Board Conservationist

The State of Minnesota is seeking a highly skilled Board Conservationist to join our team as a State Program Administrator Principal. This is a full-time, exempt position that requires a strong background in soil and water conservation, hydrology, and natural resources management.

• Provide technical and leadership assistance to BWSR staff, soil and water conservation districts, and other local units of government in preparing and implementing water quality and quantity restoration and protection plans.
• Provide fiscal oversight, technical training, administrative guidance, and planning assistance to local units of government involved in implementing local comprehensive water and land management programs.
• Develop and maintain relationships with local, state, and federal agencies, as well as private and public interest groups, to advance the goals of the Board of Water and Soil Resources.
• Collaborate with other state agencies, including the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Natural Resources, to ensure effective coordination and implementation of water and land management programs.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, as well as Board of Water and Soil Resources policies and procedures.

• Bachelor's degree in hydrology, soil science, land use planning, natural resources management, civil or agricultural engineering, agriculture, or a closely related technical field.
• Two years of professional work experience in soil and water conservation, hydrology, watershed management, water quality practices, land use planning, or a closely related technical field.
• Oral and written communications skills that include the ability to explain technical matters to staff and officials of local government units and the general public.
• Ability to maintain self-motivation and work independently.
• Negotiation, mediation, and interpersonal management skills to resolve personnel and interagency conflict.
• Proficient in the use of word processing, presentation, and spreadsheet software, including technologies in virtual meetings.

• Advanced degree in hydrology, soil science, land use planning, natural resources management, civil or agricultural engineering, agriculture, or a closely related technical field.
• Six years of professional work experience in soil and water conservation, hydrology, watershed management, water quality practices, land use planning, or a closely related technical field.
• Experience working for and with local units of government.
• Procedural understanding of the grant programs administered by the Board of Water and Soil Resources, including the role of watershed districts and soil and water conservation districts.
• Leadership role in local government water program management.

The State of Minnesota offers a competitive salary and benefits package, as well as opportunities for professional growth and development. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from diverse candidates.