Regional OHV Specialist

The Department of Natural Resources is seeking a permanent, full-time Natural Resources Specialist Senior Park and Trails – Central Region OHV Specialist in St. Paul, MN.

This position exists to provide professional assistance and support to the Parks and Trails (PAT) Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Program and the Central Regional Manager in the management of the outdoor recreation and natural resource programs assigned to the Parks and Trails (PAT) Division.  This includes the management of off-highway vehicle recreation efforts and stakeholder engagement, and the acquisition, development, operation and maintenance of OHV trails, state forest recreation areas, the Grant –in-Aid program, water recreation, state trails, and other divisional activities.

Responsibilities:

To represent the Off-Highway Vehicle recreational program as the regional point of contact, coordinate with and act as the liaison between project partners and DNR staff.
Support coordination of regional land acquisition and development activities so that OHV work plans, goals, policies, and procedures are fulfilled. Provide project development reconnaissance and monitoring, requiring the use of All-Terrain Vehicles, fleet and equipment operations, and at times foot travel over challenging terrain.  Provide GPS and GIS support for projects.
Establish, enhance and maintain strong partnerships with relevant local motorized clubs, state associations, sponsors, conservation organizations, chambers of commerce or other units of government and department disciplines to accomplish Parks & Trails program / project objectives.  Contribute in meetings with stakeholders and governmental units participate on department committees, task forces, work groups, regional planning, and division teams. Develop, direct, and implement a public relations program for recreation area visitors and neighbors, local communities, and public agencies.
To assist the PAT Regional Manager and Area Supervisors with work plans and budget management for operation and maintenance, in collaboration with other programs and disciplines.
Assist the Regional Manager in the operation of the Minnesota Trail Assistance Program (GIA) so that statutory and Department policies and responsibilities are fulfilled.
This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis which is subject to change.  If approved, the employee would be required to complete a telework agreement. This position may require reporting to the primary work location on an occasional basis for meetings, training, and onboarding.

 
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
Associate degree in Natural Resources Management, Parks/Recreation, Business, Communications, or closely related field, and TWO YEARS of para-professional or professional experience which includes: creating work plans and/or preparing reports; providing lead work direction to staff; administering and/or supporting work that includes outdoor recreation and/or natural resources management programs, facilities or projects; administrative experience with budget and process management.
OR

A bachelor’s or advanced degree in natural resource management, parks and recreation, natural science, communications, public relations, business management, political science, public administration, social science, or closely related field, may substitute for one year of the experience listed above.
AND

Knowledge of outdoor recreation facilities and programs.
Ability to establish and continue strong partnerships with local clubs, state associations, sponsors, conservation organizations, chamber of commerce and or other units of government.
Conflict resolution skills sufficient to resolve issues with individuals and groups.
Communications skills sufficient to give clear instructions and provide appropriate responses of complex information to a wide variety of audiences.
Writing skills sufficient to develop and finalize work plans, reports, presentations and/or proposals using appropriate business language.
Knowledge of financial management procedures.
Ability to use and understand computer and communication equipment sufficient to carry out administrative tasks and complete work effectively. This includes word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software.
Education or experience in the use of GIS software and GPS units. Ability to navigate natural terrain, board vehicles and watercraft (including trucks and large equipment).
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in budget administration sufficient to develop spending proposals, administer grants, developing and monitor budgets, etc.
Experience facilitating public meetings/presenting to diverse groups of stakeholders and units of government.
Experience managing people, work, and projects.
Knowledge of design, construction and equipment needed to manage outdoor recreation facilities.
GIS/GPS skills, including ability to take GPS locations and make maps and data bases associated with the Geographical Information System program.
Experience with design and management of OHV trails and recreation facilities.
Recreation experience with OHV vehicles including ATV’s, OHM’s, UTV’s, and ORV’s.
Personal recreation experience working with statewide or local OHV specific clubs.
Knowledge and experience with strategies and negotiation tactics related to the OHV public planning process.
Awareness of the public sensitivity to OHV specific issues.
Knowledge of natural resources management programs & policies including native and invasive species.
Experience resolving public disputes.
Experience in land management (e.g., trespass, fencing, neighbors, etc.).
Experience with managing/administering contracts/developing co-op agreements.
Experience in/knowledge of risk management (e.g., insurance, safety, etc.).
Knowledge of land acquisition, exchanges, easements, leases, permits and the procedures involved.
Knowledge of the National Environmental Protection Act, Wetland Conservation Act, Environmental Assessment.