Intern - Groundwater Protection & Soil Health

Recognized as one of the best places to work in Southeast Minnesota for three consecutive years, at Olmsted County every role helps to foster a vibrant community where everyone thrives. Our employees are at the heart of everything we do, driving public service excellence and community well-being.

We don’t just offer a job, we offer a career filled with purpose, growth, and fulfillment. Our benefits package ensures your wellbeing, while career advancement opportunities and professional development empower you to reach your full potential.

Join us, and you'll be part of a purpose-driven team where your work truly makes a difference. Together, we build a sustainable, healthy, and welcoming community.

Minimum Qualifications Of Education And Experience

Candidates must be enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program studying engineering, resource management, wildlife management, water resources, agriculture, agronomy, or a similar field.

AND

Possess the ability to work full-time (40 hours per week) in person. This position may include evening and weekend hours.

Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver’s license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Nature of Work

Under the supervision of the Soil Conservation Manager, this position assists with determining the impacts and benefits of Olmsted County's soil health program and conducts special projects. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.

Examples of Work

• Collects biomass samples in the field for lab analysis.
• Assists staff with program promotion, implementation, and certifications.
• Collects and analyzes sales data for seed and equipment.
• Researches opportunities for a co-op mill for oats.
• Assists with surveys to collect program information and analyzes feedback.
• Conducts cost-benefit analyses.
• Researches costs to implement practices and the ongoing benefits of implementation.
• Performs related duties as assigned.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Knowledge of soil properties, groundwater geology, hydrology, and topography
• Knowledge of conservation best management practices.
• Skill in analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Skill in the use of computers and technology.
• Ability to create visual representations of data.
• Ability to think critically and recommend solutions to problems.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work.
  
  

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.

Physical Demands and Work Environment: In compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act, the following represents the Physical and Environmental Demands:

Function

24% or Less

25% - 49%

50%-74%

75% or more

Office Environment

X

Sitting

X

Standing, Walking

X

Reaching, Kneeling, Stooping

X

Lift up to 10 pounds

X

Repetitive hand movements

X

Typing/Data Entry

X

Talking, Hearing

X

Close Vision (Near Acuity)

X

Sedentary (exert up to 10 pounds of force)

X

An Equal Opportunity Employer

Additional Considerations

• This is a Rochester, MN based position and is not remote eligible at this time.
• International relocation or international remote working arrangements (outside of the US) will not be considered.
• Applicants for this position must be currently authorized to work in the United States.
• Olmsted County does not sponsor applicants for this position.
  
  

No benefits for positions less than one year duration and less than .50 full-time equivalency (FTE).

01

I understand that I must thoroughly complete the Education, Work Experience, Certificates and Licenses, and Supplemental Questions sections of my application. This includes a detailed description of all work experience that I feel qualifies me for the job I am seeking. I also understand that I may not submit resumes in lieu of filling out the application or answering the Supplemental Questions.

• I have read the above statement and understand that failure to provide sufficient detailed information may result in my application being rejected or my receiving a lower examination score which may make me ineligible for further consideration in this recruitment process.
  
  

02

You must meet the minimum qualifications to be considered for the Intern position. Please select the answer that best describes your education and experience.

• Enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program studying engineering, resource management, wildlife management, water resources, agriculture, agronomy, or a similar field.
• No combination of related education and/or experience as listed above.
• Required Question