Watercraft Inspection Internships

The watercraft inspector serves to inform and educate the public to the threats of ecologically harmful aquatic invasive species to Minnesota's waters. Inspectors work at public water access sites educating the public by providing information to watercraft users and conducting a brief survey while inspecting watercraft for invasive species. Other duties include assisting the coordinator with access postings, assisting Conservation Officers with access checks, invasive plant removal, and other natural resource projects.

  • Educate the public on invasive species program and issues
  • Distribute written information to watercraft users
  • Inspect watercraft for invasive species
  • Conduct a verbal survey and record survey data

Position

Temporary full-time (in all areas)

  • Willingness to work varying hours including weekends and holidays, and in adverse weather conditions (May-September)
    • Start and end dates flexible based on school schedules
  • Watercraft Inspector pay rate $19 per hour
    • Mileage reimbursement rate is IRS rate

Application deadline

Apply on the State of Minnesota careers website. Complete application instructions will be outlined in each internship posting.

Eligibility

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

  1. You must be a student at an accredited educational institution; AND
  2. 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.
Additional requirements

To qualify for the Watercraft Inspection Program applicants must pass a criminal background check and have an unrestricted Class D Driver’s license with a clear driving record.

Program structure

Watercraft Inspectors will be assigned to a specific area of responsibility which will include multiple public water accesses. Personal transportation is required and mileage will be reimbursed.

Locations

The watercraft inspection program will fill positions across Minnesota. Check the State of Minnesota careers website and search for the Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Watercraft Inspector Intern postings to see a complete list of vacancies. Opportunities are published every January.

Skills

  1. Analytical skills sufficient to examine watercraft or water-related equipment to verify compliance
  2. Interpersonal and communication skills sufficient to communicate regulations and compliance related information to a diverse community of recreational watercraft users.
  3. Ability to collect and record detailed survey data
  4. Ability to work independently and follow regulatory protocols with minimal supervision.
  5. Ability to coordinate multiple tasks within a professional setting
  6. Demonstrated interest in environmental work through education, volunteer work, and/or hobbies

Contact information

Northwest Region

Fergus Falls

Northeast Region

Brainerd

Central Region

St. Cloud

St. Paul

Southwest Region

Hutchinson

Shakopee

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