Assistant Area Wildlife Manager

Full job description 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.
Job Details Working Title: Assistant Area Wildlife Manager Job Class: Natural Resources Specialist - Wildlife or Natural Resources Specialist Intermediate - Wildlife Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources Job ID : 76547 Location : Owatonna Telework Eligible : Yes; partial Full/Part Time : Full-Time Regular/Temporary : Unlimited Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers Date Posted : 05/08/2024 Closing Date : 05/28/2024 Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Department of Natural Resources Division/Unit : DNR Fish and Wildlife Region 4 Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift Days of Work : Monday - Friday Travel Required : Yes; limited NR Specialist Wildlife Salary Range: $23.37 - $33.90 / hourly; $48,796 - $70,783 / annually NR Specialist Intermediate Wildlife Salary Range: $24.92 - $36.34 / hourly; $52,032 - $75,877 / annually Classified Status : Classified Bargaining Unit/Union : 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE FLSA Status : Exempt - Professional 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.
Job Summary ATTENTION APPLICANTS: This vacancy is being announced at two different job classes at the same time: NR Specialist Wildlife and NR Specialist Intermediate Wildlife. Only one position is being filled at the Owatonna Area Wildlife office location. The final classification and starting salary are dependent on successful applicant qualifications. There is only one Job ID for this vacancy, and you will be considered for the highest classification for which you qualify.
The DNR is currently seeking to fill an Assistant Area Wildlife Manager position in Owatonna, MN. This position exists to protect and enhance wildlife populations and capital improvements through development and management of wildlife habitats and facilities. The Assistant Area Wildlife Manager recommends development, maintenance, and construction on all wildlife management areas within the wildlife work area. In addition, they provide input into the evaluation, development, and management of wildlife populations, habitat, and plant communities as well as provide assistance to the Area Wildlife Supervisor.
Responsibilities include:
Assist with the implementation of habitat management, facility development, and maintenance in the Wildlife Area so that wildlife resources and public use are enhanced. Assist with protection of wildlife and habitat through habitat evaluation, land acquisition, and environmental review so that healthy and diverse wildlife habitats will be maintained on the landscape. Assist with the implementation of wildlife population management programs in a manner that is consistent with the Section of Wildlife goals and objectives. Promote and establish cooperation and partnerships with other DNR disciplines, government and tribal agencies, industry, nonprofit, and citizens groups, so that people work together to protect and manage wildlife populations and habitat. Effectively communicate wildlife management work and needs in order to gain public understanding and support for wildlife management programs. Assist with fiscal and other administrative activities for the Wildlife Area so that priority habitat and facility management activities are completed according to desired time schedules. Assist with financial and other reporting. Demonstrate accountability to Department personnel and interested stakeholders by adhering to Department policies and guidelines. This position requires moving to a significant degree on rough terrain in adverse environmental conditions. This position requires the ability to move 2 miles in 30 minutes while transporting a 25-pound pack (passing the Work Capacity Test, moderate level).
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 a telework agreement.
Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Transcripts are required for these positions. Applicants who meet minimum qualifications will be sent instructions for transcript review after the posting close date. NR Specialist Wildlife: Bachelor's degree in wildlife or equivalent field with wildlife emphasis. Transcript requirement: At least four (4) additional wildlife or ecology, or related courses, such as animal or plant taxonomy, comparative anatomy or physiology, soils or geology, mammalogy, ornithology, parasitology, etc. One (1) course in each: chemistry or physics; statistics; communication; and ecology. A minimum of three (3) courses directly related to wildlife management/biology. NR Specialist Intermediate Wildlife: Bachelor's degree in wildlife or equivalent field with wildlife emphasis. Transcript requirement as described above. Two (2) years of professional level (e.g., NR Specialist) wildlife or habitat management experience sufficient to implement wildlife and habitat management, facility development, and maintenance duties in a Wildlife Area. At either level, experience/education must include: Knowledge of wildlife and habitat management in prairie, forest, brushland, and wetland habitats. Technical knowledge of wildlife species identification, habitat relationships, food habits, animal behavior, parasites and disease, life histories, and reproductive potential. Knowledge of census/survey techniques and their limitations. Ability to identify common terrestrial and aquatic plants. Writing skills sufficient to communicate work programs, project proposals, accomplishment reports, survey results, hunting season data, and correspondence. Communication skills sufficient to effectively communicate and present complex information to a wide variety of audiences. Ability to become National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) Fire Fight Type 2 (FFT2) qualified through completing required coursework and field training within twelve (12) months of hire. Ability to develop and implement project proposals using available staff, funding, tools, and equipment. Education or experience in the use of GIS software and GPS units. Ability to safely operate 4WD trucks, trailers, UTVs, boats, motors, and other tools and equipment. Knowledge or ability to operate habitat management equipment. Ability to use various computer software including word processing, spreadsheets, data base, and mapping software. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree in wildlife biology or related field. Experience with prairie and wetland management practices. Certified in the application of pesticides for invasive species management. Experience with citizen engagement, conflict resolution, and negotiation techniques. Knowledge of wildlife damage management and hunting and trapping traditions, methods, and regulations. Experience with wetland management including shallow lake management, operation of water control structures, and coordination with other disciplines or organizations. Experience writing contracts for wildlife habitat or facility projects. Experience leading the work of contractors or work crews with habitat and facility management projects. A working knowledge of other disciplines such as fisheries, forestry, forest ecology, shallow lakes management, soil conservation, and hydrology to guide the development of partnerships and projects. Basic wildland firefighter training (S-130 Firefighter Training, S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior, L-180 Human Factors on the Fireline, IS-100 Introduction to the Incident Command System, IS-700 An introduction to the National Incident Management System). Additional Requirements This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver's license with a clear driving record.
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.
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 Application Details How to Apply Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the job information line at or email . For additional information about the application process, go to
Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Jeanine Vorland at or .
If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at . 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 Rebecca Mortellaro at .
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 job information line at or email and let us know the support you need.