MAWQCP Certification Assessment and Research Coordinator - State Prog Administrator Principal

Job Details

Working Title: MAWQCP Certification Assessment and Research Coordinator
Job Class: State Program Administrator Principal
Agency: Minnesota Department of Agriculture

• Job ID: 92864
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: This vacancy is open for bids and for all qualified job seekers simultaneously. Bidders will be considered through 03/23/2026.
• Date Posted: 03/17/2026
• Closing Date: 03/23/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Minnesota Department of Agriculture
• Division/Unit: Agriculture-Saint Paul / MAWQC Technical Staff
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes, up to 25%
• Salary Range: $32.40 - $47.76 / hourly; $67,651 - $99,722 / annually
• Job Class Option: Water Quality
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - Minnesota Association of Professional Employees (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.

Job Summary

This position is located in St. Paul and may have the ability to telework. Must be available for reasonable travel, including some overnight stays and weekend events.

This position exists to coordinate all certification processes and among all local, state, federal agency and private industry certification personnel to achieve program goals and incorporating work product for the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program (MAWQCP), United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, other state and federal agencies with Clean Water Act and other regulating authorities, and private industry certifications, credit markets and trading mechanisms. Working with the Ag Conservation Services Section Manager, the MAWQC Technical Supervisor and staff, the Commissioner's office, other managers and staff, this position is responsible for all state and national certification assessment processes, including evaluation of agricultural conservation assessment policies and methods relative to water quality, practice adoption, systems promotion and outcome goals. The position coordinates multiple partners, including in development of reports respective to all areas of work responsibility. This position coordinates and supports local, state and federal public personnel and private entities in program design and delivery. Actions and materials must be consistent with and in compliance with the MAWQCP and MDA’s overall mission, goals, and objectives.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Three years of professional experience in environmental project management or site assessments working with water resource or agricultural issues; A Bachelor’s degree in an agricultural, environmental, or water resources science or a closely related field may substitute for one year.
• Ability to transfer technical scientific concepts and research findings to agricultural producers, agency personnel and the general public.
• Working knowledge of agricultural production and resource conservation practices and management in Minnesota.
• Working knowledge of agricultural conservation programs and government agencies.
• Excellent organizational, project management, data management, oral and written communication, and analytic skills.
• The ability to celebrate diversity and a strong commitment to a respectful and inclusive work environment.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license with an acceptable motor vehicle record subject to review.

Preferred Qualifications

• M.S. or higher in agronomy, water resources science; or in an agricultural, environmental, water resources or closely related field.
• Possess CCA or CPAg status from the American Society of Agronomy, CPCC from National Association of Independent Crop Consultants or NRCS Certified Conservation Planner level 3.
• Work history coordinating projects or process evaluation related to agriculture or natural resources conservation assessment data.
• Experience working in Minnesota with agricultural producers and public agencies.
• Experience managing research or other assessment data records.
• Detailed experience coordinating projects or complying with agricultural or water related government rules, statutes, ordinances or policy.

Physical Requirements

Field visits will entail moderate walking in outdoor conditions encountered potentially throughout all four seasons. Some lifting may be required, less than 50 lbs. Ability to work seated and on keyboard for long periods is required.

Additional Requirements

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture will not sponsor applicants for work visas, including STEM OPT extensions. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

A job offer will be contingent upon successfully passing a background check. It is the policy of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, as part of its hiring procedures, to conduct background checks on the finalist(s) for positions within the agency. The background check may consist of the following components:

• SEMA4 Records Check (applies to current and former state employees only)
• Employment Reference Check
• Driver’s License Check
• Conflict of Interest Review

Application Details

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 the position, contact Bill Fitzgerald at william.fitzgerald@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 Lauren Daniels at lauren.daniels@state.mn.us.

About Minnesota Department of Agriculture

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has served our state for more than 125 years. The work we do touches every Minnesota citizen every day.

Our mission is to enhance all Minnesotans’ quality of life by equitably ensuring the integrity of our food supply, the health of our environment, and the strength and resilience of our agricultural economy.

Our three general areas of responsibility include:

• Protecting our food supply;
• Protecting our natural resources; and,
• Cultivating our agricultural economy.

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.