Working Title: Parks & Trails Associate -Northwest Region
Job Class: Parks & Trails Associate
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources
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Job ID: 91158
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Location: Minnesota Northwest Area
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Telework Eligible: No
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Regular/Temporary: Seasonal
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Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
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Date Posted: 01/12/2026
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Closing Date: 09/30/2026
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Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
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Division/Unit: DNR Parks & Trails Region 1
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Work Shift/Work Hours: Varies
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Days of Work: Varies
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Travel Required: No
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Salary Range: $20.51 - $26.16 / hourly
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Classified Status: Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: *203 - Service/ AFSCME and 218 - Insufficient Work Time
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Work Area: Various locations in Northwest Region
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FLSA: Non-exempt
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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 Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Division of Parks and Trails vision is to create unforgettable park, trail, and water recreation experiences that inspire people to pass along the love for the outdoors to current and future generations.
This is a continuous posting that will be used to fill multiple part-time and full-time seasonal vacancies throughout the Northwest Region of Minnesota. To find which State Park and Trail locations you may be interested in, search our parkfinder map. The Northwest Region generally includes locations north of Benson/ Brainerd and west of Walker, MN. Interested applicants should select ALL locations they would like to be considered for. Applicants will be contacted when an opening in one of their selected locations becomes available.
The DNR is currently seeking multiple Parks and Trails Associates. The typical anticipated season dates are from April through October; however, the actual season dates may start later or end earlier to meet contractual obligations or agency needs. Shifts will vary depending on location and will be discussed as part of the interview process. Typical work schedules include working weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays.
Parks and Trails Associates duties vary by location: working in a ranger station or working in a ranger station and performing night security. In addition to office responsibilities, this position will also include outdoor tasks. An overview of responsibilities based on location are listed below.
Parks and Trails Associate; these job duties can include registering campers, selling merchandise, providing information to the public, and cleaning buildings, fixtures, and bathroom facilities. Typical work schedules include working weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays.
Parks and Trails Associate/Night Security; these job duties can include registering campers, selling merchandise, providing information to the public, and cleaning buildings, fixtures, and bathroom facilities. You will also perform security so that parks and trails visitors and state park and trail property and resources are protected from unsafe conditions, illegal acts, or other dangerous or damaging situations. Typical work schedules include working weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays.
Itasca State Park has a limited number of housing opportunities available. Inquire directly to the park for more information at 218-699-7202.
Additional responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
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Sell park vehicle permits, merchandise items and consumables, register campers, rent buildings, and collect fees so that visitors are charged the current rate for all goods and services. Act as a representative of the DNR, Division of Parks and Trails.
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Provide information to the public, give verbal directions and hand out information as requested, so that all visitors are made aware of rules, facilities, and activities available in the park and surrounding area in a way that a positive image of Minnesota State Parks is generated.
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Provide communication with park personnel and keep supervisors informed so that adequate control is maintained over public activities throughout the park.
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Clean buildings, grounds, and facilities as directed, to request and select proper cleaning equipment and supplies, and to maintain cleanliness.
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Organize reservations, assist in compiling weekly income report, document visitor use and provide miscellaneous clerical support so that effective visitor service, attendance and fiscal accountability are maintained.
Applicants to this posting will be considered after the seven (7) day internal bidding process has completed. DNR employees who would like their application considered via the bidding process must submit their application to the separate bid-only vacancy postings accessible through Self-Service. DNR employees who are not eligible bidders should apply to this vacancy.
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Ability to manage work tasks effectively and work independently with limited supervision while prioritizing customer service and safety.
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Teamwork skills sufficient to help colleagues complete tasks efficiently and safely.
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Problem solving skills sufficient to handle uncertain situations related to customer service.
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Skill sufficient to welcome a diverse user base to Minnesota State Parks and Trails Units.
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Ability to operate point of sale systems and computers to accurately count and collect fees.
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Skill in customer service sufficient to interpret and explain program information to customers, clients, and coworkers, such as policy, procedures, eligibility requirements, application details, and payment methods in a patient and unbiased manner.
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Skill in math sufficient to make change, apply simple formulas, calculate account balances and amounts owed.
Experience or training in a work or educational setting in any of the following:
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Software such as Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
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Retail sales and/ or customer service.
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Database and records management sufficient to accurately file and categorize documents
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First Aid and CPR training or certification.
- 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.
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:
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Conflict of Interest Review
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Criminal History Check
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Education Verification
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Employment Reference / Records Check
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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 Christa Maxwell at [email protected] or 218-770-2817.
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 Becky McMillen at [email protected].
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
- A sense of purpose in their work
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Connection with their coworkers and communities
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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
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Diabetes care
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Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
- 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
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Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
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Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
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Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
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Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
- Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
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Training, classes, and professional development
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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)
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A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
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Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
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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.
