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Upland Game Field Research Tech

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
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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: 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.

Job Summary

 

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. 

 

Qualifications

 

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

Application Details

 

How to Apply 

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Steven Woodley at Steven.Woodley@state.mn.us or 507-578-8915.

If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA.DNR@state.mn.us. 

Working together to improve the state we love. 

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common? 

  • A sense of purpose in their work
  • Connection with their coworkers and communities
  • Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits 

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include: 

  • 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

Support to help you reach your career goals:

  • 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

 

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota. 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS 

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.