Park Operations Intern

Working Title: Park Operations InternJob Class: InternAgency: MN Department of Natural Resources

Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers

Date Posted : 03/18/2023

Closing Date : 03/31/2023

Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Department of Natural Resources

Division/Unit : Parks & Trails

Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift

Days of Work : Monday - Friday

Travel Required : No

Salary Range: $15.00 /hourly

Classified Status : Non-Status

Bargaining Unit/Union : 223 - Non-Employee/Unrep

FLSA Status : Nonexempt

Telework Eligible : No

Re-Posting : Yes

Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities (https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/diverse-workforce/people-with-disabilities/connect700/) : No

Make a difference in the lives of Minnesotans.The work you’ll do is more than just a job. Join the talented, engaged and inclusive workforce dedicated to creating a better Minnesota.This position was previously announced on 01/03/2023. If you already applied for this job, you do not need to reapply. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) provides outdoor recreation activities and manages Minnesota’s natural resources to create economic opportunity and a sustainable quality of life. We are driven to find talented, innovative employees to help us carry out this mission.We are currently seeking to fill multiple internships at the following State Park locations: Frontenac and Whitewater.If you are applying for the posting after March 13th, please note you will only be considered for the location listed above. Please only select the above open location as your preferred location within the application.These positions provide students with an educational experience and on-the-job training in park management, visitor services, and public contact along with assisting with various aspects of park operations. Other opportunities may include learning about and assisting in environmental education and interpretive activities, the maintenance staff, resource management, and assisting the park security staff. To help us learn more about State Park visitors, and to better inform DNR State Park decisions, the Maplewood and Whitewater internship includes administering visitor surveys for up to approximately 50% of the internship.Hours of work vary and include evenings, weekends, and holidays. Normal work hours vary depending on day of the week and park needs. Most shifts will include late afternoon and/or evening hours. Housing is only provided at the following location: Tettegouche.Job responsibilities are unique at each location and may include, but are not limited to:

Assist staff in daily operation activities while learning about visitor services and customer service by greeting the public and providing information on the park and local area. Daily operation activities include cleaning and grounds maintenance.

Become familiar with and explain the park rules, regulations, policies, and procedures to the public.

Sell vehicle permits, firewood, and merchandise.

Register campers and work with the campground reservation system.

Learn about and follow auditing procedures by collecting user fees and reconciling the daily receipts.

All activities are performed under the direction of park management. Student will be trained and instructed in the use of construction tools, constructions skills, safety, and park management.

Administer surveys to state park visitors in accordance with the research protocol, sampling design, and best practices for handling sensitive, non-public data.

Minimum QualificationsTo be eligible for an internship, you must meet the following requirements:

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.

AND

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

Excellent human relation and communication skills sufficient to interact with park users and to represent the position and Division in a professional, efficient, and clear manner.

Ability to operate a motor vehicle, ATV, lawn mower, small hand tools, and other equipment and tools.

Ability to work in adverse weather and environmental conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

Enrolled in Natural Resources Management or related degree program.

Ability to effectively manage an emergency situation.

Ability to provide excellent customer service.

Experience with or knowledge about social science research methods and survey administration.

Physical RequirementsMedium Work - occasionally lifting articles such as 50 pound bags of feed maximum and frequently lifting and/or carrying objects such as heavy tools and file boxes. This job may require walking or standing to a significant degree on rough terrain or may involve sitting most of the time with pushing and pulling of arm and/or leg controls.Additional RequirementsThis position requires an unrestricted Class D Driver’s License with a clear driving record.It is policy of the Department of Natural Resources that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. All job offers are contingent upon passing the following components:

Employment Reference Check

SEMA4 Records Check

Criminal History Check

Conflict of Interest Review

Education/license verification

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERMinnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.Reasonable accommodations will be made to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . Please indicate what assistance is needed.