Job Details
Director of Operations - Soil & Water Division
2026-03-18 Ramsey County (MN) all cities,AK
Description:
(The work assigned to a position in this classification may not include all possible tasks in this description and does not limit the assignment of any additional tasks in this classification. Regular attendance according to the position's management approved work schedule is required.)
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18.
Minimum Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's Degree in Parks and Recreation, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field.
Experience: Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in the administration of parks and recreation facilities, services and programs, including two (2) years in a supervisory/management capacity.
Substitution: Equivalent combination of education and experience.
Certifications/Licensure: Valid class D driver's license.
Exam/Screening Process Information
The examination process will consist of the following section with each section weighted as indicated:
Eligible List: The names of all applicants who filed a properly completed application and passed the examination/screening process shall be placed on the eligible list for an employment opportunity as a Director of Operations - Soil & Water Division. This list will be certified to the appointing authority which may use this list to conduct interviews to fill a vacancy. Candidates will remain on the list for 30 days or until hired, whichever occurs first. A notice will be sent to applicants at the time the eligible list is posted.
Veteran's Preference: This is a classified position requiring an open, competitive selection process. Veteran's Preference points will be applied after a candidate passes the examination process. Applicants who are eligible for veteran's preference should update their veteran's DD214, and other supporting documents, and submit them as an attachment at the time of application.
Criminal Background Checks: All employment offers are conditioned upon the applicant passing a criminal background check. Convictions are not an automatic bar to employment. Each case is considered on its individual merits and the type of work sought. However, making false statements or withholding information will cause you to be barred from employment, or removed from employment.
E-Verify Participation: Ramsey County participates in the federal E-Verify program. This means that Ramsey County will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. If the Government cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, Ramsey County is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact DHS and/or the SSA before taking adverse action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers may not use E-Verify to pre-screen job applicants and may not limit or influence the choice of documents you present for use on the Form I-9.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Ramsey County provides equal access to employment, programs, and services without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, sex (except when sex is a Bona Fide Occupational Qualification), disability, familial or marital status, sexual orientation or gender identity, public assistance status, place of residence, political affiliation, or national origin.
Ramsey County is deeply committed to advancing racial equity and promoting diversity and inclusion within all areas of its workforce. The county strives being equitable, inclusive, transparent, respectful, and impactful in how we serve and engage with residents, as well as Ramsey County employees. Advancing racial equity ensures all people who need access to opportunities and services we provide, will receive them. Racial equity is achieved when race can no longer be used to predict life outcomes, and outcomes for all are improved.
To print a paper application for this posting click You will need to print this posting and answer the supplemental questions associated with this exam and submit them with your completed paper application.
For further information regarding this posting, please contact:
Ramsey County provides a wide range of employee benefits to support health, well-being, and work/life balance. Benefits eligibility can vary depending on union status/contract language. A summary of benefits is provided below. Detailed information is available for review at
For information about Ramsey County's 2026 benefits, visit:
01
*Each applicant must complete this supplemental questionnaire as a part of the application screening process. The supplemental questionnaire will be used as a scored evaluation of your knowledge, skills and experience. Provide complete information for each question. Do not write "see resume" as it is not an acceptable answer. The experiences you indicate in your responses will be reviewed and used to determine your eligibility to move forward in the selection process. Select "yes" if you have read and understand.
02
Please select the option that best applies to you if you have completed or are currently participating in any of the following Public Sector Partnership Programs at Ramsey County.
03
Do you have a valid driver's license?
04
*Select the option that best describes your highest level of completed education.
05
*If you indicated in the previous question that you have a degree, please describe below your field of study, the name of the school, dates of attendance/completion and type of degree. If you have other formal training and certifications related to this position, you may include that here. If you do not have a degree/college credit, please write N/A in the space below. DO NOT WRITE see resume or see application.
06
*Which best describes your progressively responsible experience in the administration of parks and recreation facilities, services and programs?
07
*Which best describes your experience in a supervisory/management capacity.?
08
*Describe the experience indicated in questions 5-6 above. Include the name of your employer and provide specific details of the work you performed. Do not copy and paste your resume, a job description or indicate "see resume". If you do not have this experience, type "N/A in the space below."
09
Select all areas below in which you have experience. (Check all that apply)
10
Describe your experience hiring and managing staff including any programming and maintenance personnel, handling disciplinary issues, and motivating employees. If you do not have experience in this area type "N/A" in the space below.
11
Describe your experience in leading the developing and overseeing of operational budgets. Please also list the amount of the budget you've overseen. If you do not have experience in this area Type "N/A" in the space below.
