Working Title: Park Operations Intern
Job Class: Intern
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources
Job ID : 90581
Location : Various
Telework Eligible : No
Full/Part Time : Full-Time and Part- Time
Regular/Temporary : Intern
Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted : 01/02/2026
Closing Date : 02/02/2026
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Department of Natural Resources
Division/Unit : Parks and Trails
Work Shift/Work Hours : Varies
Days of Work : Varies
Travel Required : No
Salary Range: $19.00 / hourly
Classified Status : Non-Status
Bargaining Unit/Union : 223 - Non-Employee/Unrepresented
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.
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 full time and part time internships at the following State Park locations: Buffalo River, Glendalough, Frontenac, Maplewood, Temperance River, Tettegouche, Lake Vermillion - Soudan Underground Mine, and Whitewater. After the posting close date, we will email applicants directly to request their preferred work location.
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.
Hours of work vary and include evenings, weekends, and holidays. Normal work hours vary depending on day of the week and park needs. Some shifts will include late afternoon and/or evening hours. Housing is provided at the following locations: Lake Vermillion - Soudan Underground Mine & 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.
Minimum Qualifications
To 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 a degree program related to Natural Resources.
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.
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.
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.
