The DNR is currently seeking a NR Program Coordinator (Deer Coordinator) to assist the Big Game Program Supervisor in the administration and implementation of a statewide program focused on deer, elk, and moose management, policy, and stakeholder engagement. This position will assist in the collection and dissemination of data; the development of regulations, legislative proposals, and strategic plans; provide consultation and coordination to land and wildlife managers, tribal biologists, researchers, and enforcement officers; serve as a liaison with other agencies and groups; and provide information and education to the public. The Deer Coordinator may assist with development of big game program related content for the public and serve as a spokesperson and subject matter expert for the Big Game Program.

Responsibilities include: 

• Assist the Big Game Program Supervisor in administration of big game seasons and regulatory process so that seasons are supported by enforceable rules and so that populations are sustained at appropriate levels.  Assist Big Game Program Supervisor in harvest reporting, big game related webpage content, and regulations booklet development.
• Assist with implementation of the Minnesota White-tailed Deer Management Plan, the 2016 Office of Legislative Auditors (OLA) evaluation of Minnesota deer population management, and the 2019 Chronic Wasting Disease Management Plan. 
• Assist with big game stakeholder input needs, including the Deer Advisory Committee, and serve as big game program subject matter expert and spokesperson for the DNR on big game program related issues.

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. 

The selected candidate will have the option to report to one of the following locations: Saint Paul, Bemidji, Grand Rapids, Rochester, or New Ulm, MN. The specific location will be agreed upon at time of selection.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in wildlife science, natural resources, conservation biology, ecology, biology, or closely related field.
• Three (3) years of professional experience in assessing biological or human dimensions data to coordinate and/or develop recommendations for the management of wildlife populations.
• Human relations skills sufficient to coordinate and achieve cooperation with the public, peers, and staff.
• Skills to direct colleagues and teams; plan, manage, and implement projects and programs with tight deadlines.
• Skills to effectively communicate with others, using appropriate style as necessary to further program objectives when not all staff or stakeholders are supportive.
• Oral and written communication skills to effectively communicate complex information in varied settings to a wide variety of audiences including the public, colleagues, and superiors.
• Ability to work with others to achieve a common objective, including conflict resolution skills. 
• Database management skills sufficient to manipulate, analyze, and develop databases for biological and human dimensions data related to the big game program.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in wildlife science, natural resources, conservation biology, ecology, biology, public health, or closely related field.
• Experience in state, federal, or tribal wildlife agency collecting and assessing biological and human dimensions data to develop management and/or regulatory recommendations for cervid populations.
• Experience with high profile and controversial big game management issues.
• Extensive knowledge of white-tailed deer, elk, and moose population biology, natural history, and management issues in North America.
• Experience coordinating projects with state agency or other organizational staff.
• Experience with media interviews, public and staff presentations, and communicating with public about controversial topics.