12
Describe your experience in working with other Watershed Districts or Water Management organizations. If you do not have experience in this area Type "N/A" in the space below.
13
Describe your experience creating contracts, request-for-proposals and managing contracts. If you do not have experience in this area Type "N/A" in the space below.
14
Describe your experience with writing and obtaining grants and grant reporting. If you do not have experience in this area Type "N/A" in the space below.
Required Question
Salary : $97,761.87 - $146,642.80 Annually
Location : (Parks & Recreation Admin Bldg) Maplewood, MN
Job Type: Full Time
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2026-00108
Department: Parks & Recreation
Division: SWC
Opening Date: 03/06/2026
Closing Date: 3/23/2026 11:59 PM Central
Union: Unrepresented
FLSA Status: exempt
Position Summary
The current vacancy is in the Parks & Recreation department. The eligibility list created by this vacancy may be used to hire other vacancies in the department or County.
To direct and manage the Soil & Water division of the Parks and Recreation Department including management of fiscal resources, natural resources management, human resource management, implementation and evaluation of program services; and to perform related duties as assigned. This position could supervise a team of up to 9 full-time employees, multiple seasonal / temporary employees and interns.
FlexibleWorkplace:
This position is identified under the designation of 'flex work eligible', meaning that the employee can formally opt to be in-office full-time or work a flex schedule in which at least two-days per week are performed in office and other days can be performed in a remote-first environment. Regardless of selection, the position carries expectations regarding on-site responsibilities and will require schedule flexibility beyond the minimum expectations set forth in the county's flexible workplace policy. To view Ramsey County's Flexible Workplace policy, go to: Flexible Workplace Policy
To view or print a copy of the complete Ramsey County job (class) description for this position, go to: Job Descriptions. Once at this page, you can browse the alphabetical list or search for a job description.
Examples of Work Performed
- Promote a diverse, culturally competent, and respectful workplace.
- Assist the director as principal assistant in the administration and management of all Parks and Recreation activities, including serving as the acting Director of Parks and Recreation in the director's absence.
- Assist the director in the formulation of goals, objectives, priorities, strategic plans and annual work plans for the department.
- Assist the director in identifying, organizing and implementing departmental activities.
- Act as department representative with government agencies, civic groups, and special interest groups to promote the county's interests in parks and recreation matters.
- Represent the Parks and Recreation Department by serving on countywide committees.
- Perform special assignments as directed, including research and policy analysis related to the Parks and Recreation Department, and make recommendations based on the results of such analysis.
- Plan, direct and manage all operation maintenance and program functions within assigned divisions to ensure high quality natural resources, facilities and services.
- Manage the operation and maintenance of natural resources; including soil, water, vegetation, and wildlife facilities. Direct the development, marketing and evaluation of programs and services to determine if they are achieving desired goals and objectives. Direct the development, preservation, and restoration of natural resources including soil, water, vegetation, and wildlife. Direct assigned staff in developing work plans, including priorities to assure proper training and effective and efficient utilization of staff and equipment.
- Develop and manage operating budgets for assigned divisions in a manner that ensures effective use of financial resources. Direct the purchase of materials and services in accordance with Ramsey County policies and procedures. Coordinate budget preparation and implementation with Director of Parks and Recreation. Prepare and manage annual operating budgets. Participate in the development of plans and specifications for purchase of equipment, and act as project manager for projects as assigned. Identify outside funding sources and develop and coordinate grant proposals to advance the goals and objectives of the department. Analyze operating statements and advise on methods to improve efficiency. Work with Finance to monitor and administer the operating budgets.
- In coordination with the department director, administer labor contracts and coordinate human resource management of the department, if applicable.
- Depending on assignment, represent the department as a member of the county negotiating team in collective bargaining. Administer employee performance evaluations for employees within assigned divisions. Represent the department in handling employee grievances pursuant to collective bargaining agreements.
- Plan staffing levels, assist Human Resources Department staff in coordinating examinations, conducting interviews and hiring of permanent and seasonal staff.
- Monitor workers compensation cases and coordinate with QRCs, attorneys and risk management on employee return to work programs. Integrate rules and regulations mandated by OSHA, EPA and Environmental Health to provide a safe work environment and hazard-free recreation facilities. Implement and direct Critical Incident Management Plan, Federal Highway Environmental Protection Agency, Bloodborne Diseases Exposure Control Plan, National Recycling and Emissions Program.
- Lead the department's Safety Committee; direct the development and implementation of staff training related to safety of employees and customers.
- Direct volunteer programs within assigned divisions to ensure proper utilization and recognition of volunteers consistent with department policies.
