Mine Interpreter

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

Recruitment began on March 1, 2026

and the job listing Expires on April 1, 2026

• Location
  :
  Soudan Underground Mine State Park
• Full/Part Time
  :
  Part-Time
• Regular/Temporary
  :
  Seasonal
• Who May Apply
  :
  Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted
  : 02/27/2026
• Closing Date
  : 03/19/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit
  :
  Department of Natural Resources
• Division/Unit
  :
  Parks and Trails Region 2
• Work Shift/Work Hours
  :
  Day Shift
• Days of Work
  :
  Monday – Friday
• Travel Required
  :
  No
• Salary Range: $22.91 – $32.37 / hourly
• Classified Status
  :
  Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union
  : 207 – Technical/AFSCME

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.

We are currently seeking to fill one (1) part‑time (90%) Mine Interpreter position at Lake Vermillion Soudan Underground Mine State Park. Workdays are typically between the hours of 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with an occasional early start or evening. Days of work will vary. Due to the seasonality of the position, employees may be called to work weekends and holidays. Days off may vary.

Typical season dates are October to April each year.

A trip 2,341 feet down to the 27th level of the Soudan Underground Mine is one of the most unique tour experiences available in Minnesota. The  Interpreter will bring this authentic experience to others by developing and leading historic mine tours, walking geology tours, science‑based physics lab tours and surface interpretation at Lake Vermilion‑Soudan Underground Mine State Park. The  Interpreter position will develop and lead mine tours and surface interpretation at Lake Vermilion‑Soudan Underground Mine State Park.

This position provides interpretive services such as answering questions from customers, researching material for programs, assisting with tour movements, and maintaining the visitor center facilities.

• Develop and present interpretive tours.
• Perform administrative functions to ensure orderly interpretive services are provided and documented.
• Enforce mine safety rules.
• Sell tour tickets and gift store items.
• Respond to medical and emergency situations.
• Maintain the visitor center facilities and surrounding buildings and grounds.
• Operate equipment such as the train, cage and shaft system and communication equipment in a safe and responsible manner.

* CANDIDATES MUST BE 18 YEARS OLD or older by start date, in compliance with applicable law*

• Six months experience in interpretation; OR one year experience in cultural history, geology, education, or natural history; OR equivalent experience.
• Applicants who meet this requirement must also pass a practical exercise that involves developing and giving a short presentation.

• Communication skills sufficient to effectively present informative and interesting information on the mine and park to diverse audiences.
• Ability to consistently present a positive, professional and friendly image sufficient to create a good experience for visitors and co‑workers.
• Ability to plan and execute educational programs.
• Ability to operate the mine cage and shaft system and train.
• Ability to manage visitors and deal with emergency response situations.
• Arithmetic skills sufficient to accurately collect money from the public for various fees, and make change.
• Ability to read and comprehend instructions.
• Ability to work in dark, damp and cool underground mine environments.
• Ability to climb stairs and emergency ladders.
• Ability to work in confined spaces.
• Ability to use a computer and cash register.

• College degree in education, geology, interpretation, history, or related field.
• Knowledge of iron mining history, methods, technology and geology.
• Knowledge of park rules, policies, and facilities.
• Knowledge of interpretive techniques and methods.
• Experience in public…