Regional Plant Ecologist - NR Spec Sr Eco Svcs

Working Title: Regional Plant Ecologist Job Class: Natural Resources Specialist Senior - Ecological Services Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources Job ID: 95674Location: BemidjiTelework Eligible: Yes, up to 50%Full/Part Time: Full-TimeRegular/Temporary: UnlimitedWho May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekersDate Posted: 08/01/2026Closing Date: 08/21/2026Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural ResourcesDivision/Unit: Ecological and Water ResourcesWork Shift/Work Hours: Day ShiftDays of Work: Monday - FridayTravel Required: Yes, regularly within the region, occasional travel outside of regionSalary Range: $29.76 - $43.69 / hourly; $62,138 - $91,224 / annuallyJob Class Option: Plant EcologistClassified Status: ClassifiedBargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees/MAPEFLSA Status: Exempt - ProfessionalDesignated 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. The Division of Ecological and Water Resources is seeking to hire one (1) permanent full-time Regional Plant Ecologist located in Bemidji, Minnesota. This position exists to support conservation, environmental review, regulatory decision-making, restoration, and land management to promote Minnesota's ecological communities and native plants with an emphasis on rare communities and species, and to support sustainable ecological diversity, function, and resilience across the landscape within the Northwest Region. This position will focus on prairies, savannas, calcareous fens, and open peatland ecological systems. Responsibilities include: Provide leadership, coordination and technical guidance to integrate ecological information into land management and stewardship on public and private lands to support sustainable ecological diversity, function, and resilience across the landscape.Plan, implement, and evaluate training and outreach activities so that the importance of biodiversity conservation and sustainable ecosystem management is understood and integrated into resource planning and management activities.Collect, compile, submit, and analyze data on plants (including rare plant species) and ecological communities, so that scientific knowledge is available to support resource protection, restoration, conservation, and management decisions.Conduct administrative responsibilities according to state standards so that activities are in compliance with department and state policies.Maintain current knowledge in the fields of ecology, ecosystem management, restoration, and land use planning so that scientifically rigorous approaches are used in conserving native plants and plant communities, and ecological and technical skills are continuously improved. This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis which is subject to change. This position will require reporting to the primary work location as needed for meetings, training, onboarding, and field work, among other activities. If approved, the employee would be required to complete an annual telework agreement. Minimum Qualifications A Bachelor of Science degree in plant ecology, landscape ecology, botany, conservation biology, natural resource management, or closely related field with an emphasis in ecology. Three (3) years of professional-level experience coordinating and integrating conservation of rare species, biodiversity, and ecological approaches into sustainable management of prairie, savanna, and wetland communities. **An advanced degree in a related field may substitute for one year of experience**Experience using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), including ArcGIS or similar software, to perform spatial analyses and create map products, along with proficiency in standard computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, and relational databases.Experience conducting ecological fieldwork, including vegetation sampling and the collection, management, analysis, and interpretation of data related to plant taxonomy, community ecology, and landscape ecology. Communication skills sufficient to communicate and present technical and non-technical ecological information through reports, presentations, training, and outreach to diverse audiences, including land managers, agency staff, stakeholders, and the public.Ability to integrate ecological information and priorities with social and economic considerations to develop resource management and protection recommendations.Knowledge of conservation biology, biodiversity, and ecological principles sufficient to evaluate impacts on native plant communities and rare species to support natural resource management decisions. Knowledge of common and rare Minnesota plants sufficient to classify native plant communities and document and describe conservation values (e.g., rare species).Ability to navigate rough terrain and difficult field conditions in remote areas using a compass, maps, aerial photographs, and GPS equipment.Ability to establish productive working relationships and to listen and respectfully interact with people holding differing points of view and values.Experience effectively managing and prioritizing a large and multifaceted workload and carrying multiple projects through to completion. Preferred Qualifications Advanced degree in plant ecology, landscape ecology, botany, conservation biology, natural resource management, or closely related field.Experience conducting surveys or working with native plants and plant communities in Minnesota, especially prairie, savanna, calcareous fen, and/or open peatland ecosystems.A thorough understanding of native plant communities and native flora of the Northwest Region of Minnesota.Experience evaluating potential impacts to native plant communities and rare species and developing science-based recommendations to avoid or minimize those impacts.Experience planning and delivering technical training, outreach, or educational programs related to ecology or natural resource management.Knowledge of or training in negotiation, conflict resolution, or collaborative problem-solving.Knowledge of soil science, limnology, hydrology, silviculture, chemistry, and/or statistics. 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 ReviewCriminal History CheckEducation VerificationEmployment Reference / Records CheckLicense / Certification Verification How To Apply Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers. Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Christine Herwig at christine.herwig@state.mn.us or 218-766-9744. If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA.DNR@state.mn.us. 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 Joshua Swanson at josh.t.swanson@state.mn.us. Working together to improve the state we love. What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? A sense of purpose in their workConnection with their coworkers and communitiesOpportunities 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 plansFertility care, including IVFDiabetes careDental and orthodontic care for adults and children 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted childrenPension 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 deathShort-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injuryTax-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 developmentFederal 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 performanceCommon sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issuesDaily 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 Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.