- Direct research, marketing, promotions, public relations, and customer service activities within assigned divisions to ensure responsiveness to customers.
- Prepare county board documentation, reports, manuals and other documents as they relate to assigned divisions.
(The work assigned to a position in this classification may not include all possible tasks in this description and does not limit the assignment of any additional tasks in this classification. Regular attendance according to the position's management approved work schedule is required.)
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18.
Minimum Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's Degree in Parks and Recreation, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field.
Experience: Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in the administration of parks and recreation facilities, services and programs, including two (2) years in a supervisory/management capacity.
Substitution: Equivalent combination of education and experience.
Certifications/Licensure: Valid class D driver's license.
Exam/Screening Process Information
The examination process will consist of the following section with each section weighted as indicated:
- Training and Experience Rating = 100%
Eligible List: The names of all applicants who filed a properly completed application and passed the examination/screening process shall be placed on the eligible list for an employment opportunity as a Director of Operations - Soil & Water Division. This list will be certified to the appointing authority which may use this list to conduct interviews to fill a vacancy. Candidates will remain on the list for 30 days or until hired, whichever occurs first. A notice will be sent to applicants at the time the eligible list is posted.
Veteran's Preference: This is a classified position requiring an open, competitive selection process. Veteran's Preference points will be applied after a candidate passes the examination process. Applicants who are eligible for veteran's preference should update their veteran's DD214, and other supporting documents, and submit them as an attachment at the time of application.
Criminal Background Checks: All employment offers are conditioned upon the applicant passing a criminal background check. Convictions are not an automatic bar to employment. Each case is considered on its individual merits and the type of work sought. However, making false statements or withholding information will cause you to be barred from employment, or removed from employment.
E-Verify Participation: Ramsey County participates in the federal E-Verify program. This means that Ramsey County will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. If the Government cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, Ramsey County is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact DHS and/or the SSA before taking adverse action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers may not use E-Verify to pre-screen job applicants and may not limit or influence the choice of documents you present for use on the Form I-9.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Ramsey County provides equal access to employment, programs, and services without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, sex (except when sex is a Bona Fide Occupational Qualification), disability, familial or marital status, sexual orientation or gender identity, public assistance status, place of residence, political affiliation, or national origin.
Ramsey County is deeply committed to advancing racial equity and promoting diversity and inclusion within all areas of its workforce. The county strives being equitable, inclusive, transparent, respectful, and impactful in how we serve and engage with residents, as well as Ramsey County employees. Advancing racial equity ensures all people who need access to opportunities and services we provide, will receive them. Racial equity is achieved when race can no longer be used to predict life outcomes, and outcomes for all are improved.
To print a paper application for this posting click You will need to print this posting and answer the supplemental questions associated with this exam and submit them with your completed paper application.
For further information regarding this posting, please contact:
Ramsey County provides a wide range of employee benefits to support health, well-being, and work/life balance. Benefits eligibility can vary depending on union status/contract language. A summary of benefits is provided below. Detailed information is available for review at
- Medical, dental and vision insurance
- The County contributes a bargained percentage to the medical and dental monthly premium
- Employees choose from four enrollment tiers: Single, Employee + legally married spouse, Employee + Child(ren), Family
- Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical insurance - three plan options including a High Deductible Plan with a Health Saving Account offered. Earn up to $20/month in electronic gift cards for each enrolled employee or spouse for wellness activity
- MetLife Dental Insurance - two plan options offered
- VSP Vision Insurance - Advantage Plan offered
- Pre-tax Benefit Program
- Pre-tax medical, dental, vision monthly premium deduction option
- Dependent and Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts
- County monthly contribution to a Health Savings Account for employees who elect the High Deductible medical plan
- Paid time off
- Vacation hours, accrued based on years of service, ranging from 12 to 25 days per year (pro-rated for part-time employees)
- 11 scheduled holidays and two floating holidays
- Up to eight weeks of 100% paid parental leave, plus additional use of sick time as noted below
- Sick hours accrued at a rate of three weeks per year, which can be used for medical and dental care; injury or illness for you, your spouse or children; the birth or adoption of a child (up to 80 hours) or the death of a family member (up to 40 hours)
- Wellness incentive allows conversion of unused sick time to vacation or pay
- Retirement benefits
- Pension - The county contributes at least 7.5% of your salary to your pension, depending on bargaining unit. Unlike other retirement investments, pension payments are a lifetime benefit once you start collecting payments
- New employees become vested after three years. For the Police and Fire union, employees are vested after 10 years
- Deferred compensation - 457(b) account with employer match
- Health Care Savings Plan - all benefits-eligible employees contribute 1% of gross regular salary to a Health Care Savings Plan account for eligible health care expenses after retirement. Interest accrues tax free. County provides a scheduled contribution after five years of participation
- Transit and parking
- Fully funded Metropass.
