Deadline: Thu, 06/01/2023 - 12:00pm Employer: MN Department of Natural Resources Job Field: Water and Soil Resources Other Job Type: Full Time Location: Minnesota Location Detail: Lake City Job Description: The focus of this position is to lead efforts for surveying and monitoring the status and distribution of native freshwater mussels statewide, which includes project-level planning, data analysis, and reporting. Communicating results of surveying and monitoring efforts with various stakeholders is an important aspect of this position. Additionally, this position assists with providing scientific information and advice to aid the Division's efforts to develop state policies, rules, and programs that improve aquatic mollusk conservation and aquatic resources. Responsibilities: Independently plan and implement surveys and monitoring of mussel populations at the project level to increase understanding of distribution, abundance, and health of Minnesota’s freshwater mussel communities so that mussel status and distribution is better known, and environmental review efforts include consideration of this important faunal group. Assist with the mussel program’s propagation and reintroduction efforts by identifying opportunities for reintroductions and through assistance with surveys, monitoring, and mussel care, as needed. Independently manage and analyze (including spatial analysis) mussel data to understand the distribution, abundance, and health of Minnesota’s freshwater mussel communities; communicate these results in technical reports and scientific journal articles. Inform and educate the public so that they have a greater understanding and appreciation of river ecology, ecological role of native mussels, fish and wildlife concerns, and habitat needs on Minnesota’s river systems. Remain currently informed in terrestrial, aquatic, and wetland ecology; conservation genetics; mollusk taxonomy; and related fields so that professional competence is maintained and enhanced. Remain informed about advances in techniques, technology, methods, and equipment related to mussel surveys and monitoring. Assist in contributing expert scientific information and advice to aid the Division’s efforts to develop state policies, rules, and programs that improve aquatic mollusk conservation and stream systems and watershed management. Assist with commenting on environmental permits and assess potential effects of environmental impacts on mussel communities. This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a full or part-time basis which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete a telework agreement. Qualifications: Minimum qualifications: Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, conservation biology, fisheries, or related field. Two years of professional experience in a biological field related to Natural Resources. Knowledge of biology, ecology, threats, and conservation actions, related to freshwater mussels in North America. Experience conducting freshwater mussel surveys. Experience in study design, data management, statistical analysis, or spatial analysis or biological data. Writing ability sufficient to write technical reports and scientific papers. Experience trailering and operating motorized boats. SCUBA certification Ability to present biological data to scientific or public audiences. Effective public and human relations skills. Preferred Qualifications: Advanced degree in biology, ecology, conservation biology, fisheries, or related field. Experience SCUBA diving in rivers and experience diving in low visibility environments. Experience designing survey, monitoring, or research projects specific to freshwater mussels and leading field crews. Knowledge of freshwater mussel biology, ecology, status, distribution, and threats specific to Minnesota. Knowledge of how river ecology, geology, natural and regulated flow regimes, habitat alteration, and human activities impact mussels and their conservation in Minnesota and surrounding states. Miscellaneous: Physical Requirements: Medium work- Occasionally lifting articles such as 50 pound bags maximum and frequently lifting and/or carrying objects such as heavy tools and file boxes. This job may require walking or standing to a significant degree on rough terrain or may involve sitting most of the time with pushing and pulling of arm and/or leg controls. Additional Requirements: *This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver's License with a clear driving record* It is a policy of the Department of Natural Resources that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. All job offers are contingent upon passing the following components: Employment Reference Check SEMA4 Records Check Criminal History Check Conflict of Interest Review Education/license verification Salary: $23.62 - $34.45 / hourly; $49,318 - $71,931 / annually Benefits: Our benefits aim to balance four key elements that make life and work meaningful: health and wellness, financial well-being, professional development, and work/life harmony. As an employee, your benefits may include: Public pension plan Training and professional development Paid vacation and sick leave 11 paid holidays each year Paid parental leave Low-cost medical and dental coverage Prescription drug coverage Vision coverage Wellness programs and resources Employer paid life insurance Short-term and long-term disability Health care spending and savings accounts Dependent care spending account Tax-deferred compensation Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Tuition reimbursement Federal Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program 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. How to Apply: https://careers.mn.gov/psc/mnjob/MNCAREERS/HRCR/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_SCHJOB_FL&Action=U Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers. If you have questions about the position, contact Kate Holcomb at kathryn.holcomb@state.mn.us or 651-314-6307. 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 Victoria Hansen at tori.hansen@state.mn.us.
