SWP Hydrologist: Watershed & Implementation Specialist -Hydrologist 2

Working Title: SWP Hydrologist: Watershed & Implementation Specialist 
Job Class: Hydrologist 2
Agency: Health Department

• Job ID: 92916
• Location: St. Cloud or St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes, hybrid
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers - eligible bidders will be considered until 4/6/26.
• Date Posted: 03/31/2026
• Closing Date: 04/13/2026
• Hiring Agency: Minnesota Department of Health (MDH)
• Division/Unit: Environmental Health (EH) - Source Water Protection (SWP)
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift, 8:00am-4:30pm
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: Yes, up to 25%
• Salary Range: $30.23 - $44.48 / hourly; $63,120 - $92,874 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees (MAPE)
• FLSA Status: Nonexempt
• 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 contribute to protecting, maintaining, and improving the health of all Minnesotans. As a Hydrologist 2 supporting statewide Source Water Protection (SWP) and Groundwater Restoration and Protection Strategies (GRAPS) efforts by evaluating hydrogeologic data and watershed-based plans to strengthen groundwater and drinking water protection. The role translates scientific data into actionable recommendations that guide local and state planning, improve implementation strategies, and support long-term groundwater sustainability. The position works collaboratively with internal staff and interagency partners to enhance data, tools, and approaches used to protect Minnesota’s water resources.

Primary Responsibilities: 

• Conduct independent technical reviews of watershed and groundwater management plans to ensure accuracy, completeness, and alignment with groundwater protection goals.
• Analyze hydrogeologic and water quality data to identify gaps, assess risks, and develop recommendations that strengthen protection and implementation efforts.
• Collaborate with state, federal, and local partners to improve groundwater data, monitoring strategies, and resource management approaches.
• Support the development and application of GIS tools, datasets, and analytical methods to enhance decision-making and track progress of protection activities.
• Communicate technical information through presentations, maps, and written materials to support planning, coordination, and stakeholder engagement.

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. The telework policy may exempt employees who live more than 50 miles from their primary work location from the 50% in-office requirement, depending on job requirements, helping the State of Minnesota access top talent across the state.

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

Two (2) years of experience analyzing groundwater, hydrogeologic, or water quality data to support watershed planning, groundwater protection, or natural resource management.

A master’s degree in geology, hydrogeology, hydrology, environmental science, or a closely related field may be substituted for 18 months of experience; a bachelor’s degree in one of these fields may be substituted for 12 months of experience; an associate’s degree may be substituted for 6 months of experience.

Additional minimum qualifications to be assessed during interview: 

• Demonstrated ability to independently analyze hydrogeologic and water quality data and develop actionable recommendations for groundwater protection and watershed management.
• Experience working with State and local government resource partners with the ability to effectively communicate technical information both verbally and in writing.
• Proficiency using GIS and other data tools to organize, analyze, visualize, and communicate groundwater and watershed information for planning and decision-making.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with State and local resource partners on comprehensive watershed management planning and implementation. 
• Advanced degree in geology, hydrogeology, hydrology, environmental science, or a closely related field. 
• Experience interpreting geologic mapping, subsurface data, and water quality information to support groundwater protection and watershed planning.
• Ability and desire to assist local practitioners identify solutions and implement groundwater and drinking water projection projects. 
• Knowledge of State groundwater systems, well drilling and sealing principles, and conservation practices to protect groundwater and local drinking water supplies.
• Demonstrated proficiency with GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS Pro, QGIS) and familiarity with web-based GIS platforms or scripting.

Physical Requirements

Flexibility to work extended hours and travel statewide to support meetings, fieldwork, and stakeholder engagement activities.

Ability to work in field conditions, including visits to varied watershed and groundwater sites across the state.

Additional Requirements

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

This position does not require a driver’s license but demands some travel that 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 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.