Working Title: Outdoor Recreation Leader
Job Class: Interpretive Naturalist 1
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources
Job ID : 90423
Location : St. Paul
Telework Eligible : No
Full/Part Time : Full-Time
Regular/Temporary : Seasonal
Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted : 12/09/2025
Closing Date : 12/29/2025
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Department of Natural Resources
Division/Unit : DNR Parks & Trails
Work Shift/Work Hours : Varies
Days of Work : Thursday -Monday
Travel Required : Yes
Salary Range: $23.98 - $34.69 / hourly
Classified Status : Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union : 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
FLSA Status : Nonexempt
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities (https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/diverse-workforce/people-with-disabilities/connect700/) : 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 Department of Natural Resources is currently seeking to fill multiple full-time, seasonal Interpretive Naturalist 1 in St. Paul, MN. Days of work will be Thursday- Monday. Hours of work will vary, and includes weekends, nights and holidays and overnight shifts. Anticipated season dates will be from early May through late-September each year.
This position exists to develop, publicize and implement welcoming and inclusive outdoor recreation-based programs, activities, and overnight trips to:
Engage users in various forms of outdoor recreation.
Enhance the public's awareness, appreciation and understanding of natural, cultural and recreational resources.
Foster resource stewardship.
Inform the public about the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) programs and current environmental issues.
This position has an emphasis on providing public I Can! (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ican/index.html) programs - outdoor recreation skill-based programs. The suite of I Can! programs include canoeing, kayaking, camping, fishing, archery and mountain biking. The area served by this position includes state parks and trails statewide.
Responsibilities include:
To lead or implement inclusive outdoor recreation- based programs, trips, and activities to provide participants with the skills needed to recreate outdoors independently in the future and to inspire interest in Minnesota's natural resources.
Research outdoor recreation skills, history, and trends, both locally and nationally. Research statewide and local natural and cultural resources to increase knowledge, support work plans and improve visitor experience.
To perform administrative functions so that efficient and orderly outdoor recreation-based programming will be provided and documented.
Under the guidance of the supervisor, contribute to a public relations effort to inform the public of events, programs, the parks and trails system, or objectives of the I Can! (https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ican/index.html) program.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in environmental education and interpretation, OR one of the physical sciences such as ecology, zoology, botany, geology, geography, OR a cultural resource degree such as American history, anthropology, archeology, OR parks and recreation management, OR equivalent.
Three (3) months relevant public speaking experience in a formal or informal setting. Relevant speaking experience may include professional, volunteer, or internship work.
Advanced communication skills sufficient to present outdoor recreation skills programs in a clear and understandable manner to diverse audiences and to relay important information to colleagues.
Writing skills sufficient to develop materials, compile reports, and write interesting and educational program content.
Advanced human relations skills to create and maintain positive, professional work relationships with staff and positive experiences for park visitors.
Ability to work as part of a team with changing assignments.
Skills in outdoor recreation such as camping, canoeing, kayaking, backpacking, canoe camping, and hiking.
Ability to manage visitors and emergency response situations.
Computer skills, i.e., MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
Preferred Qualifications
Prior experience leading outdoor recreation or interpretive programs for public audiences.
Experience supporting community events for diverse audiences.
Six (6) months professional experience in public speaking, interpersonal communication, interpretation, or education.
Well-developed problem-solving skills.
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
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.
Reasonable accommodations will be made to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . Please indicate what assistance is needed.
