Working Title: Mussel Survey Specialist

　　Job Class: Natural Resources Specialist Ecological Services

　　Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

　　Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers

　　Date Posted : 01/16/2024

　　Closing Date : 02/06/2024

　　Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Department of Natural Resources

　　Division/Unit : Ecological and Water Resources

　　Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift

　　Days of Work : Monday - Friday

　　Travel Required : Yes - Statewide travel to conduct mussel surveys.

　　Salary Range: $23.37 - $33.90 / hourly; $48,796 - $70,783 / annually

　　Classified Status : Classified

　　Bargaining Unit/Union : 214 - MAPE

　　FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional

　　Telework Eligible : Yes

　　Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities (https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/diverse-workforce/people-with-disabilities/connect700/) : Yes

　　Make a difference in the lives of Minnesotans.

　　The work you’ll do is more than just a job. Join the talented, engaged and inclusive workforce dedicated to creating a better Minnesota.

　　The Division of Ecological and Water Resources is seeking to hire a full-time permanent Mussel Survey Specialist at Lake City. This position exists to assist in planning and implementing freshwater mussel surveys and monitoring in selected streams, rivers, and lakes statewide in Minnesota. This position also provides dive safety support and assists with mussel data collection, research, reporting, and mussel propagation as part of the statewide mussel conservation program.

　　Responsibilities:

　　Assist with preparation for mussel survey and monitoring field work so that work can be conducted in a coordinated and efficient manner.

　　Assist with mussel survey and monitoring activities for mussels statewide in Minnesota. These activities will involve diving and snorkeling; driving and trailering boats; coordinating decontamination of boats and field gear; data management and reporting.

　　Assist with mussel life history research and propagation activities, including laboratory and field work, as necessary.

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

　　Minimum Qualifications

　　Bachelor‘s degree in biology, ecology, conservation biology, fisheries, or related field.

　　Basic knowledge and understanding of the biology and ecology of aquatic ecosystems, including a working knowledge of native freshwater mussel natural history.

　　Experience assisting with freshwater mussel surveys.

　　Ability to obtain SCUBA certification within 6 months of employment.

　　Ability to trailer large loads and operate motorized boats.

　　Effective public and human relations skills.

　　Preferred Qualifications

　　Current Open Water Diver certification.

　　Experience independently trailering and operating motorized boats.

　　Experience assisting in mussel surveys in the Upper Mississippi River.

　　Experience identifying mussels found in Minnesota.

　　Experience assisting with care of freshwater fishes and freshwater mussels (adults and juveniles) related to mussel propagation and host-fish research activities.

　　Experience coordinating field survey logistics and maintenance of field gear.

　　Additional Requirements

　　This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver’s license with a clear driving record.

　　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

　　AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

　　Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.

　　Reasonable accommodations will be made to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email [email protected] . Please indicate what assistance is needed.