Waseca County, named for the Dakota word meaning "rich", a reference to the fertile soil in the area, was established February 27, 1857, one year before Minnesota became a state. Located in the heart of the Southern Lakes Region of south-central Minnesota and covering 423 square miles, Waseca County is known for its rich, black soil producing record crops every year. The major industries are farming, printing, manufacturing and tourism. Waseca County has four major cities: Janesville, New Richland, Waldorf and Waseca - the county seat—and twelve townships. Built in 1897, the Waseca County Courthouse is on the National Register of Historic Places and houses most County Offices. Waseca County has a land area of 423.36 square miles; it serves a population of 18,989. The County is served by U.S. 14 and State Highways 13, 30, 60, and 83. It is located an hour’s drive from Rochester, Minnesota and an hour and a half drive from Minneapolis-Saint Paul. To view our job opportunities, visit https://www.co.waseca.mn.us/jobs.aspx