- Transportation/parking expenses reimbursement account
- Employee well-being
- Employee assistance program, including telephone counseling, financial counseling, rideshare benefits, etc.
- Wellness programming
- Flexible work policy with hybrid work options for eligible positions
- Life Insurance and Disability leave
- County provided Basic Life coverage - 1x annual salary, minimum $10,000 up to a maximum of $50,000. Optional supplemental coverage available
- Long-term Disability - County provided coverage replaces 40% of the employee's lost income after six months of disability, subject to a $5,000 monthly maximum. Option to purchase an additional 20% income replacement up to $7,500 monthly maximum
- Short-term Disability - option to purchase 60% income replacement coverage with 30, 60 or 90-day waiting period
- Career development
- Tuition reimbursement, up to $4,000 per year
- Online professional development opportunities through the Learning & Development Center
- County employment qualifies as a public service organization for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
- Employee resource groups - help employees build connections through common bonds with colleagues
For information about Ramsey County's 2026 benefits, visit:
01
*Each applicant must complete this supplemental questionnaire as a part of the application screening process. The supplemental questionnaire will be used as a scored evaluation of your knowledge, skills and experience. Provide complete information for each question. Do not write "see resume" as it is not an acceptable answer. The experiences you indicate in your responses will be reviewed and used to determine your eligibility to move forward in the selection process. Select "yes" if you have read and understand.
- Yes
- No
02
Please select the option that best applies to you if you have completed or are currently participating in any of the following Public Sector Partnership Programs at Ramsey County.
- HIRED Partnership Program
- Project for Pride in Living (PPL) Partnership Program
- Ramsey County Workforce Solutions
- Ramsey County Internship (including Right Track Plus)
- Fellowship at Ramsey County
- Limited-Duration Assignment at Ramsey County
- Provisional Assignment at Ramsey County
- Temporary Opportunity at Ramsey County
- Work Experience Program (e.g., Young Adult Career Academy)
- Job Shadow Experience at Ramsey County
- No, I have not participated in any of the above
03
Do you have a valid driver's license?
- Yes
- No
04
*Select the option that best describes your highest level of completed education.
- High school diploma or GED
- Associates Degree
- Bachelors Degree
- Masters Degree
- Doctoral Degree
- None of the above
05
*If you indicated in the previous question that you have a degree, please describe below your field of study, the name of the school, dates of attendance/completion and type of degree. If you have other formal training and certifications related to this position, you may include that here. If you do not have a degree/college credit, please write N/A in the space below. DO NOT WRITE see resume or see application.
06
*Which best describes your progressively responsible experience in the administration of parks and recreation facilities, services and programs?
- Less than 3 years of experience
- At least 3 years of experience but less than 5 years
- At least 5 years of experience but less than 7 years
- At least 7 years of experience but less than 9 years
- 9 years of experience or more
07
*Which best describes your experience in a supervisory/management capacity.?
- Less than 2 years of experience
- At least 2 years of experience but less than 5 years
- At least 5 years of experience but less than 7 years
- At least 7 years of experience but less than 9 years
- 9 years of experience or more
08
*Describe the experience indicated in questions 5-6 above. Include the name of your employer and provide specific details of the work you performed. Do not copy and paste your resume, a job description or indicate "see resume". If you do not have this experience, type "N/A in the space below."
09
Select all areas below in which you have experience. (Check all that apply)
- Determining best management practices for maintaining natural resources
- Creating wildlife management plans
- Global Information Systems (GIS)
- Developing project budgets
- Creating natural resources plans
10
Describe your experience hiring and managing staff including any programming and maintenance personnel, handling disciplinary issues, and motivating employees. If you do not have experience in this area type "N/A" in the space below.
11
Describe your experience in leading the developing and overseeing of operational budgets. Please also list the amount of the budget you've overseen. If you do not have experience in this area Type "N/A" in the space below.
12
Describe your experience in working with other Watershed Districts or Water Management organizations. If you do not have experience in this area Type "N/A" in the space below.
13
Describe your experience creating contracts, request-for-proposals and managing contracts. If you do not have experience in this area Type "N/A" in the space below.
14
Describe your experience with writing and obtaining grants and grant reporting. If you do not have experience in this area Type "N/A" in the space below.
Required Question