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Minnesota Department of Natural Resources · 15 hours ago

Stream Fish Habitat Intern

Little Falls, 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 a Stream Fish Habitat Intern to assist the River Ecology Unit in collecting stream fish-habitat data, including fish identification and habitat quantification. The role involves teamwork, data entry, and travel for fieldwork from June to August.

Government Administration

Responsibilities

Assist the crew leader in the collection of biological and physical data on streams

Fish identification

Collection of voucher specimens

Stream habitat and cover quantification

Use of wading rods with current meters, electrofishing equipment, purse seine, GPS, and boats

Organizing equipment and maintenance

Data entry in Microsoft Access and ArcGIS

Topographic surveying

Geomorphologic monitoring of stream restoration projects

Qualification

Fish identificationElectrofishingData collectionMicrosoft AccessArcGISSwimmingWillingness to travelExtended shiftsTeamwork

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: natural resources, fisheries, aquatic ecology/ biology, or water resource management

Coursework in ichthyology

Ability to identify fish using dichotomous keys

Ability to work well as part of a team and independently

Ability to swim

Willingness to travel overnight, 2 - 4 nights per week on short notice

Willingness to work extended shifts of 10 - 12 hours as needed and in adverse weather conditions

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

Preferred

Experience with fish identification under field conditions

Experience identifying non-game fish species

Experience with electrofishing

Experience trailering and towing

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