Parks & Trails Associate

Job Details

Working Title: Parks and Trails Associate
Job Class: Parks and Trails Associate
Agency: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

• Job ID: 97357
• Location: Wild River State Park
• Telework Eligible: No
• Full/Part Time: Part-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Seasonal
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 09/30/2026
• Closing Date: 10/20/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
• Division/Unit: Parks and Trails Region 3
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Varies
• Days of Work: Varies
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $20.51 - $26.16 / hourly
• Work Area: Wild River State Park
• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
• Bargaining Unit: 203 AFSCME/Service
• Classified Status: Classified
• 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

The Department of Natural Resources is seeking to fill one (1) part-time (40%) seasonal Parks and Trails Associate position at Wild River State Park in Center City, Minnesota. The anticipated work schedule is primarily day shifts on Saturday & Sunday and will include working holidays, but could hours and days may vary based on the needs of the park. Working weekends is required. Anticipated dates are from mid-December thru mid-March each year.

The Parks and Trails Associate position provides information and assistance to the public, collects fees, maintains records, assists with daily clerical tasks as directed by their supervisor, as well as performs daily and seasonal maintenance duties at the park.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Register campers, rent buildings and collect fees for permits, merchandise items and consumables.
• Provide information and orientation for the public, so that all visitors are made aware of rules, facilities and activities in a way that conveys a positive image of Wild River State Park.
• Assist with income reporting, reservations, and other miscellaneous office duties so that accountability and timely completion is maintained.
• Clean buildings, grounds and facilities so that maximum cleanliness is afforded to all park visitors.
• Provide emergency services, so that the park has personnel who will act as the first response in activities warranting further staff attention.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Ability to manage work tasks effectively and work independently with limited supervision while prioritizing customer service and safety.
• Teamwork skills sufficient to help colleagues complete tasks efficiently and safely.
• Problem solving skills sufficient to handle uncertain situations related to customer service.
• Skill sufficient to welcome a diverse user base to Minnesota State Parks and Trails Units.
• Ability to operate point of sale systems and computers to accurately count and collect fees.
• Skill in customer service sufficient to interpret and explain program information to customers, clients, and coworkers, such as policy, procedures, eligibility requirements, application details, and payment methods in a patient and unbiased manner.
• Skill in math sufficient to make change, apply simple formulas, calculate account balances and amounts owed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience or training in a work or educational setting in any of the following:
• Software such as Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Retail sales and/ or customer service.
• Database and records management sufficient to accurately file and categorize documents
• First Aid and CPR training or certification.

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.

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

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 this position, contact Eric Reed at Eric.Reed@state.mn.us or 651-583-2125.

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.