Laborer- Trades and Equipment

The DNR is seeking to fill a full-time, seasonal Laborer- Trades and Equipment position with typical season dates from mid-March through mid-November each year. The work schedule is 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Thursday. Minnesota State Parks and Trails is seeking a self-motivated individual that is adaptable, and dedicated to support the Fergus Falls Area Parks and Trails office which covers an eight-county area. This position exists to assist the Area Supervisor and area staff in managing and directing the operations of Parks and Trails facilities and to perform the daily activities involved with facility development and maintenance.

Responsibilities include:

• Application of technical knowledge in the development and maintenance of sites and facilities, so that safe, high-quality facilities are provided for public use.
• Performance of routine inspections and repairs on equipment to maintain safe operating condition.
• Operate or direct the use of heavy equipment to construct and service recreation facilities, so that safe and high-quality facilities are provided for public use.
• Record and communicate accurate information on work performed so that Parks and trails facilities are safe, and the maintenance and operation needs are completed efficiently.
• Represent Parks and Trails and DNR by providing information to the public.
• Complete safety and other job-related training and ensure accountability for safe performance of tasks according to established safety procedures.

Qualifications

• Position requires a Class A license, passing a pre-employment drug screen and participation in the DNR ongoing random screening program. Otherwise qualified applicants who do not have a valid Class A will be allowed up to 6 months to acquire one, as a condition of employment. 
• Knowledge of methods, materials, tools and equipment used in trades and general construction.
• Ability to safely operate and maintain medium & heavy motorized equipment, e.g., dump trucks, trailers, tractors with loader, watercraft, skid steers, backhoes, plus power and hand tools, including chainsaws, air compressors, carpentry tools, and other equipment/tools as assigned to carry out work plans and projects pertaining to Division of Parks and Trails programs and activities.
• Position requires certifications or the ability to acquire them within 6 months, as a condition of employment, in the following areas: First-Aid, Chainsaw, Watercraft Operator, ATV, Tractor, Backhoe, Dump-Truck, and Skid-Steer.
• Ability to service and make minor repairs to machinery, equipment and buildings.
• Ability to understand and follow verbal directions sufficient to interpret, communicate and carry out verbal assignments, safely and efficiently.
• Ability to work with limited supervision.
• Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing to staff/visitors.
• Ability to solve problems, make decisions, work safely and effectively with others.

Preferred Qualifications

• Current possession of a class A license.
• Current DNR certification AND experience in tractor, backhoe, skid steer, chainsaw, large trucks, trailers, pickups, ATV and riding mowers use.
• Knowledge and experience with equipment, materials and methods used to operate, develop and maintain water recreation and trail facilities such as installing water access ramps, building roads, installing culverts, building trails and repairing asphalt.
• 2 years of experience in equipment operation and maintenance, site design and construction, and landscape/vegetation management or related skilled trades.
• Technical school certificates, licensure or degrees in one or more of the following: carpentry, construction, electrical repair, plumbing, masonry or small engine repair/automotive.
• Experience providing lead work direction, assigning tasks and ensuring completion.
• Considerable knowledge of the goals, objectives, policies and procedures for Parks & Trails programs.
• Working knowledge of civil engineering, landscape architecture and planning process, as applicable to recreation facility design and construction.
• Some knowledge of natural resource management fields such as forestry, wildlife management and hydrology.
• Knowledge of organizations, groups and interests involved in Parks & Trails activities.
• First aid/CPR certification.