Nature Store Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Telework Eligible: No

• Education Verification
• License / Certification Verification

Working Title: Retail Operations Supervisor Job Class: Retail Operations Supervisor Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

• Job ID: 96469
• Location: Gooseberry Falls State Park
• Telework Eligible: No
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 08/21/2026
• Closing Date: 09/10/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
• Division/Unit: Parks and Trails Region 2
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
• Days of Work: Typically Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes - Up to 25% of the time
• Salary Range: $29.84 - $43.36 / hourly; $62,305 - $90,535 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 216 - Middle Management Association/MMA
• FLSA Status: Exempt - Executive
• 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.

The Department of Natural Resources is seeking to fill one (1) permanent, full‑time Retail Operations Supervisor at Gooseberry Falls State Park. Hours of work are typically 8:00am - 4:30pm, and days of work are typically Monday through Friday, however, both hours and days may vary and may include weekends and holidays, depending on the needs of the park.

This position exists to develop, implement, monitor, and maintain a merchandise program (including quality clothing, food, gift, and souvenir items) for the Gooseberry Falls State Park Nature Store, and to assist the statewide merchandise program and other state park nature stores, as requested. The program is designed to promote Minnesota State Parks, provide merchandise of an educational nature to the public, and generate revenue to be used to fund resource management and interpretive projects for the state park.

Job Responsibilities Include, But Are Not Limited To

• Recruit, interview, hire, train, supervise, delegate, evaluate, discipline and reward employees so that the Nature Store and Travel Information Center at Gooseberry Falls State Park in an efficient, productive and profitable operation.
• Purchase merchandise for resale for Gooseberry Falls State Park. This merchandise focuses on the diverse natural and cultural resource themes of Minnesota State Parks. Products will support the goals of the retail program by generating profit to support resource management and interpretive programs, promote Minnesota State Parks and provide convenience items to park visitors. As requested, consult with and purchase for other locations in the statewide Nature Store program.
• Direct and implement visual merchandise displays at Gooseberry Falls State Park to best present products to the park visitor. As requested, assist with the visual merchandising for new stores, resets, and remodels at other state parks.
• Determine and monitor the budget for the Gooseberry Falls State Park merchandise program and provide input on the statewide merchandise budget as requested – to include staffing levels, fixtures and product for resale – expenses from the WCA for nature store inventory, consignment operations, and consumables (firewood, ice, and pop) so that park visitors’ expectations are met, and profit is generated.
• Direct the inventory of the nature store merchandise program using proper receiving and distribution procedures utilizing current inventory control software.
• Administer merchandise and vehicle permit sales in the Nature Store during shoulder season or when short-staffed. Perform public contact and other duties as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• Three (3) years of experience and knowledge of retail setting including one year of professional experience (including lead work responsibilities) that may include experience in retail management, product development and selection, market trends and consumer preferences, business management, visual merchandising, writing product specifications, pricing merchandise, and’ or managing inventory sufficient to operate a successful and profitable business.
• While not required, an Associates or advanced degree in Retail Management Operations, Business Management, Business Administration, Marketing, Visual Merchandising and Communications or closely related field maybe substituted as follows for the experience above. An associate’s degree can substitute for 6 months, and 1 year for a bachelor’s or advanced degree.

AND

• Leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills to direct, develop, motivate, and engage staff.
• Knowledge of budget policies, procedures, and regulations sufficient to manage and administer budgets and to deliver products in a cost-effective manner.
• Communication skills sufficient to communicate work requirements to individuals and groups.
• Writing skills sufficient to communicate work plans, proposals and reports.
• Customer service and communication skills sufficient to conduct visitor services and public relations activities to ensure a positive visitor experience.
• Organizational and administrative skills sufficient to organize diverse elements of work and perform tasks within administrative requirements.
• Word processing skills sufficient to draft letters, memos, correspondence, etc.
• Spreadsheet skills sufficient to create, edit and modify spreadsheets.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Retail Management Operations, Business Management, Business Administration, Marketing, Visual Merchandising and Communication or another closely related field.
• Experience supervising employees in a union environment.
• Knowledge of latest innovations in retail store design, retail displays, and merchandising for maximum visual and sales impact.
• Creative and artistic ability to conceptualize and design products.
• Knowledge of state purchasing procedures.
• Knowledge and understanding of natural, cultural, and recreational resources sufficient to develop park specific merchandise.
• Knowledge of legal boundaries on production of artwork such as copyright and trademark issues.
• Knowledge of Recreation Dynamics or other point of sale system.
• Money management skills to be able to assist with daily cash handling and banking.
• Conflict management and de‑escalation skills.
• First Aid/CPR/AED Certified

Additional Requirements

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

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Nathan Springer at nathan.springer@state.mn.us or 218-595-7106.

If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA.DNR@state.mn.us. 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 Hotop at becky.hotop@state.mn.us.

Working together to improve the state we love.

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

Benefits

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.

Your Benefits May Include

• 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

Support To Help You Reach Your Career Goals

• 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)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) For Work/life Support

• 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.