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Minnesota Department of Natural Resources · 5 hours ago

Mussel Survey Intern

Lake City, MN

Internship

Onsite

Intern

$19/hr - $19/hr

Start in 2026 Summer

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all Minnesotans. They are seeking a Mussel Survey Intern to assist in conducting freshwater mussel and snail surveys, provide dive safety support, and assist with mussel data entry as part of a statewide monitoring and restoration program.

Government Administration

Responsibilities

Assist in conducting freshwater mussel and snail surveys in selected rivers and lakes statewide in Minnesota

Provide dive safety support

Assist with mussel propagation as needed

Assist with mussel data entry and research as part of the statewide mussel survey, monitoring, and restoration program

Qualification

SCUBA certificationBiology majorField survey experienceDiving in cold waterRecord keeping skillsFollow directionsCommunication skillsTeamwork

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: biology, natural resources, fisheries and wildlife, recreation resource management, ecology, or environmental science

Ability to be SCUBA certified by the date of hire

Ability to perform multiple dives or snorkeling surveys per day from a boat in cold water with low visibility

Ability to work in a wide range of field conditions (cold, wet, mud, bugs, etc.)

Ability to lift and carry heavy equipment

Ability to work with a small group of people over extended hours

Ability to travel for a week on short notice and work odd hours

Ability to follow directions and work independently and well as part of a team

Excellent human relation 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

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

SCUBA certification

Excellent record keeping and organization skills

Experience diving or snorkeling in cold water with low visibility

Experience trailing and backing boats, campers, utility trailers, or heavy equipment

Experience identifying native freshwater mussels (not Zebra Mussels)

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