Wild for wildlife? DNR is hiring for spring temp positions

For those looking to work outdoors in the warmer months, the Department of Natural Resources has openings for temporary positions this spring.

The jobs are available around the state and could draw in those looking to enter a career in conservation or retirees looking to be outdoors, said John Darling, a wildlife technician at Harsens Island.

“Probably the most common pool of candidates we get are college-aged students that are prospective employees at the start of their career or late career, possibly retirees, people that are looking for part-time work or a fun summer job or the opportunity to work outside,” he said.

The job titles for the temporary positions for people 18 years and older include spring non-career wildlife assistant and spring non-career wildlife state worker. Employees work from May to September, Darling said. Pay is $15-$19.78 an hour. The title of some non-career positions, for example, wildlife assistant, is listed at $19.78 an hour, according to the DNR job openings website.

“Frequently these positions are intended to be extra set of hands during the summer,” he said. “So it's obviously our busy time.”

Job tasks will vary by location, Darling said.

The jobs include:

--Helping with wildlife habitat maintenance and improvement. This may include planting trees, farming, cutting clearings and adjusting water levels--Assist with landscaping, mowing and facility maintenance--Tasks related to wildlife sample collection, wildlife surveys, nuisance animal control, crop damage inspections and equipment operation and maintenance

Darling said that due to the limited availability of permanent wildlife jobs in the state, gaining experience with a temporary job is ideal.

“It's not a mandatory stepping stone by any means, but the advantage to them is it's a good way to gain some experience, networking,” he said. “Build your resume … It's a pretty low risk for a prospective employee or someone looking to start their career to kind of learn what they like and what they don't like. What they’re good at and what they're passionate at. It's a good way to build your career.”

Applications are due Feb. 5. Those interested can apply for postings on the Michigan's Department of Natural Resources jobs page by searching "wildlife" to show openings in the wildlife division.

cwilliams@detroitnews.com