Forest Policy Administrator

Job Summary
The Minnesota Forestry Resources Council is seeking a Forest Policy Administrator located at its office on the University of Minnesota’s St. Paul campus. This is a state government position within the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

The purpose of the MFRC Forest Policy Administrator position is to provide professional policy analysis and policy related information services to the Minnesota Forest Resources Council (MFRC). This position works closely with fellow MFRC staff members and the MFRC’s appointed stakeholder representatives to administer the development and implementation of forest policy initiatives that support sustainable management, use, and protection of Minnesota’s forest resources while balancing the long-term economic, ecological, and social needs and limits of forest resources.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Conduct analysis and reporting on sustainable forest resources topics
• Collaborate and conduct outreach on forest policy issues and topics
• Serve as staff lead for the MFRC Policy Committee and policy liaison to MFRC stakeholder representatives
• Build strong trust-based relationships with executive branch leaders, legislators, and stakeholders
• Assist and occasionally lead information and administrative functions of the MFRC

This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis. Position requires reporting to the primary work location on a regular basis.

Minimum Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in forestry, public policy, agricultural sciences, natural resources, environmental or ecological studies, political science, or a closely related field.
• 3 years of professional experience with duties such as research, analysis, communication, reporting, and policy engagement in forestry, natural resources or environmental management.
• A master’s degree in any of the above or closely related fields may substitute a year and six months of experience. A PhD in any of the above or closely related fields may substitute two years of experience.
• Experience conducting and synthesizing analyses on a range of forest, natural resources, or environmental topics, policies, regulations, legislation, or issues.
• Experience developing formal reports and diverse written materials.
• Ability to present information clearly to internal and external audiences including legislators and the public.
• Demonstrated ability to manage a variety of projects under tight deadlines.
• Interpersonal skills sufficient to work with diverse audiences.
• Ability to review, interpret, and present information to recommend appropriate communication strategies.
• Competency in word processing, presentation, and spreadsheet software such as Word, PowerPoint and Excel, including utilizing technologies in virtual meetings.

Preferred Qualifications

• A master’s degree or PhD degree in a forestry or natural resources related field, including an emphasis on policy analysis.
• Experience in public policy related to forestry.