Working Title: Authorized Level 2 Watercraft Inspector
Job Class: Law Compliance Representative 1
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources
Job ID : 94875
Location : Brainerd
Telework Eligible : No
Full/Part Time : Full-Time
Regular/Temporary : Seasonal
Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted : 06/16/2026
Closing Date : 07/06/2026
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Department of Natural Resources
Division/Unit : Ecological and Water Resources
Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift
Days of Work : Varies - Holiday and Weekend availability required
Travel Required : No
Salary Range: $20.68 - $27.72 / hourly; $42,428 - $56,877 / annually
Classified Status : Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union : 207 - Technical/AFSCME
Work Area : Brainerd Area
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 Division of Ecological and Water Resources is seeking to hire one (1) permanent seasonal Authorized Level 2 Watercraft Inspector located in Brainerd, Minnesota with anticipated season dates of mid-April through the end of October. Employees may be placed on seasonal layoff status at the end of each season and recalled at the beginning of the next season. These positions provide service to the State of Minnesota by educating the public about harmful invasive species, inspecting watercraft for aquatic invasive species, and assisting watercraft users with decontamination of their watercraft. Citizens are provided with training and education about the prevention of aquatic invasive species (AIS) transport.
Responsibilities Include:
Inspect and decontaminate watercraft and water-related equipment according to DNR protocols so that equipment meets compliance with aquatic invasive species laws and regulations.
Use computers or tablets proficiently to participate in online meetings or trainings and gather survey data during inspections and decontaminations.
Assist conservation officers as assigned by the Regional Watercraft Inspection Supervisor so that check stations are operated efficiently, and violation reports are timely and accurate.
Maintain mechanical equipment so that the unit(s) are kept in safe working condition, and down-time due to break downs are kept at a minimum.
Complete administrative duties as assigned in a timely manner so that the needs of the program are met.
This position requires the incumbent to physically crawl and/or climb under/around/into watercraft and trailers to visually inspect, to do the same while pulling hoses and operating high pressure, hot water decontamination equipment, and to load/unload/lift/carry high pressure/hot water equipment weigh up to 75 pounds, using proper Personal Protective Equipment and following safety procedures.
Minimum Qualifications
To be considered, you must meet ALL of the following qualifications:
Knowledge & skill in -
Strong human relations and negotiation skills sufficient to interact with watercraft operators in a professional, tactful, yet persuasive manner that can achieve voluntary compliance.
Communications skills sufficient to effectively explain the law, requirements and procedures; to listen well and respond appropriately; to answer questions, and to inform operators of the consequences of non-compliance.
Knowledge of natural resource management issues and environmental and biological processes sufficient to educate watercraft users about aquatic invasive species and to correctly identify a variety of invasive species in order to determine compliance or corrective action.
Excellent communication skills necessary to prepare clear, concise inspection reports documenting non-compliance, and to relay information to watercraft inspection program supervisors and law enforcement.
Ability to -
Maintain professional, calm and helpful demeanor in all circumstances, sufficient to represent the Department of Natural Resources positively.
Operate and maintain medium to heavy equipment using proper Personal Protective Equipment and following safety procedures.
Gather data through observation and asking questions sufficient to prepare and provide accurate reports that could serve as basis for legal or corrective action.
Effectively manage assigned workload by working independently with minimal supervision, sufficient to complete work duties as assigned.
Preferred Qualifications
Knowledge of a variety of @types of watercrafts.
3 or more months experience conducting inspections for compliance with statutes, regulations or licensing requirements.
An Associates or a Bachelor's degree in the areas of Law Enforcement, Natural Resource Management, Biology, Ecology or closely related field.
Demonstrated experience applying statutory requirements to factual situations with a regulatory entity.
Experience performing routine maintenance and repair of small and large equipment and tools.
Experience in towing and maneuvering a variety of trailers.
Additional Requirements
This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver's license with a clear driving record; per DNR Fleet Policy, only those 18 years of age or older with a valid driver's license may operate equipment and vehicles on behalf of the Agency.
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. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H1B status).
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.
