JOB
POSTING TYPE: ExternalDEPARTMENT: Environmental Resources - Land Acquisition ProgramHOURS: Full-Time TemporaryHIRING RANGE: $15.00 - 17.00/hourly depending on qualificationsLOCATION: Western Service Center, Apple ValleyUNION: NoneCLOSE DATE: This posting will remain open until all available positions will be filled. The initial review of applications will occur on January 21, 2022 This temporary position is a great opportunity for a current student or recent graduate to further explore their interest and gain work experience in the communications and environmental resources field. This is a three-month, full-time internship. The Communication Intern will assist County Land Conservation Unit staff on a variety of activities and projects related to implementing elements of the Land Conservation Plan for Dakota County, such as developing communications pieces, including landowner outreach materials and a conservation video series; updating the County website; developing a land conservation storyboard; and conducting landowner interviews. We are seeking a candidate that is passionate about communications and the environment. This internship position functions in a staff-level capacity as part of the Environmental Resources Department. We anticipate this position will work in the office, in the field, and remotely. NOTE: Hiring manager requests applicants attach a cover letter and resume.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

• Two years of post-secondary coursework in communications, marketing, media, or other closely related field.AND• A valid driver's licensePreferred Qualifications: • Experience in a communications environment – public relations, outreach, media, and graphic design• Experience with desktop publishing using GIS and Adobe Creative suites• Experience shooting and editing simple videos and photos• Experience with desktop publishing using Adobe Creative suites• Experience with science, nature and environmental content • Ability to telework remotely with reliable high-speed internet access.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
These examples do not include all possible tasks in this work and do not limit the assignment of related tasks in any position of this classification. Due to COVID and other considerations, it is anticipated that this position will be a combination of regular in-office and remote teleworking hours as determined by the position's management-approved work schedule1. Assisting County staff in preparing a comprehensive package of Land Conservation Plan landowner outreach materials.2. Updating the Land Conservation Program website, including completion of a new Story Map.3. Assisting with the development of a standard Land Conservation PowerPoint presentation, including taking and curating photographs.4. Interviewing diverse landowners to compile individual profiles.5. Assisting in the development of a new landowner video and field trip series.6. Final Report: Develop a final internship report and presentation documenting experience gained and recommended Unit and Department process improvement ideas.7. Additional learning opportunities will occur through engagement with other County staff, including Communications, Environmental Resources, GIS, Parks, and Planning, as well as the Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District. Essential Functions: 1-6

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

• Knowledge of outreach and public relations techniques and strategies• Knowledge of natural resources and conservation • Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively work with internal staff and external partners,• Strong interpersonal skills and outgoing, with the ability to effectively interact with landowners and the general public• Editing and proofreading skills• Project management skills, including the ability to organize and schedule multiple work streams.• Fluency in modern office software programs (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, and Outlook) • Abilities to: be creativebuild and maintain relationships;demonstrate flexibility in work assignments;follow and develop processes;manage a project;motivate others;take the initiative in work assignments, organize them and complete them;work both independently and with others;work with individuals from a variety of backgrounds;work with large data sets and organize information.WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is performed in County office buildings, outdoors and remotely. Driving is required. Employee will be frequently required to work in outside weather conditions, being exposed to cold and hot temperatures, precipitation, direct sunlight, wind, dust, and pollen. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Lifting requirement (up to 50 pounds) on an occasional basis. Types of equipment used include telephone, computer, printer, conventional and digital cameras, and GPS devices. Dakota County welcomes and is inclusive of diverse people, backgrounds and perspectives. The County aims to reflect the community and clients it serves and foster an equitable and respectful working environment where everyone is empowered to be their authentic selves.Dakota County Employee Relationswww.co.dakota.mn.usMain Number 651.438.4435(contact 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday)