Associate Inspector Jobs in Aitkin, MN (NOW HIRING)

Working Title: Construction Stormwater Inspector
Job Class: Environmental Specialist 2
Agency: Pollution Control Agency

• Job ID: 95097
• Location: Brainerd
• Telework Eligible: Yes
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 07/09/2026
• Closing Date: 07/22/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Pollution Control Agency / Pollution Control-MAPE
• Division/Unit: Municipal Division / Construction Stormwater Compliance & Enforcement Unit
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes - Up to 50% of the time
• Salary Range: $28.75 - $42.16 / hourly; $60,030 - $88,030 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
• FLSA Status: Nonexempt
• 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
As a Construction Stormwater Inspector in the Municipal Division at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), the position will assist in the operation of the federal/state National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System/State Disposal System (NPDES/SDS) Construction Stormwater Permit Program. This position ensures compliance with the Construction Stormwater permit and rules for the purpose of protecting and improving Minnesota’s water quality and natural resources.

The primary responsibility of this position is conducting construction site inspections and enforcement of Minnesota water quality statute, rules and NPDES/SDS permit conditions as well the lead inspector for compliant response in the northern half of Minnesota. Compliance determinations are determined based on field and desk evaluations of construction projects for appropriate sediment and erosion control practices and water quality impacts. Complaints will be evaluated at the office and followed up on the needed as the program SOP indicates. The incumbent also provides education on stormwater requirements; provides technical assistance and cooperates with other state and local units of government doing similar work.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:

• Two years of professional environmental protection experience
• -OR-
• A Bachelor's degree in environmental protection or related science field AND one year of professional environmental protection experience.
• Ability to manage multiple projects.
• Ability to gain understanding of the environmental regulatory process and state and federal rules.
• Basic computer skill with proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Good communication and human relations skills to interact effectively with stakeholders and team members.
• Valid Class D Driver's License.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will not sponsor applicants for work visas including F-1 STEM OPT extensions. 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. Individuals must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledge of water resources and the relationships between hydrology, engineering, land use, and water quality management.
Experience in performing compliance inspections and elevated enforcement actions.
Knowledge of the overall state and federal environmental regulatory framework related to environmental investigations and the Clean Water Act.
Work effectively with people representing a broad spectrum or positions in business, government, and environmental groups.
Effectively represent the MPCA before a variety of groups relative to social, economic, and environmental issues.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with representatives of government and private organizations along with the ability to resolve controversial or contentious situations.
Effective public presentation skills
Ability to effectively communicate technical concepts in person and in writing.

Physical Requirements
The position may be requested to conduct inspections anywhere in the state and stay overnight at times. Some infrequent lifting of sampling equipment and working out in the field in adverse weather conditions. Ability to conduct inspections that involve climbing and/or stepping over obstacles.
Additional Requirements:

A driver’s license is an essential function of this position. This requires possession of an unrestricted Class D Driver’s License. The job offer is contingent on confirmation of a valid driver’s license AND a satisfactory driver’s license record check. Requires a Class D driver's license: a single unit vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of less than 26,000 pounds. This is a basic driver's license. Operators may also tow vehicles/trailers as long as the gross combination does not exceed 26,000 pounds.
It is the policy of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency 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 where applicable

Application Details
How to Apply
Select “Apply Now” button.. 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.

Our mission is to protect and improve the environment and human health. We work with many partners (citizens, communities, and businesses, all levels of government, environmental groups and educators) to prevent pollution, conserve resources, and to help ensure polluting does not have disproportionate impact on any groups of people. We emphasize work-life balance with flex schedules, compressed schedules, and options to telework for some positions.

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
• Tuition reimbursement 
• 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 careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.