Business Optimization SpecialistJob Class: Management Analyst 4Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources
Job ID: 93005
Location: St. Paul
Telework Eligible: Yes, Hybrid
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted: 03/24/2026
Closing Date: 04/13/2026
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
Division/Unit: Operations Services Division
Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
Days of Work: Monday - Friday
Travel Required: No
Salary Range: $33.48 - $49.66 / hourly; $69,906 - $103,690 / annually
Classified Status: Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/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.
Job Summary
The Department of Natural Resources is seeking to fille one (1) full-time Business Optimization Specialist at the Central Office in St. Paul, MN.
This position exists to provide support to the Records Management and Data Governance programs as they work to mature the DNR's data and information management practices across the department. Document workflows necessary to accomplish business tasks related to data and information management; this will allow the department to more effectively store, retrieve, and share data, records, and documents in accordance with state and federal laws and regulatory mandates. Ensure the DNR knows what data and information it has, who is responsible for it, and how it is managed. Evaluate opportunities for modernizing business processes and carry out system support as directed.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Monitor and analyze records, data, and related information management systems with department-wide impact to improve efficiencies and mitigate related risks. This includes systems with department-wide impact to improve efficiencies and mitigate related risks. This includes systems planning and governance (policies, technology, and procedures) across the DNR so that continuous improvement needs are identified and proposed strategies are developed and recommended to department leadership for implementation.
Lead and coordinate business process modernization through digital information system transformations, such as electronic signatures, remote authorization, and approval processes for similar electronic business tools.
Provide business-side administration of file management and collaboration tools on behalf of DNR by developing policies and procedures, designing, and coordinating trainings, and providing consultation and support to site owners.
This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete an annual telework agreement.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
Three (3) years of experience in the area of data practices, and electronic file management and collaboration systems, sufficient to store, retrieve, and share data records, and documents in accordance with statutory and regulatory requirements.
A bachelor's degree in data practices, library sciences, information science, public administration, or closely related field may substitute for one (1) year of experience.
Knowledge of data practice policy and regulations, sufficient to ensure that appropriate procedures are being followed.
Knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies sufficient to ensure that appropriate procedures are being followed.
Skills with office technology systems, such as Microsoft Office, or similar programs, data management systems, and internet applications, to assemble, analyze, and synthesize information from data sources.
Interpersonal and communication skills sufficient to communicate in a highly professional manner, sufficient to write instruction manuals, policies, make recommendations to agency leadership, and inform agency staff of data information management requirements.
Skills in project management and administrative management, sufficient to design, plan, organize, direct, and evaluate resources.
Ability to review and interpret statutory language, agency policy, and best practices pertaining to information management and related security considerations.
Ability to plan, and create training materials, and conduct classroom training sessions.
Ability to organize and coordinate work activities of designated individuals located within other business units.
Ability to analyze, identify, develop, interpret and map programs requirements, sufficient to conduct policy and program audits and report program metrics.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in data practices, library sciences, information science, public administration, or closely related field.
Experience planning, designing, evaluating, and implementing a program and project activities at a regional or statewide scope.
Experience managing a records management program in a large state agency, or similar organization.
Knowledge of library science principles, data governance, and records management.
Knowledge of document classification and indexing methods.
Additional Requirements
No driving duties are required.
Applicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H1B status).
It is policy of the Department of Natural Resources that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:
Conflict of Interest Review
Criminal History Check
Education Verification
Employment Reference / Records Check
License / Certification Verification
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 http://www.mn.gov/careers.
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact Mikki Desque at mikki.desque@state.mn.us or 651-259-5306.
If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA.DNR@state.mn.us.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 Rebecca McMillen at rebecca.mcmillen@state.mn.us.
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.