Research Scientist 1

Working Title: Research Scientist 1

Job Class: Research Scientist 1

Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

• Job ID: 97587
• Location: Hibbing
• Telework Eligible: Yes
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Limited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 10/09/2026
• Closing Date: 10/29/2026
• 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: No
• Salary Range: $26.89 - $39.22 / hourly; $56,146 - $81,891 / annually
• Classified Status: Unclassified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
• End Date: 12/31/2027
• FLSA Status: Nonexempt
• 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 Department of Natural Resources (DNR) provides outdoor recreation activities and manages Minnesota’s natural resources to create economic opportunity and a sustainable quality of life. We are driven to find talented, innovative employees to help us carry out this mission.

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 a telework agreement. This position will require reporting to the primary work location on a regular basis. During the initial training period, the selected candidate will need to report to the office.

This position will help organize, digitize, and develop databases that improve the accessibility and ease of use for the DNR’s historical collections. Responsibilities include:

• Apply expertise to help organize and curate documents related to historical mineral exploration (e.g., maps, cross-sections, correspondence, reports, and data). Documents exist primarily on paper and mylar and need to be made digitally useable and searchable.
• Apply knowledge of geographic information systems to georeference maps, digitize borehole locations and study areas, and maintain relationships between different datasets using ArcGIS software.
• Apply geological expertise to help organize and return drill core-related materials and convert historical data (e.g., assays) which exist primarily on paper and mylar into useable, digital databases, ensuring relevant data tables are maintained and updated.
• Perform special assignments from your supervisor as needed.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Earth Sciences, Geology, or closely related field, including courses such as mineralogy, petrology, glacial geology, field methods, structural geology, and sedimentology/stratigraphy.
• Knowledge of technology involved in mineral exploration, development, and the mining of minerals.
• Knowledge of the economic geology and petrology of the Precambrian rocks of Minnesota.
• Database knowledge sufficient to organize, validate, and maintain data generated from projects in databases and geospatial databases.
• Ability to use geographic information systems (GIS) software sufficient to georeference maps with an appropriate coordinate system, digitize point, line, and polygons, and create, manage, and modify associated attribute tables.
• Human relations skills sufficient to collaborate with private companies and other agencies of government.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Earth Sciences, Geology, or closely related field including courses such as mineralogy, petrology, glacial geology, field geology, structural geology, economic geology, and sedimentology/stratigraphy.
• Experience developing and conducting geologic research and fieldwork.
• Ability to understand how various geophysical and geochemical methods are used in mineral exploration and research.
  
  

Additional Requirements

No driving duties are required.

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
  
  

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 Matt Carter at matt.carter@state.mn.us or 218-231-8445.

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 Hannah Ziemann at hannah.ziemann@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.