Fisheries Populations Monitoring and Regulations Manager - State Prog Admin Manager Sr

Job Details

Working Title: Fisheries Populations Monitoring and Regulations Manager

Job Class: State Program Administrator Manager Senior

Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

• Job ID: 97092
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes; up to 40%
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 10/03/2026
• Closing Date: 10/23/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
• Division/Unit: Fish and Wildlife
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes
• Salary Range: $44.80 - $64.46 / hourly; $93,542 - $134,592 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 220 - Manager/Unrepresented
• 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.

Job Summary

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Division of Fish and Wildlife, is seeking a Fisheries Populations Monitoring and Regulations Manager to provide statewide leadership for fisheries populations monitoring, regulations, and operations programs. This position directs, plans, develops, administers, and evaluates programs that support sustainable fisheries management and the Division’s strategic priorities.

The position also supports the Fisheries Section Manager with administrative, budget, and legislative responsibilities to ensure effective development and delivery of Department, Division, and Section programs and policies. The position serves on the Fisheries Management Team (FMT) and Fish and Wildlife Division Management Team (DMT).

Responsibilities include:

• Lead the development and implementation of agency and division policies, programs, and priorities as a member of the Division Management Team, Fisheries Management Team, and other statewide teams and committees. Support the implementation of Department and Division missions and strategic priorities.
• Manage Fisheries Section budgets and fiscal activities, and assist the Fisheries Section Manager with biennial budget development, budget initiatives, and performance reporting to ensure fisheries management programs are adequately funded and supported.
• Supervise and develop a qualified staff responsible for advising, monitoring, and supporting field operations, as well as representing fisheries programs to the public and other agencies.
• Direct and participate in fisheries regulatory processes, population management programs, communications, and data management to support sustainable recreational and commercial fisheries and meet population and social objectives.
• Collaborate with managers and supervisors to develop and implement comprehensive work plans, strategic plans, budgeting processes, and policy and budget recommendations. Coordinate long- and short-range planning efforts to effectively prioritize and allocate resources toward critical fisheries management, information, and inventory needs.

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 a telework agreement. This position will require reporting to the primary work location on a regular basis.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in fisheries, aquatic sciences, fisheries management, or a closely related field.
• Three (3) years experience directing fisheries management, conservation programs, or aquatic research and supervising program staff.
• Demonstrated leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills to lead, develop, and engage staff, foster an inclusive work environment, and support employee accessibility, accommodation, training, and development needs.
• Broad knowledge of fisheries biology, ecology, and management, including population dynamics, fish health, aquatic ecosystems, data analysis, and applicable fisheries laws, rules, and policies.
• Knowledge of government budgeting and financial management sufficient to develop budget proposals, manage resources, administer grants, and interpret financial reports.
• Ability to develop and implement statewide fisheries programs, policies, and work plans; oversee large projects; establish priorities; and make informed recommendations and decisions.
• Ability to analyze complex issues, balance conservation with social, economic, and recreational needs, and work effectively with diverse stakeholders and competing interests.
• Demonstrated communication skills to explain complex information, prepare clear reports, conduct meetings, and communicate policies and program direction to employees, policymakers, and the public.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree or higher in fisheries ecology, fisheries biology, fisheries management, or a closely related field.
• Experience developing long-range strategies for fisheries programs.
• Knowledge of ecosystem-based management and sustainable development principles.
• Knowledge of fisheries disease and health issues.
• Experience with fish culture systems and their application to fisheries management.
• Knowledge of the legislative process and government operations.
• Experience with strategic and operational planning, including developing work plans, evaluating recommendations, and communicating proposals and reports to staff, peers, and leadership.

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

Application Details

How to Apply

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.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Shannon Fisher at [email protected] or 651-259-5206.

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 Chelsie Fisher at [email protected].

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 [email protected] and let us know the support you need.