Working Title: Interpretive Naturalist 1
Job Class: Interpretive Naturalist 1
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources
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Job ID: 91200
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Location: _Forestville/Mystery Cave Stat
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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: 01/06/2026
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Closing Date: 09/30/2026
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Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
- Division/Unit: DNR Parks & Trails Region 3
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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: $23.98 - $34.69 / hourly
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Classified Status: Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MAPE / 218 Insufficient Work Time
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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.
This announcement will be used to fill multiple positions throughout the 2026 operating season at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park near Preston, MN.
The DNR is seeking to fill multiple seasonal Interpretive Naturalist positions at Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park near Preston, MN. The anticipated work schedule will generally be days that include weekends and holidays and some evenings; the anticipated season dates are from May through Labor Day (September) each calendar year; however, the actual season dates may start later or end earlier to meet contractual obligations or agency needs. This will be discussed as part of the interview process.
This position will develop, present, and publicize interpretive programs in order to educate the public about the natural, cultural and outdoor recreation aspects of Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park. Much of this work involves presenting interpretive tours in Mystery Cave. Other duties include researching material for interpretive use, developing non-personal interpretive materials, staffing the information desk and visitor center, record keeping, opening/closing visitor center and cave, record keeping, operating the ticket and gift store counter.
Responsibilities include:
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Develop and present interpretive activities by developing and conducting interpretive tours, operate lighting system on the cave tour routes, present safety and conservation messages to cave tour visitors, and present interpretive talks and/or activities above ground.
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Perform information and sales duties by meeting and greeting the public at assigned information/ticket sales area, sell tickets and gift store items; perform remittance, conduct inventory of gift store merchandise, and maintain shelves, counters, and walls in public view.
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Perform administrative functions by responding to inquiries from the public orally and in writing, attend and participate in staff meetings, record, and file visitor attendance, and create interpretive signs, forms, and spreadsheets.
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Perform operational duties by enabling safe, smooth, and efficient cave operations to be carried out.
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Bachelor's degree in one of the physical sciences such as ecology, zoology, botany, geology, geography, OR a cultural resource focused degree such as American history, anthropology, archeology, OR parks and recreation management OR environmental education and interpretation OR equivalent.
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Three months relevant public speaking experience in a formal or informal setting. Relevant speaking experience may include professional, volunteer, or internship work.
Additional requirements include:
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Advanced oral communication skills sufficient to present information on environmental and cultural values, facts, and theories in a clear and understandable manner to diverse individuals and groups.
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Writing skills sufficient to develop materials, compile reports and write interesting and educational news releases.
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Advanced human relations skills.
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Ability/willingness to work as part of a team with changing assignments.
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Understanding of interpretive techniques including the ability to assess audiences and the effectiveness of interpretive media.
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Skills in historical, cultural, and natural resource research and literature search techniques.
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Computer skills, i.e., MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
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Prior experience conducting interpretive programs in Minnesota State Parks.
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Prior work experience in Forestville Mystery Cave State Park.
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Six months professional experience in public speaking, interpersonal communication, interpretation, or education.
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Understanding of Minnesota's natural and cultural history and resource management.
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Knowledge sufficient to identify plants and animals.
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Knowledge of park resources.
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Background in natural/cultural resource interpretation.
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Understanding of basic interpretive exhibit and display standards and techniques.
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Understanding of educational curriculum and materials sufficient to assess their effectiveness.
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Illustration/photography/visual presentation skills.
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Well-developed problem-solving skills.
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Organizational skills sufficient to develop, schedule and implement summer programs.
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Ability to manage visitors and deal with emergency response situations.
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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 Dawn Ryan at [email protected] or 507-808-8011.
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 Ashley Luecken 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.
