Working Title: Mineland Reclamation Specialist Senior
Job Class: Mineland Reclamation Spec Sr
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources
-
Job ID: 95346
-
Location: Hibbing
-
Telework Eligible: Yes
-
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
-
Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
-
Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
-
Date Posted: 07/10/2026
-
Closing Date: 07/30/2026
-
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
-
Division/Unit: Lands and Minerals
-
Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
-
Days of Work: Monday - Friday
-
Travel Required: Yes
-
Salary Range: $28.75 - $42.16 / hourly; $60,030 - $88,030 / annually
-
Classified Status: Classified
-
Bargaining Unit: 214- MN Association of Professional Employees/MAPE
-
FLSA Status: Exempt- Professional
-
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes
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.
The DNR is currently seeking (1) Mineland Reclamation Specialist Senior in Hibbing, MN. This position exists to inspect, monitor, evaluate, and provide direction to the state's mining industry in complying with the state's rules for mineland reclamation. Particular attention is directed at reviewing and administering Permits to Mine, ensuring that they are consistent with the statues and rules relating to mineland reclamation.
Responsibilities include:
-
Review and evaluate applications for Permits to Mine, Permit to Mine Amendments, Assignments, and Annual Reports and Operating Plans so that it is determined that they are consistent with the rules relating to mineland reclamation.
-
Conduct field inspections to determine if mining companies are in compliance with the conditions of their Permit to Mine.
-
Maintain a geographic information system (GIS) for monitoring, documenting, and administering the Mineland Reclamation Program.
-
Perform administrative and liaison duties as requested so that the Mineland Reclamation Program works efficiently with other divisional programs.
- Review and evaluate environmental review documents to ensure that components related to mineland reclamation and closure are adequately addressed.
-
Participate in special projects, including Mineland Vision Partnership, reclamation practice improvements, and collaboration in the department of reclamation rules, revisions, and amendments so they accurately reflect state-of-the-art knowledge and principles of reclamation.
This position has a flexible work arrangement and is eligible for telework on a part-time basis which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete an annual telework agreement. This position will require reporting to the primary work location on a regular basis and will also be in the field regularly meeting with mining company representatives and inspecting mineland reclamation work.
Bachelor's degree in biological sciences, hydrology, geology, reclamation, soil sciences, environmental science or studies, environmental engineering, or related field.
AND;
-
Communication skills sufficient to correspond accurately and professionally and maintain good relations within and outside the DNR, including with other regulatory agencies and the mining industry.
-
Organizational skills sufficient in managing files and databases necessary to administer the Mineland Reclamation Program records.
-
Database management and GIS skills sufficient to maintain and update geodatabase of reclamation and mining.
-
Word processing and computer skills sufficient to prepare correspondence, draft and write permits, prepare DNR comments on permit applications, prepare post-inspection reports, and prepare decision documents.
-
Experience in mineland reclamation, such as field monitoring and inspection, environmental review, and permitting.
-
Master’s degree or PhD in a related field.
-
Experience with ArcMap/GIS and databases sufficient to produce maps for field use, structure files, and maintain and update databases.
-
Knowledge of Minnesota's mineland reclamation regulations and permitting, specifically Minnesota Rules Chapters 6130, 6131, or 6132.
-
Familiarity with mining and knowledge of Minnesota's mining industry and history, particularly Minnesota’s taconite operations, operational best practices, and mine and process engineering principles.
-
Experience with Minnesota’s environmental review process and the connection with permitting.
-
MSHA 24 hour New Miner Training.
-
Successful participation of the State of Minnesota Star of the North Fellowship program.
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
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 [email protected]. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.
If you have questions about this position, contact Kathryn Larson at [email protected] or 218-231-8457.
If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at [email protected]. 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 Sarah Neisen at [email protected].
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
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.
- 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
-
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)
-
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 [email protected] and let us know the support you need.
