Manager Groundwater Hydrology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

At the DNR, we are committed to the conservation and management of the state's natural resources for outdoor recreation, economic development, and a sustainable quality of life. Apply with us and find your path.

Working Title: Regional Hydrologist 2
Job Class: Hydrologist 2
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

• Job ID: 96108
• Location: Bemidji
• Telework Eligible: Yes, up to 40% after successful completion of probationary period
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 08/18/2026
• Closing Date: 09/08/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
• Division/Unit: Ecological and Water Resources
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes, as needed for field work and meetings
• Salary Range: $30.76 - $45.26 / hourly; $64,226 - $94,502 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees/MAPE

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 Division of Ecological and Water Resources is seeking to fill one (1) permanent full-time Regional Hydrologist 2 position located in Bemidji, Minnesota.This position exists to ensure sustainability of Northwest Minnesota’s water and natural resources through water use regulation and water supply management, technical analysis, project impact assessment, waters of the state protection, and collaborative engagement with citizens, businesses, local governments, and other stakeholders. The position also completes District and Region-wide projects and supports Division-wide initiatives.

Responsibilities include:

• Ensure projects affecting water use appropriation and associated public waters comply with applicable statutes and rules.
• Support enforcement, restoration, and monitoring activities, including Calc Fen protection.
• Provide technical guidance to DNR staff, local governments, and stakeholders to support informed decision-making regarding groundwater use and management.
• Promote and implement sustainable water resource conservation and management programs.

This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete an annual telework agreement.

Transcripts are required for this position. Applicants who meet minimum qualifications will be sent instructions for transcript review after the posting close date.

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geological Engineering, Hydrology, Forest Hydrology, Geography, Geology, Geophysics, Hydrogeology, Natural Resources, Environmental Studies, Soil Science, Water Resources Management, Hydraulics, Environmental Science, Earth Science, or related major.

Transcript requirements:

• Three hydrology qualifying courses in the areas of: Hydrology, Hydraulics, Hydrogeology/Groundwater Hydrology, Water Resources Engineering, Hydrologic Modeling, Watershed Management, Groundwater, Fluid Mechanics, fluvial geomorphology;

OR

• Two hydrology qualifying courses and two courses (or equivalent experience) in: Geology, Geomorphology, Geochemistry, Geography, Limnology, Erosion and Sediment Control, Environmental Engineering, Soils.

Additional minimum qualifications:

• Two (2) years of professional experience in surface water or groundwater hydrology, soil and water resource management, hydrogeology, hydrologic modeling, geochemistry or regulatory work.
• A Master's degree in the appropriate major (see the above education requirements) may substitute for 1 year of experience.
• Experience collecting surface water or groundwater data.
• Experience with technical writing and ability to draft documents that are clear, organized, and grammatically sound.
• Experience working in databases, such as database entry or preparing data for database submittal.
• Technical knowledge of hydrology, hydrogeology, hydraulics, principles and practices of water resource management.
• Technical knowledge of land surveying, groundwater and stream flow measurement procedures , and/or use of hydrologic monitoring equipment.
• Knowledge of hydrologic data collection, compilation and review including database, spreadsheet, and desktop publishing applications to compile, analyze and present hydrologic data.
• Ability to effectively communicate and work as a team member and follow policies and procedures while consistently conducting oneself in a cooperative and courteous manner.
• Ability to perform all duties and responsibilities in a safe manner by following correct work procedure and using required personal protective equipment.
• Ability to work independently in the field during all four seasons in potentially adverse weather and environmental conditions.
• Ability to plan and track work amidst competing demands to ensure work products are completed in a timely manner.

• An advanced degree in any of the disciplines listed above.
• Knowledge of and experience applying water regulations, statutes, rules, and policies.
• Work experience with mapping applications such as ArcGIS Pro.
• Experience with surface water and/or groundwater modeling.
• Knowledge of and experience with well drilling methods.
• Experience with database management.

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:

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 )

• 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