Fisheries Section Manager - NR Program Manager

Working Title: Fisheries Section Manager Job Class: Natural Resources Program Manager Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources Location: St. Paul, MN Full/Part Time: Full-Time Work Shift: Day Shift (Monday - Friday) Salary: $47.38 - $68.02 /hr; $98,929 - $142,025 /yr Telework Eligible: No Travel Required: Occasional in‑state or national Responsibilities Provide leadership to the Fisheries Section to ensure staff roles align with department, division, and section goals. Direct the statewide fisheries program to meet department priorities efficiently. Hire and supervise staff to develop and implement programs, supporting division work and field operations. Direct the section budget to secure financial resources for all fisheries programs. Manage the legislative activities of the Fisheries Section, providing accurate and complete fisheries information to the Legislature. Represent the department on fisheries matters with other states, federal agencies, Tribal governments, MN state agencies, and multi‑state compacts and commissions, coordinating programs and resolving issues with NGOs, fishing industry representatives, lake associations, and the public. Demonstrate commitment to the department’s safety culture by providing leadership and guidance that encourages safe behavior and maintains a safe working environment. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in fisheries biology, ecology, management, or a closely related area. Four (4) years of managerial or advanced supervisory experience directing and supervising fisheries management or research, sufficient to advise and support section operations. Experience directing and overseeing budgets, programs, projects, and professional staff. Experience in long‑range and strategic planning capable of developing operational and project plans. Organizational skills that enable prioritizing long‑range issues while meeting short‑term operational demands. Human relations and interpersonal skills for engaging staff and building interdisciplinary partnerships and teams. Communication skills for accurate and effective information transmission in verbal and written formats, and for establishing strong working relationships with DNR leadership, staff, and external partners. Conflict‑management skills to analyze, resolve ambiguous or controversial situations, and make difficult decisions on policy, program direction, staff, and budgets. Problem‑solving skills to define, analyze, prioritize, and recommend solutions to complex operational, policy, and program problems. Ability to work effectively with elected officials, organizations, boards, or councils. Preferred Qualifications Knowledge of current conservation issues facing Minnesota natural resources. Knowledge of a wide variety of aquatic habitat management approaches such as restoration, enhancement, and protection in a collaborative environment. Knowledge of comprehensive strategic and operational planning procedures to support species, habitat, unit, and system plans. Knowledge of statutes, policies, and legislative processes. Additional Requirements Unrestricted Class D Driver’s license with a clear driving record (age 18 or older). Ability to meet the physical requirements and work in environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations. Verification of identity and eligibility to work in the United States; candidates must be legally authorized to work without sponsorship. Background check including Conflict of Interest Review, Criminal History Check, Education Verification, Employment Reference / Records Check, and License / Certification Verification. Benefits Paid vacation and sick leave 12 paid holidays each year Low‑cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans (including fertility care, diabetes care, and orthodontic care for adults and children) 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children Pension plan after at least three years of work Employer‑paid life insurance Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance Tax‑free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care Resources supporting physical, emotional, social, and financial well‑being Training, classes, and professional development opportunities Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility (some positions may qualify) Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential counseling for mental health, relationship challenges, finances, and legal issues Daily Living/Convenience Services such as chore services, home repair, trip planning, and child/elder care Equal Opportunity Employer Minnesota state agencies are equal‑opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran‑friendly employers. They are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and encourage persons of color, Indigenous communities, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Applicants with disabilities: Minnesota state agencies provide reasonable accommodations. If you need assistance in searching or applying, contact the Careers Help Desk. #J-18808-Ljbffr