Apply on Employer Site

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources · 12 hours ago

Fisheries Intern

Fergus Falls, MN

Internship

Onsite

Intern

$19/hr - $19/hr

Start in 2026 Spring

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is dedicated to managing the state's natural resources and providing outdoor recreation activities. They are seeking Fisheries Interns to assist with fisheries survey work, management, and research, requiring teamwork and communication skills in various outdoor conditions.

Government Administration

No H1B

Responsibilities

Do a variety of fisheries survey work as part of a crew

Involved in various aspects of fisheries management, research, or facility operations at the local level

Learn about and help implement DNR fisheries investigational programs

Work physically demanding tasks, including climbing in and out of a boat in up to waist-deep water, heavy lifting, and walking on soft or uneven ground

Handle live and dead fish and other aquatic organisms, including dissection of fish that are in varying degrees of decay

Work nights, weekends, and holidays as required

Operate motorboats and large vehicles after training, sometimes towing trailers

Qualification

BiologyFisheries ManagementEcologyData EntryGPSGISOutdoor Field WorkHandling FishInterpersonal SkillsCommunication SkillsAttention to Detail

Required

You must be a student at an accredited educational institution; AND

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 areas: Biology, Natural Resources, Fisheries or Wildlife Management, Recreation Resource Management, Ecology, Environmental Science, or related degree. Please contact us if you are unsure if your major qualifies

Ability to handle live and dead fish

Interpersonal skills to effectively interact and communicate in person and remotely with staff and a diverse customer base interested or involved in resource management

Knowledge of personal computers and applications sufficient to complete data entry

Ability to work in adverse weather and environmental conditions from a boat or while wading in the water

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

This position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver's license with a clear driving record; per DNR Fleet Policy, only those 18 years of age or older with a valid driver's license may operate equipment and vehicles on behalf of the Agency

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

Preferred

Coursework in fisheries management, fisheries science, ichthyology, fisheries techniques, general ecology, aquatic ecology, limnology, natural resource management, or related courses with a grade of C- or better

Experience identifying native fish species and aquatic plants using taxonomic keys

Experience with GPS and Geographic Information System (GIS)

Safety, CPR, First Aid training, and boater education safety certification

Demonstrated attention to detail in recording data

Experience trailering, backing, and operating boats

Experience with outdoor field work, especially on water

Demonstrated experience with physically demanding work, sports, or hobbies

Experience handling live and dead fish

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

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