Conservation Assistance and Regulation Section Manager - NR Program Manager

Working Title: Conservation Assistance and Regulation Section Manager Job Class: Natural Resources Program Manager Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources Job ID: 96467 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: 08/26/2026 Closing Date: 09/15/2026 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 and events Salary Range: $48.21 - $69.21 / hourly; $100,662 - $144,510 / annually Classified Status: Classified Bargaining Unit/Union: 220 - Managerial/Unrepresented FLSA Status: Exempt - Executive 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 Division of Ecological and Water Resources is seeking to fill one (1) Full-Time Unlimited Conservation Assistance and Regulation Section Manager position located in St. Paul, Minnesota. This position exists to manage and direct the Division's statewide programs and services in water regulation, environmental review, land-use and dam safety. In providing oversight and management of the section’s programs and services the position supports the DNR mission. Responsibilities Include Provide strategic direction, planning, administration, and management of the Conservation Assistance and Regulation Section programs. Provide strategic leadership and supervision for Section staff to attain program standards ensuring consistent application of policies and procedures. Coordinate and act as a liaison between the Conservation Assistance and Regulation Section and other Division sections, regional managers and program supervisors, other Department managers and programs, and external agencies and organizations. Collaborate as an active member of the Division Leadership Team (DLT) and other statewide teams to interpret and translate the Division's and Department's mission and vision into operational direction. Direct the development and management of biennial budgets and annual spending plans for the Section; and identify and pursue opportunities to secure and leverage external funding sources. Actively seek and participate in professional development, so that leadership and management skills are maintained and enhanced. Promote and support a healthy, safe, inclusive and productive work environment for all employees. 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 Bachelor’s degree in natural resources sciences such as: ecological resources, water resources, natural resource management, or closely related field. A minimum of three (3) years managerial or advanced supervisory experience directing and supervising ecological resources, water resources, natural resource management (or closely related field) programs and staff. Management and/or leadership skills, administrative, organizational and interpersonal skills to direct, develop and engage staff. Ability to effectively work in a team environment by incorporation of multi-disciplined interests into decisions and actions. Experience working with elected government officials, local units of government staff, state and federal agencies, watershed districts, lake associations, environmental and industry organizations, community groups, and other key staff and officials from related organizations. Experience in negotiation, conflict resolution and consensus building with diverse groups in order to solve difficult and sensitive problems. Organizational and planning skills sufficient to develop and implement long-range strategic and operational plans and short-range work plans. Oral and written communication skills sufficient to effectively communicate complex information in varied settings to a wide variety of audiences. Knowledge of the legislative process and functions. Experience in creating and managing complex, multiple-account budgets. Ability to direct effective workplace safety programs. Preferred Qualifications Supervisory or managerial experience in state government. Five (5) or more years of progressively responsible management or supervisory experience in the areas of ecological, natural, or water resource management. Experience with Minnesota's executive branch budget development and fiscal management processes and requirements. Advanced degree in natural resources sciences such as: ecological resources, water resources, natural resource management or closely related field. Experience in developing legislative proposals and testifying before state/federal legislative bodies. Leadership experience in advancing diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion in the work environment. 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 [email protected]. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers. Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Melissa Kuskie at [email protected] or 651-724-2297. If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at [email protected]. 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 [email protected]. 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 [email protected] and let us know the support you need.

Manage and direct statewide programs in water regulation, environmental review, land-use, and dam safety. Provide strategic leadership, budget oversight, and coordination between division sections and external agencies.

Requires a bachelor's degree in natural resources sciences and at least three years of managerial experience in related fields. Must possess strong leadership, communication, and budget management skills, along with a valid driver's license.

• Paid Vacation • Sick Leave • Paid Holidays • Medical Insurance • Dental Insurance • Vision Insurance • Prescription Drug Plans • Fertility Care • Diabetes Care • Orthodontic Care • Paid Parental Leave • Pension Plan • Employer Paid Life Insurance • Short-term Disability Insurance • Long-term Disability Insurance • Tax-free Expense Accounts • Employee Assistance Program

• Occupational safetyPreferred

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Strategic Planning
• Staff Supervision
• Budget Management
• Conflict Resolution
• Consensus Building
• Interpersonal Communication
• Legislative Process Knowledge
• Environmental Review
• Water Regulation
• Dam Safety
• Land-use Planning
• Strategic Leadership
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Operational Planning
• Fiscal Management
• Workplace Safety

• Environmental & Sustainability
• Management & Leadership
• Government & Public Sector
• Science & Research

Minimum education

Bachelor’s degree

Minimum experience

5+ years

Apply by

Sep 25, 2026

Posting language

English

Working hours

40 hours per week

Office presence

3 days per week

Seniority

Mid-Senior level