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Minnesota Department of Natural Resources · 15 hours ago

Wildlife Research Intern

Madelia, MN

Internship

Onsite

Intern

$19/hr - $19/hr

Start in 2026 Spring

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is seeking a Wildlife Research Intern to assist in wildlife research and management. The role involves on-the-job training in various wildlife research and population monitoring projects, primarily focusing on upland game and ungulate species.

Government Administration

No H1B

Responsibilities

Assist in the collection of field data and biological samples, processing of samples, recording of observational notes, entry of data into electronic files, maintenance of equipment and supplies, and writing summaries of activities

Assist FaWPRG staff in all aspects of fieldwork, including vegetation/habitat sampling, camera trap deployment, and capture of wild game species for marking and radiotracking purposes

Communicate with private landowners and members of the public in a professional manner

Participate in field sampling of soil, plants, and insects; and dissection of roosters and their tissues for later chemical analysis

Estimate deer densities in the forest zone using camera traps

Engage in goose banding opportunities in collaboration with area wildlife management staff

Collect data on common farmland wildlife species including pheasants, partridge, rabbits, doves, cranes, and deer during annual August roadside surveys

Investigate the life history characteristics of elk in northwest Minnesota, including adult and calf survival, movement, and causes of mortality

Qualification

Wildlife BiologyEcologyWildlife ManagementData CollectionGPS NavigationFieldwork Experience4WD Vehicle OperationMicrosoft WordMicrosoft ExcelCommunication Skills

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: Ecology, Wildlife Biology, Wildlife Management, Natural Resources, Conservation Biology, or related degree. Please contact us if you are unsure if your major qualifies

Ability to use standard field and lab techniques to collect biological data in the field responsibly and safely

Ability and willingness to work long hours in adverse weather and environmental conditions (hot, wet, mud, bugs, snakes, etc.)

Ability to lift and carry equipment while walking through uneven terrain

Ability to read maps and navigate with compass and GPS

Ability to follow written protocols

Ability to learn how to safely and properly restrain wildlife captured for marking and tracking purposes

Ability to maintain strict quality control to ensure data are recorded properly onto datasheets or databases

Proficiency with basic computer programs including Microsoft Word and Excel, and ability to learn data entry into Access

Ability to work alone and as part of a team

Ability to operate 4WD vehicles including pick-up trucks on minimally maintained roads

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 wildlife management (e.g., wildlife population dynamics, wildlife habitat, wildlife techniques, ornithology, mammalogy), ecology, natural resource management, conservation biology, or related courses with a grade of C or better

Experience with identifying common farmland wildlife and other game species including upland game birds (e.g., pheasants, grouse, turkeys), mammals (e.g., deer, elk, mesocarnivores, furbearers), and waterfowl

Experience with reading maps and navigating with compass and/or GPS to move within and among field sites

Experience with outdoor field work

Experience troubleshooting and resolving problems

Experience with radiotelemetry, including triangulation and homing techniques

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

Tuition reimbursement

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