Watercraft Inspection Program Assistant - Planner

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. Apply with us and find your path.

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

• Job : 94900
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes, up to 50%
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Seasonal
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 06/26/2026
• Closing Date: 07/16/2026
• 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, Possibility of weekend or holiday work
• Travel Required: Yes, up to 20% to work sites
• Salary Range: $24.40 - $35.30 / hourly; $50,947 - $73,706 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE

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.

This seasonal position exists to assist in the implementation and operation of Watercraft Inspection efforts and to develop and coordinate watercraft inspection activities and awareness. Approximate seasonal dates run March-October. This position covers the geographic work areas of Region
3. This position will also coordinate with other DNR Divisions and government agencies where programs overlap. Work days and hours will vary, and may include weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities Include:

• Perform all job responsibilities in a manner that supports a healthy, safe, and productive work environment for all employees. Encourage a diverse workplace, treat others with respect, and contribute to work groups. Support the overall mission of the DNR.
• Perform necessary functions to assist the Regional Watercraft Inspection Supervisor in hiring, training and management of watercraft inspection staff to ensure appropriate levels of staff coverage for the period between May and October.
• Manage survey and administrative data collected and generated by the watercraft inspection efforts in order to ensure 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 activities.

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.

• Bachelor's degree in Planning, Public Administration, Ecology, Environmental Policy, Natural Resources, or related field OR two years paraprofessional experience assisting with implementation and operation of natural resource program activities.
• Communication, public relations, and training skills sufficient to effectively educate, engage, and provide outreach to internal and external 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 regarding agency programs and policies.
• Knowledge and ability sufficient to deliver training programs and educational materials for diverse audiences.
• Effective coordination…