporting the technical review team in their evaluation of lakes, wetlands, and watercourses including planning resources, schedule management, and problem-solving.
• Lead public outreach and engagement efforts, including facility and logistics planning, communications and implementation of public meetings.
• Support public comment process by ensuring robust public engagement, comment management, and development of responses with technical support.
• Maintain project website and communication tools throughout life of the project.
• Assist with other project management support activities within the section and division.
• Ensure all tasks are carried out efficiently, consistently, and in accordance with established division and agency-level policies and protocols.

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

• A Bachelor’s degree in biology, botany, conservation, ecology, environmental science, water or natural resources management, or related field.
• Two (2) years demonstrated project management experience leading a team or project in a natural resources or environmental field, including planning, coordination, and tracking of timelines.
• Written and verbal communications skills sufficient to translate highly technical information into public-facing documents and presentations that are understandable, accessible, and audience-specific.
• Interpersonal skills sufficient to cultivate professional networks, build consensus, resolve conflicts, and effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in planning and facilitation skills sufficient to coordinate and facilitate project team meetings and/or workshops, public meetings, and public engagement.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite sufficient to produce and maintain word documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Four (4) years demonstrated project management experience leading a team or project in a natural resources or environmental field, including planning, coordination, and tracking of timelines.
• Advanced degree in biology, botany, conservation, ecology, environmental science, water or natural resources management, or related field.
• Experience with water resource regulation administration.
• Experience developing, administering, and tracking workflow processes.
• Experience in project management software tools such as Microsoft Project.

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:

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] .

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

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 )

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.