Working Title: Acquisition and Development Specialist

Job Class: Natural Resources Specialist Senior Parks & Trails

Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

Job ID: 95804

Location: St. Paul Telework Eligible: Yes Full/Part Time: Full-Time Regular/Temporary: Unlimited Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted: 07/29/2026 Closing Date:08/18/2026 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources Division/Unit: DNR Parks & Trails Region 3 Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift Days of Work: Monday - Friday Travel Required: Yes Salary Range: $29.76 - $43.69 / hourly; $62,138 - $91,224 / annually Classified Status: Classified Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE FLSA Status: Nonexempt 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.

The Department of Natural Resources is seeking to fill one (1) full-time Acquisition and Development Specialist located in St. Paul, Minnesota. Days and hours of work are 7:00am - 3:30pm, Monday through Friday.

This position exists to lead and coordinate development projects, acquire property, conduct property management activities, and participate in the planning of Parks and Trails recreation facilities. This includes strategic coordination of acquisition and development opportunities in public water accesses, state water trails, state trails, state parks and recreation areas, state forest recreation areas, other units, and related divisional activity.

Responsibilities Include, But Are Not Limited To

Lead and coordinate development work plans of the assigned Parks and Trails programs so that work plan goals, policies and procedures are followed, and projects are completed according to specifications. Lead the land acquisition activities of the assigned Parks and Trails programs. Facilitate with the establishment of the partnerships, provide information, and be a liaison with private citizens, private business, interest groups, local units of government, other governmental agencies, and Department disciplines. Lead, coordinate, and evaluate the natural and cultural impacts related to all development activities by working with resource management unit and Minnesota Historical Society archeologist and historians with consultation from the State Historic Preservation office and other governmental agencies. Assist in all phases of planning from conceptual through development for the assigned Parks and Trails projects. To actively seek and participate in professional development so that leadership and management skills are current. Provide staff support for land management activities pertaining to acquisition and development projects so that leases, easements, cooperative agreements, potential trespass, encroachments, and illegal uses are identified and resolved.

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.

Minimum Qualifications

Associates degree in Natural Resources Management, Parks/Recreation, Business, Communications, or closely related field, and TWO YEARS of para-professional or professional experience which includes: creating work plans and/or preparing reports; providing lead work direction to staff; administering and/or supporting work that includes outdoor recreation and/or natural resources management programs, facilities or projects; administrative experience with budget and process management.

A Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree in natural or cultural resource management, parks and recreation, natural science, communications, education, public relations, business management, political science, public administration, social science or closely related field may substitute for one year of the experience listed above.

AND

Knowledge of outdoor recreation facilities and programs. Conflict resolution skills sufficient to resolve issues with individuals and groups. Communications skills sufficient to give clear instructions and provide appropriate responses to individuals and groups. Writing skills sufficient to develop and finalize work plans, reports, presentations and/or proposals using appropriate business language. Ability to use and understand computer and communication equipment sufficient to carry out administrative tasks and complete work effectively. This includes word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software. Ability to navigate natural terrain, board vehicles and watercraft (including trucks and large equipment), and endure physical exertion.

Preferred Qualifications

Master or Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources Management, Parks/Recreation or closely related degree. Experience prioritizing work and managing projects with multiple teams. Experience in preparing natural resource management plans, using GIS skills to create plan maps, and analyzing data. Experience coordinating resource projects. Experience directing staff, coordinating volunteers, and working with other agencies. Experience communicating with audiences, giving presentations, media interviews, writing articles and publications. Experience serving the public, negotiating, resolving conflict and facilitating small and large groups. Knowledge of Natural Resources outdoor recreation facilities, programs and policies. Human relations skills sufficient to establish rapport, motivate, secure commitment and coordinate consensus among staff and non-staff.

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

How To Apply

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Rachel Henzen at rachel.henzen@state.mn.us or 651-259-5875.

If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA.DNR@state.mn.us. 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 Ashley Luecken at ashley.luecken@state.mn.us.

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 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 careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.