At the DNR, we are committed to the conservation and management of the state's natural resources for outdoor recreation, economic development, and a sustainable quality of life. Apply with us and find your path.

Working Title: Fisheries creel clerk
Job Class: Natural Resources Fisheries Census Clerk
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 01/25/2023
• Closing Date: 02/14/2023
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
• Division/Unit: Fish and Wildlife
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Rotating Shift
• Days of Work: Varies
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $17.33 - $22.70 / hourly
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: St. Paul Region
• Work Area: 206 - Clerical/AFSCME
• End Date: March 1, 2024
• Telework Eligible: No
• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: 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 exists to collect statistically reliable and minimally biased data on fishing pressure, harvest/release rates by species and angler profile information from Bald Eagle Lake during the 2023 open-water and 2024 winter angling seasons. This position has daily contact with anglers and requires strong interpersonal communication skills. During time periods when creel survey is not being conducted, the incumbent will assist with other office and field duties.The hours and days of work vary and will include weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities include:

• Perform fisheries census interviewing work by counting and interviewing anglers at selected survey sites so that estimates of fishing pressure, catch rates, and harvest by species may be accurately calculated.
• Collect data on anglers' fishing experience and catch based on census design; interview them with the aid of questionnaire forms; identify, and measure fish; collect scales, fin spines, or other fish parts; and collect and document weather and water temperatures.
• Conduct interviews of anglers and gather samples of aging structures by using polite, friendly conversation and explaining the reason for the intrusion.
• Transport and utilize various equipment including a full-sized pick-up truck.
• Count angling/boating activity through observation. Answer or properly refer questions about fishing and DNR fisheries work in general by using basic DNR program and fishing knowledge.
• Enter data into an MS Access database in a timely manner.

Minimum Qualifications

Ability to work in adverse weather and environmental conditions.

Ability to read, write, and speak English sufficient to request and accurately record information provided by anglers.

Knowledge of basic math to add, subtract, multiply and divide whole numbers.

Math skills sufficient to count and measure.

Ability to identify common fish species.

Understanding of basic fish anatomy.

Ability to independently follow a detailed schedule for collection of data.

Word processing and typing/keyboarding skills sufficient to accurately and efficiently enter data.

Preferred Qualifications

Associate's degree in fisheries management, aquatic biology, or related field.

Basic knowledge of occupational hazards, safety requirements, and the types of personal protective equipment appropriate to carry out tasks.

Experience using Microsoft Office programs including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Access.

Experience identifying common fish species.

Knowledge of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources fisheries policies and angling regulations.

Ability to navigate using a map, GPS, and a compass.

Experience working as a Fisheries Census Clerk or equivalent.

Physical Requirements

Requires occasionally lifting articles of 50-pounds 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 or slippery terrain and will involve sitting much of the time with pushing and pulling of arm and/or leg controls.

Additional Requirements

This 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

How to Apply

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

If you have questions about the position, contact TJ DeBates at timothy.debates@state.mn.us or 651-259-5770.

Why Work for Us

Diverse Workforce

We are committed to continually developing a workforce that reflects the diversity of our state and the populations we serve. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve the people of Minnesota.

A recent engagement survey of State of Minnesota employees found:

• 95% of employees understand how their work helps achieve their agency’s mission
• 91% of employees feel trusted to do their jobs
• 88% of employees feel equipped to look at situations from other cultural perspectives when doing their job
• 87% of employees report flexibility in their work schedule

Comprehensive Benefits

Our benefits aim to balance four key elements that make life and work meaningful: health and wellness, financial well-being, professional development, and work/life harmony. As an employee, your benefits may include:

• Public pension plan
• Training and professional development
• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 11 paid holidays each year
• Paid parental leave
• Low-cost medical and dental coverage
• Prescription drug coverage
• Vision coverage
• Wellness programs and resources
• Employer paid life insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability
• Health care spending and savings accounts
• Dependent care spending account
• Tax-deferred compensation
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Federal Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

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.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. The State of Minnesota recognizes that a diverse workforce is essential and strongly encourages qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply.

We will make reasonable accommodations 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 and indicate what assistance is needed.