Watercraft Inspection Program Assistant - Planner

Working Title:

Watercraft Inspection Program Assistant Job Class:
Planner Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources Job Details

• Job
• Location:
  
  St. Paul
• Telework Eligible:
  Yes, up to 50%
• Full/Part Time:
  Full‑Time
• Regular/Temporary:
  Seasonal
• Date Posted: 06/26/2026
• Closing Date: 07/16/2026
• Division/Unit:
  Ecological and Water Resources
• Work Shift/
  
  Work Hours:
  
  Day Shift (Monday‑Friday, with possible weekend or holiday work)
• Travel Required:
  
  Yes, up to 20%
• Salary Range: $24.40–$35.30 per hour; $50,947–$73,706 per year
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities:
  Yes

This seasonal position assists in the implementation and operation of Watercraft Inspection efforts and is responsible for developing, coordinating, and evaluating watercraft inspection activities and awareness in Region 3. The role requires coordination with other DNR divisions and government agencies and may include weekend and holiday work.

• Perform all responsibilities in a manner that supports a healthy, safe, and productive work environment for all employees.
• Assist the Regional Watercraft Inspection Supervisor with the hiring, training, and management of inspection staff to ensure appropriate staffing coverage between May and October.
• Manage survey and administrative data collected by the watercraft inspection effort, ensuring accuracy of data and related information.
• Implement public awareness activities in coordination with citizen groups and schools.
• Develop, evaluate, and make recommendations for the Watercraft Inspection Program and related activities.

• Bachelor's degree in Planning, Public Administration, Ecology, Environmental Policy, Natural Resources, or related field – OR two years of paraprofessional experience assisting with natural resource program activities.
• Strong communication, public relations, and training skills sufficient to educate, engage, and provide outreach to stakeholders.
• Knowledge of natural resource management principles and recreational resource use sufficient to explain invasive species impacts and respond to stakeholder questions regarding ecosystem health and environmental stewardship.
• Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software sufficient to prepare reports, maintain records, and deliver presentations.
• Leadership and organizational skills sufficient to coordinate field crew activities, prioritize work assignments, and assist in directing daily operations.
• Conflict resolution and interpersonal skills sufficient to identify, address, and resolve issues involving employees, resource users, and agency personnel.
• Customer service skills sufficient to interact professionally with the public, address concerns related to controversial issues, and provide accurate information about agency programs and policies.
• Knowledge and ability sufficient to deliver training programs and educational materials for diverse audiences.
• Effective coordination and multitasking skills sufficient to implement agency goals, develop and review materials, and collaborate in planning efforts and evaluation.

• Bachelor's degree in Planning, Public Administration, Ecology, Environmental Policy, Natural Resources, or related field AND at least 6 months of knowledge and experience in the Watercraft Inspection Program or related field.
• Experience with stakeholder engagement sufficient to establish, coordinate, and maintain effective working relationships with local units of government, lake associations, conservation districts, and other external partners.
• Knowledge, skills, and abilities in training development sufficient to design, coordinate, and deliver educational materials, presentations, and programs for diverse audiences.
• Knowledge of statistical methods sufficient to analyze, interpret, and oversee program data for decision‑making and program evaluation.
• Knowledge of database management systems and GIS software sufficient to collect, track, analyze, synthesize, and report program data accurately and efficiently.

• Unrestricted Class D Driver's License with a…