Working Title: Upland Game Field Research Tech
Job Class: Natural Resources Technician
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources
Job ID : 89835
Location : Madelia
Telework Eligible : No
Full/Part Time : Full-Time
Regular/Temporary : Temporary
Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted : 11/17/2025
Closing Date : 12/08/2025
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Department of Natural Resources
Division/Unit : Fish and Wildlife
Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift
Days of Work : Monday - Friday
Travel Required : Yes
Salary Range: $21.36 - $29.68 / hourly; $44,599 - $61,971 / annually
Classified Status : Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union : 207 - Technical/AFSCME
Work Area : Madelia
End Date : 11/25/2026
FLSA Status : Nonexempt
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities (https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/diverse-workforce/people-with-disabilities/connect700/) : No
The work you'll do is more than just a job.
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
This position is being filled simultaneously with Job ID 89859. Please note the expected duration of each job posting when submitting an application. If you would like to be considered for both appointment durations, please apply to both job postings.
The DNR is currently seeking to fill one (1) temporary Natural Resources Technician position to support upland game research projects led by staff in the Farmland Wildlife Populations and Research Group during 2026. This position is based out of Madelia, MN and will travel to field sites located throughout south central, southwest, and west central Minnesota. Days and hours will vary, and may include early mornings, evenings, overnights, and weekends to fit with data collection schedules. The position will begin on/near March 11, 2025, and is expected to operate through late November 2026. Housing may be available, but some restrictions apply.
This position will primarily support a research project evaluating neonicotinoid (neonic) insecticide concentrations in pheasants and their associated habitats but will also assist with other research and population monitoring projects (e.g., August roadside surveys, carnivore scent post surveys, etc.) as needed. The technician will assist the project lead in conducting fieldwork, processing samples, recording observational notes, entering data into electronic files, maintaining and organizing equipment and supplies, and writing summaries of activities. The fieldwork will include collecting samples and data responsibly and safely, including under a variety of challenging field and weather conditions (e.g., cold, heat, rain, humidity, biting insects, etc). Fieldwork also entails working a varying schedule as needed to meet data collection needs across different project stages.
Responsibilities include:
Performing all job responsibilities in a manner that supports a healthy, safe, and productive work environment for all employees.
Collecting insect, vegetation, and soil samples in the field, then properly preparing, organizing, and storing these samples in the lab for future chemical analysis of neonics.
Dissecting harvested pheasants to remove tissues (e.g., crops, livers, muscle), then properly preparing, organizing, and storing these samples in the lab for future chemical analysis of neonics.
Assisting the project lead with creating and updating maps in ArcPro.
Using GPS units to navigate in the field.
Sorting, organizing, cleaning, and/or otherwise maintaining field equipment and supplies in preparation for use or storage.
Attending and actively participating in all required meetings and training sessions.
Assisting the project lead with literature reviews, as needed.
Operating 4WD trucks on minimally maintained roads and parking lots.
Minimum Qualifications
Knowledge of ecology and wildlife biology.
Experience following written protocols and collecting biological data in wildlife field settings.
Work experience navigating terrain over distances using maps and GPS units to navigate within and between field sites.
Applied skills in standard lab techniques to prepare, organize, and properly store biological data including animal tissue samples.
Communication skills sufficient to effectively relay or receive technical information and record field data.
Applied skill in using standard software programs for word processing, creating/editing spreadsheets (such as Excel), and databases sufficient to accurately enter scientific data into data tablets, datasheets, and databases.
Ability and willingness to work alone in the field, including remote areas, with minimal supervision.
Ability to work effectively and courteously with DNR staff and members of the public, including private landowners and hunters.
Preferred Qualifications
Associates or bachelor's degree in wildlife, ecology, natural resource management, or related field.
Work experience collecting vegetation/habitat data.
Experience identifying plants common to Midwest grasslands and farmlands.
Experience interacting with public land managers, private landowners, and the general public.
Experience using ArcGIS.
Experience using Microsoft Access.
Experience independently troubleshooting and resolving problems.
Additional Requirements
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. 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. The background check may consist of the following components:
Conflict of Interest Review
Criminal History Check
Education Verification
Employment Reference / Records Check
License / Certification Verification
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Minnesota 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.
