Peatland Resilience Project Coordinator - Natural Resources Program Coordinator

Overview

The Division of Ecological and Water Resources seeks to hire one (1) Full-Time Temporary Unclassified Peatland Resilience Project Coordinator located in Duluth, MN. This is a temporary project anticipated to go through July 15, 2029. The purpose of this position is to document peatland protection processes on DNR administered lands, lead coordination with Tribal Nations on peatland restoration projects and related initiatives, develop instructional documents to guide future peatland protection and restoration projects, and provide coordination and support for several peatland restoration projects on DNR administered lands.

• Coordinate an interdisciplinary DNR project team(s) contributing to peatland restoration projects.
• Project management of the Peatland Resilience Project and the project team, including data and GIS collection/inventory/analysis, developing an evaluation methodology, and providing decision-making support to DNR leadership.
• Manage CPRG funds distribution to Tribal Nations for peatland restoration and related work, including fund distribution planning, grant compliance, and providing technical guidance to establish project scopes.
• Collate process steps for peatland restoration and protection projects into instructional guides for future initiatives.
• Provide project management, contracting, team coordination, and other support for peatland restoration projects on DNR lands.

• Bachelor’s degree in hydrology, geology, ecology, conservation ecology, biology, botany, natural resource management, soil science, or a related field.
• Three (3) years of professional experience managing natural resource projects, with at least two (2) years in wetland/peatland ecology, restoration, hydrology, or related areas.
• Strong human relations skills, including listening, facilitation, and conflict resolution/negotiation.
• Proficient project management and team coordination abilities.
• Experience with facilitation methods, collaborative decision-making, and conflict resolution.
• Knowledge of peatland restoration techniques and methods, including peatland hydrology, geology, ecology, soil science, and related taxonomy.
• Excellent writing and communication skills to translate scientific findings for diverse audiences.
• Ability to balance multiple tasks with effective planning and decision-making.
• Budgeting, purchasing, and financial oversight capabilities.
• Ability to maintain productive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and mapping software.

• Advanced degree in a relevant field.
• Five (5) years of professional experience managing natural resource projects.
• Experience leading peatland, wetland, or prairie restoration or research projects.
• Experience in contract development for restoration projects.
• Experience in fiscal oversight and project reporting.
• Experience partnering with Tribal Nations.
• Experience collaborating effectively with diverse teams.
• Project management certification or training.

• Unrestricted Class D Driver’s license with a clear driving record; ability to operate agency equipment per policy (minimum 18 years of age).
• Ability to meet physical requirements and work in environmental conditions with/without reasonable accommodations.
• Eligibility to work in the United States without sponsorship; verification of identity and eligibility will be required.
• Background check may include:
  Conflict of Interest Review, Criminal History Check, Education Verification, Employment Reference / Records Check, and License/Certification Verification.

• Competitive benefits including health, vacation and sick leave, holidays, retirement benefits, life insurance, disability coverage, and more.
• Professional development opportunities and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support.
• State agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers; they encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds.