Job Description
Job Details Working Title: Source Water Protection Unit Manager - Health Program Manager Job Class: Health Program Manager Agency: Health Department - Job ID : 90084
- Location : St. Paul
- Telework Eligible : Yes
- Full/Part Time : Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary : Unlimited
- Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers
- Date Posted : 11/12/2025
- Closing Date : 12/02/2025
- 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% of the time.
- Salary Range: $43.38 - $62.41 / hourly; $90,577 - $130,312 / annually
- Classified Status : Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union : 220 - Managerial Plan
- 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 Are you passionate about protecting public health and safeguarding essential water resources? The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is seeking dedicated professionals to make a meaningful difference in our communities. We are currently hiring a Source Water Protection (SWP) Unit Manager within the Environmental Health Division. This position plays a critical role in managing activities within the Source Water Protection Program to ensure safe and sustainable drinking water for Minnesotans, thereby protecting public health.
As the SWP Unit Manager, you will lead the planning, implementation, and coordination of statewide efforts to protect groundwater and surface water sources of drinking water. The program employs a structured planning approach, integrating hydrologic science and computer modeling to guide land and water use planning and management, all with the goal of ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable drinking water for Minnesota communities.
The SWP Program oversees several key responsibilities, including: - Managing the wellhead protection program.
- Oversee and coordinate the availability of financial assistance tools for source water protection, including the SWP Grants program.
- Administering the protection of surface water intakes used for public water supplies.
- Reviewing permits, plans, and other documents related to drinking water protection.
- Conducting topical studies and research to support informed decision-making on drinking water protection.
This is a hybrid telework position that may require in-person meetings as well as in-office work in the downtown St. Paul location. Telework can be performed up to 50% of the time and will be based on the business needs of the unit and is at supervisory discretion.
Qualifications Minimum Qualifications The following minimum qualifications must be clearly demonstrated on the applicant's resume/application to be considered for the position: - Four years of experience in source water protection, environmental health, hydrology, or water resource management, experience must include program planning, implementation, and evaluation.
AND
Demonstrated leadership experience such as: - Ability to plan, organize, and direct technical and administrative activities of staff and partners.
- Project management and coordination experience, including strategic planning and budgeting.
- Managing the preparation and maintenance of reports necessary to carry out the functions of the department.
Demonstrated leadership equivalencies may include experience as a supervisor, lead worker, team lead, or completion of a State of MN leadership program such as Emerging Leaders Institute (ELI) or Senior Leadership Institute (SLI) or Completion of a similar or equivalent leadership development program through another organization. A paid or unpaid position leading a program or chairing a committee, such as an Employee Resource Group (ERG). This experience must also include: 1+ years of identifying issues, goals, and strategic actions 100+ hours per year time commitment
A Bachelor's degree in earth sciences, hydrology, geology, environmental sciences, public health, or closely related field may substitute for (1) year of experience; A master's degree in earth sciences, hydrology, geology, environmental sciences, public health, or closely related field may substitute for (18) months of experience and a Doctorate degree in earth sciences, hydrology, geology, environmental sciences, public health, or closely related field may substitute for (2) years of experience.
Additional minimum qualifications to be assessed during the interview: - Ability to develop and implement strategic plans, including administration of budgets, while managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
- Strong understanding of groundwater and surface water systems, hydrologic science, and drinking water protection principles.
- Experience collaborating with government agencies, community stakeholders, and other partners.
- Ability to develop and review reports and make policy recommendations.
Preferred Qualifications - Advanced degree in earth sciences, hydrology, geology, environmental sciences, public health, or closely related field
- Professional knowledge of principles of hydrology, hydraulics, hydrogeology, geochemistry, and groundwater quality protection.
- Professional knowledge of the principles and practices of land-use planning, groundwater protection, and land-use controls.
- Working knowledge of state water law.
- Working knowledge of the principles and practices of water resources management, groundwater quality protection, and water well construction.
Physical Requirements Ability to lift up to 25 pounds
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.
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 careers@state.mn.us . For additional information about the application process, go to .
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.
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Full time, Temporary work, Part time, Currently hiring, Work at office, Local area, Remote work, Monday to Friday, Shift work, Day shift,