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Minnesota Department of Natural Resources · 9 hours ago

Aquatic Invasive Species Intern

Hutchinson, MN

Internship

Onsite

Intern

$19/hr - $19/hr

Start in 2026 Summer

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is dedicated to improving the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. They are seeking an Aquatic Invasive Species Intern to provide technical support for the Invasive Species Program, conducting investigations and assisting in public education efforts regarding invasive species.

Government Administration

Responsibilities

Conduct physical and biological investigations on lakes and wetlands in Minnesota

Assist in aquatic plant surveys, herbicide treatment evaluations, processing and analysis of field data, and preparation of data requested by the Invasive Species Specialist

Help deliver invasive species information to the public to educate and help prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species

Qualification

Ecological data collectionMicrosoft WordMicrosoft ExcelArcMap GISSCUBA certificationAquatic plant identificationField observationWeather adaptabilityTeam collaborationVerbal communication

Required

You must be a student at an accredited educational institution

Your advisor must certify that you will either receive academic credit or fulfill an academic requirement. The signature of a sponsoring academic instructor is required prior to beginning an internship

Majoring in one of the following programs: biology, natural resources, fisheries and wildlife, ecology, environmental science, geology, aquatic biology, botany, water resources management, and hydrology or other closely related fields

Interested in natural resources work and the DNR

Ability to collect ecological data, record observations in a field setting and clear writing skills

Knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel software sufficient to prepare tables and figures from data

Ability and willingness to work in various weather conditions, operate and work in a boat with an outboard motor, safely operate trucks (4WD), trailering, towing, and launching boats

Willing to learn to identify aquatic plants by conducting aquatic plant surveys

Knowledge of ArcMap GIS software and GPS equipment sufficient to create maps

Ability to use snorkeling gear and/or hold a SCUBA certification

Ability to work cooperatively as part of a small team AND willing and able to work independently

Excellent human relation and verbal communication skills sufficient to represent the position and Division in a professional, efficient, clear, and respectful manner

This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver's license with a clear driving record

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

It is policy of the Department of Natural Resources that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment

Benefits

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

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

Company

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) works with citizens to conserve and manage the state's natural resources, to provide outdoor recreation opportunities, and to provide for commercial uses of natural resources in a way that creates a sustainable quality of life.

Founded in 1971