Permitting Specialist – Geothermal Systems and Elevator Borings

Working Title: Permitting Specialist – Geothermal Systems and Elevator Borings
Job Class: Hydrologist 3
Agency: Health Department

• Job ID: 89469
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes, partial
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers - bidders will be accepted until 3/17/2026. 
• Date Posted: 03/11/2026
• Closing Date: 04/09/2026
• Hiring Agency: Minnesota Department of Health (MDH)
• Division/Unit: Environmental Health (EH)  - Well Management Technical Unit 
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift, 8:00am-4:30pm
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes, up to 25%
• Salary Range: $34.69 - $51.45 / hourly; $72,432 - $107,427 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - Minnesota Association of Professional Employees (MAPE) 
• FLSA Status: Exempt - Professional
• 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.

Join a mission-driven team at the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and help protect, maintain, and improve the health of all Minnesotans. We are seeking an experienced and self-motivated Hydrologist 3 to serve as the Permitting Specialist for Geothermal Systems and Elevator Borings within the Well Management Section.

This position plays a critical role in reviewing permit applications, conducting inspections, and providing technical guidance on geothermal and elevator boring systems. If you are passionate about groundwater protection, public health, and sustainable technologies, this is a unique opportunity to make a statewide impact.

The role supports innovation in renewable energy while enforcing Minnesota’s environmental health regulations and contributing to policy and rule development.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Review, approve, and manage permits for geothermal systems and elevator borings to ensure compliance with Minnesota statutes and rules.
• Conduct or coordinate field inspections before, during, and after installation of permitted systems and prepare detailed inspection reports.
• Serve as the technical expert on geothermal systems, providing guidance to internal staff, external partners, and the public.
• Support rulemaking, policy development, and evaluation of new technologies, materials, and methods used in geothermal and well systems.

In accordance with HR/LR Policy #1422 Telework, this position may be eligible for up to 50% telework for applicants who live in Minnesota or in a bordering state within 50 miles of the assigned work location. Candidates residing outside of Minnesota or in a bordering state within 50 miles of the assigned work location at the time of application must be able to relocate to Minnesota within 30 days of their start date. Commuting to the St. Paul office and other MDH office locations across the state may be required. Reimbursement for authorized business travel expenses is provided according to bargaining unit guidelines.

MDH relies heavily on grant funding, in addition to state appropriated dollars. As an agency, we continually monitor funding levels and navigate some degree of uncertainty related to grant cycles and the impact of the grant funding on program priorities.

This position is currently funded and approved to be filled. While the position is funded at this time, future funding is dependent on the continuation of our funding sources. The Minnesota Department of Health works proactively to sustain programs and maintain our workforce, to avoid reductions in force to the very best of our ability. In the event of a loss of funding resulting in a necessary workforce reduction, that process is governed by our collective bargaining agreements and compensation plans.  

Minimum Qualifications

Three (3) years of experience in groundwater resources, geothermal technologies, or well/boring permitting, including work related to hydrology, environmental health, geology, or water resource management.

Additional minimum qualifications to be assessed during the interview process:

• Ability to apply sound judgment and problem-solving skills in complex or ambiguous regulatory situations.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including how you manage stakeholder engagement and respond to public inquiries.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities, including field inspections, permit reviews, and interagency coordination.

*A bachelor’s degree in geology, hydrogeology, hydrology, geophysics, geological engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering or a closely related field will substitute for one (1) year of professional experience.

*A master’s degree in geology, hydrogeology, hydrology, geophysics, geological engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering or a closely related field will substitute for eighteen (18) months of experience.

*A doctoral degree in geology, hydrogeology, hydrology, geophysics, geological engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering or closely related will substitute for two (2) years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in hydrogeology, geology, environmental engineering, or a related field.
• Registered Professional Geologist or Engineer in Minnesota or able to initiate the process for licensure within 12 months of hire
• Direct experience in permitting or inspecting geothermal systems, groundwater thermal exchange systems, or elevator borings.
• Strong working knowledge of Minnesota Statutes Chapter 103I and Rules Chapter 4725, or equivalent groundwater and well regulatory frameworks.
• Experience coordinating with regulatory agencies such as the MPCA, DNR, MDA, or local delegated well programs.
• Proficiency in interpreting technical documents, including site plans, geologic logs, and engineering specifications.
• Participation in rulemaking, policy development, or program implementation in an environmental or public health context.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex technical information clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors during all seasons.
• Able to lift as much as 20 pounds for short time periods.
• Able to frequently lift from ground to waist height, and from waist to shoulder height.
• Able to walk on even/uneven or sloping ground, including snow covered ground, for up to a mile.
• Perform gross and fine motor tasks, sometimes with unprotected fingers and hands, in varying indoor/outdoor temperature extremes.

Additional Requirements

This position requires successful completion of a background check and employment reference check.

This position does not require a driver's license, however it does demand travel which the candidate is responsible for meeting. 

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 careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Alexis Isaacson at alexis.e.isaacson@state.mn.us or 651-539-2266.

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 Alexis Isaacson at alexis.e.isaacson@state.mn.us.

If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation for an interview, you may contact the Department of Health ADA Coordinator at health.hr.ada@state.mn.us.

About Health Department 

Come and work for one of the best public health systems in the nation and you will contribute to our mission to protect, maintain and improve the health of all Minnesotans. We are working hard to achieve our vision for health equity in Minnesota, where all communities are thriving, and all people have what they need to be healthy. Our collaborative, mission-driven work environment is a major factor in promoting a high level of employee health awareness, employee longevity and job satisfaction.

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.