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Water Monitoring Supervisor-Hydrologist 4

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
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Water Monitoring and Surveys Unit Supervisor
Job Class: Hydrologist 4
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

  • Job ID: 94749
  • Location: St. Paul
  • Telework Eligible: Yes, up to 50%
  • Full/Part Time: Full-Time
  • Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
  • Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
  • Date Posted: 06/11/2026
  • Closing Date: 07/01/2026
  • 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, occasionally as needed
  • Salary Range: $41.09 - $61.14 / hourly; $85,795 - $127,660 / annually
  • Classified Status: Classified
  • Bargaining Unit/Union: 216 - Middle Management Association/MMA
  • FLSA Status: Exempt - Executive
  • 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 Division of Ecological and Water Resources is seeking to fill one (1) full-time permanent Hydrologist 4 position located in Saint Paul, Minnesota. This position provides leadership and strategic direction for the Water Monitoring and Surveys Unit within the Inventory Monitoring and Analysis Section of the Division of Ecological and Water Resources. The role oversees statewide programs that establish and maintain Minnesota’s lake and river gaging networks, groundwater level monitoring network, the state climatology office, ordinary high water level determinations, and topographic field surveys. By guiding these programs, the position ensures the sustainable use, conservation, and long-term preservation of Minnesota’s water resources through accurate data collection, sound scientific analysis, and informed decision support. The position works closely with partners, customers, and cooperators to coordinate program development and implementation, advancing a system-based approach to water resource management that supports resilient ecosystems and achieves “Healthy Watershed” outcomes.

Responsibilities include:

  • Direct unit employees so that applicable labor agreements and plans are equitably administered, staff roles are clear, effective performance is achieved, and the importance of self-initiative, teamwork, safety, and compliance with DNR policies is understood.
  • Direct and integrate statewide water monitoring and surveying programs by applying advanced hydrologic principles, assessing emerging scientific practices, and exercising seasoned technical judgment to ensure high-quality, science-based data collection. 
  • Oversee programs including climatology, streamflow, lake and groundwater levels, wetland monitoring, ordinary high-water level determinations, and topographic field surveys. Evaluate water resource availability, management needs, and system characteristics to ensure consistent and uniform program administration.
  • Provide monitoring and data collection and technical analysis support for DNR Ecological and Water Resources programs, local watershed management organizations, and other water management programs regarding design and operation of water monitoring and data collection programs to quantify the impacts of various land and water uses and inform water management decision making.
  • Provide leadership in program policy and planning so that important technical issues are identified, clearly articulated, and fully considered in setting division and department resource management direction and policy.

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 an annual telework agreement. 

 

Qualifications

 

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in one of the following disciplines: Civil Engineering, Environmental or Agricultural Engineering, Forest Hydrology, Geography, Geology, Geophysics, Hydrology, Hydrogeology, Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, Soil Science, or Water Resources Management.
  • Four (4) years’ professional experience in applying principles of hydrology and hydraulics, including knowledge of computer modeling; water resource management; electronic databases; water and land management; lakes, wetlands, streams and ground water.
  • Two (2) years of professional level experience that includes supervising or directing staff, managing a project with staff to meet program objectives, job-coaching, or administering training to staff. 
  • Experience in water monitoring networks, including purposes, needs, techniques, equipment, installation, automation, maintenance costs, and data management systems.
  • Knowledge of computer modeling and electronic databases.
  • Knowledge of water resource management.
  • Experience directing complex field investigations involving multidisciplinary teamwork.
  • Knowledge of ground water technical analysis.
  • Experience preparing clear and concise technical reports, articles, and letters.
  • Proficiency in communication, project coordination, collaboration, and problem-solving skills to effectively work with diverse interests and foster relationships to accomplish common conservation objectives.
  • Human relations and coaching skills sufficient to motivate, provide guidance and training, resolve conflict in a positive manner, generate public support, and achieve cooperation with clients, peers, and public staff.
  • Knowledge of laws, rules, programs, and policies governing surface and ground water management; and local, state, and federal water resource management.

Preferred Qualifications

  • An advanced degree in one of the following disciplines: Civil Engineering, Environmental or Agricultural Engineering, Forest Hydrology, Geography, Geology, Geophysics, Hydrology, Hydrogeology, Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, Soil Science, or Water Resources Management.
  • Educational requirements for licensure as Professional Geologist or Professional Engineer in the state of MN is preferred.
  • Experience supervising technical staff
  • Expert knowledge of laws, rules, programs, and policies governing surface and ground water management.
  • Exceptional human relations skills are necessary to effectively deal with a wide range of controversial and non-controversial issues involving watershed districts, local government units, and the public.

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. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H1B status). 

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 Jamison Wendel at jamison.wendel@state.mn.us or 651-259-5661.

If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA.DNR@state.mn.us. To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Joshua Swanson at josh.t.swanson@state.mn.us.

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.