Planning Director

The Division of Ecological Water Resources has an exciting opportunity for a skilled project manager. This position provides direction, coordination, and management of environmental impact statements (EIS) and the preparation of other environmental review documents to fulfill the responsibilities of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) under the Minnesota Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) and related activities. The person in this position will plan, design, and oversee the work of advanced professional staff conducting environmental review. Duties include:

• Design and execute environmental review of projects (EIS’s and EAW’s) for which the DNR is the responsible governmental unit.


• Complete environmental review of projects in compliance with all applicable statues, rules, and requirements including the Minnesota Environmental Policy Act.


• Organize and manage EIS budgetary and financial matters to ensure that costs are appropriate and in line with estimates.


• Contract with consultants as necessary in accordance with statewide standards.


• Serve as project leader to provide direction and review and approve work plans and communications of advanced-level professional staff.


• Oversee and prepare press releases, formal and informal communications, and assemble a complete formal record for all assigned projects.


• Prepare and present complex data on sensitive topics of high public interest for large audiences under tight timeframes.

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 an infrequent basis for meetings.