Working Title : Mineland Reclamation Specialist Senior
Job Class: Mineland Reclamation Spec Sr
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources
Job ID: 95346
Location: Hibbing
Telework Eligible : Yes
Full/Part Time : Full-Time
Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted: 07/10/2026
Closing Date: 07/30/2026
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
Division/Unit: Lands and Minerals
Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
Days of Work: Monday - Friday
Travel Required : Yes
Salary Range: $28.75 - $42.16 / hourly; $60,030 - $88,030 / annually
Classified Status: Classified
Bargaining Unit: 214- MN Association of Professional Employees/MAPE
FLSA Status: Exempt- Professional
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 DNR is currently seeking (1) Mineland Reclamation Specialist Senior in Hibbing, MN. This position exists to inspect, monitor, evaluate, and provide direction to the state's mining industry in complying with the state's rules for mineland reclamation. Particular attention is directed at reviewing and administering Permits to Mine, ensuring that they are consistent with the statues and rules relating to mineland reclamation.
Responsibilities include:
Review and evaluate applications for Permits to Mine, Permit to Mine Amendments, Assignments, and Annual Reports and Operating Plans so that it is determined that they are consistent with the rules relating to mineland reclamation.
Conduct field inspections to determine if mining companies are in compliance with the conditions of their Permit to Mine.
Maintain a geographic information system (GIS) for monitoring, documenting, and administering the Mineland Reclamation Program.
Perform administrative and liaison duties as requested so that the Mineland Reclamation Program works efficiently with other divisional programs.
Review and evaluate environmental review documents to ensure that components related to mineland reclamation and closure are adequately addressed.
Participate in special projects, including Mineland Vision Partnership, reclamation practice improvements, and collaboration in the department of reclamation rules, revisions, and amendments so they accurately reflect state-of-the-art knowledge and principles of reclamation.
This position has a flexible work arrangement and is eligible for telework on a part-time basis which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete an annual telework agreement. This position will require reporting to the primary work location on a regular basis and will also be in the field regularly meeting with mining company representatives and inspecting mineland reclamation work.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in biological sciences, hydrology, geology, reclamation, soil sciences, environmental science or studies, environmental engineering, or related field.
AND;
Communication skills sufficient to correspond accurately and professionally and maintain good relations within and outside the DNR, including with other regulatory agencies and the mining industry.
Organizational skills sufficient in managing files and databases necessary to administer the Mineland Reclamation Program records.
Database management and GIS skills sufficient to maintain and update geodatabase of reclamation and mining.
Word processing and computer skills sufficient to prepare correspondence, draft and write permits, prepare DNR comments on permit applications, prepare post-inspection reports, and prepare decision documents.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in mineland reclamation, such as field monitoring and inspection, environmental review, and permitting.
Master's degree or PhD in a related field.
Experience with ArcMap/GIS and databases sufficient to produce maps for field use, structure files, and maintain and update databases.
Knowledge of Minnesota's mineland reclamation regulations and permitting, specifically Minnesota Rules Chapters 6130, 6131, or 6132.
Familiarity with mining and knowledge of Minnesota's mining industry and history, particularly Minnesota's taconite operations, operational best practices, and mine and process engineering principles.
Experience with Minnesota's environmental review process and the connection with permitting.
MSHA 24 hour New Miner Training.
Successful participation of the State of Minnesota Star of the North Fellowship program.
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.
