NR Prog Consultant

Working Title: Development Consultant

Job Class: Natural Resources Program Consultant

Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

• Job ID: 94299
• Location: New Ulm
• Telework Eligible: Yes / Hybrid
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 05/19/2026
• Closing Date: 06/08/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
• Division/Unit: DNR Parks & Trails
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift / 8:00am to 4:00pm
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $35.96 - $53.32 / hourly; $75,084 - $111,332 / annually
• Job Class Option: Trails And Waterways
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
• FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional
• Designated 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 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is currently seeking one (1) Natural Resources Program Consultant Development Consultant located in New Ulm, MN. This position will assist and coordinate the Parks and Trails Division's development program on a statewide basis. The incumbent will provide leadership, continuous improvement, strong communications, and serve as the technical expert for the division's field staff in the implementation of large park, trail, and water access development projects, which includes, but is not limited to roads, renewable energy, water conservation projects, bridges, buildings, day use areas, overnight facilities, and utility systems. This position is day shift Monday - Friday typically working from 8:00am to 4:00pm.

Job responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Lead, coordinate, and implement new development and rehabilitation projects for parks, trails, and water access facilities, with funding from bonding, Legacy, water recreation, LCCMR, Land and Water Conservation, and state park road account programs on a statewide basis to ensure all programs goals, policies and procedural requirements are met.
• Lead, coordinate, and monitor the division’s facilities and infrastructure programs with DNR Management Resources to set standards for process, programs, designs, and initiatives related to division priorities.
• Lead, coordinate, and evaluate the natural and cultural resource impacts related to all statewide development activities by working with resource management unit and MN Historical Society archeologist and historians with consultation from the State Historic Preservation Office and other government agencies.
• Lead, coordinate, and monitor the capital budget expenditures for park, trail, and public water access development projects. The capital budget includes several funding types, such as bonding, Legacy, LCCMR, water recreation account, State Park Road account, and federal and local grants.
• Assist with the division’s capital funding priorities and budget preparation. Manage budgetary resources to meet program needs by preparing, justifying, and evaluating budgets and statewide spending plans.
• Represent the division in working with other department divisions, government organizations, parks and recreation and trail organizations, user groups, and non-profit organizations, such as the National Park Service, the Department of Administration / MMB, facilities design committee, the department sign committee, and the Parks and Trails Council of MN.
  
  

This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete an annual telework agreement.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in the area of Natural Resources, Outdoor Recreation Management, Public Administration, Public Space Planning and Design, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering or closely related field.
  
  

AND

• 3 years of professional level experience with managing, planning, rehabilitation or development of land and water recreation facilities and infrastructure projects or programs (e.g., trails, parks, recreation access, campgrounds or natural resource based recreation).
  
  

Additional Requirements include the following:

• Demonstrated written and oral communication skills sufficient to establish strong working relationships; work effectively as a team member and carry out work assignments and possess the ability to identify issues, resolve disputes, and recommend solutions.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously across various stages of completion.
• Ability to implement policies and procedures and clearly communicate program regulations and standards, to support overall program administration.
• Knowledge of fiscal procedures, including budget preparation and management, with the ability to collaborate effectively within a team.
• Ability to communicate work plans, proposals, and reports using written, verbal, and technical communication skills sufficient to understand, interpret and explain design documents to non-technical staff.
• Knowledge of outdoor recreational facilities, infrastructure development, capital project management, building codes, rules, and laws.
• Computer skills, including word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software sufficient to create and prepare reports and presentations, manage databases, and track projects.
• Interpersonal and strong communication skills sufficient to build positive, professional working relationships with co-workers and citizens.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in the area of Public Space Planning and Design, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering or closely related field.
• Knowledge of and experience in planning, designing or constructing recreation facilities
• Knowledge of state and federal cultural resource laws
• Proficient in AutoCAD and GIS
• Knowledge of and experience working with DNR policies and procedures
• Experience doing business analysis studies and reports
  
  

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. All job offers are contingent upon passing the following components:

• Employment Reference Check
• SEMA4 Records Check
• Criminal History Check
• Education/license 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 Stacy Smith at stacy.smith@state.mn.us or 651-259-5649.

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 Ashley Luecken at ashley.luecken@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 work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities 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 plans
• Fertility care, including IVF
• Diabetes care
• Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension 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 death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-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 development
• Federal 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 performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily 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.