Sample Cover Letters For Jobs in Hermantown, MN (NOW HIRING)

Briefly, but specifically, summarize the primary purpose of the work performed. This should include a description of the role, its purpose, the key competencies required for success, the primary function of the position and how it supports NRRIs goals. Keep it concise and high level.
The person in this position will do field work and lab work on 4 sponsored projects. Competencies are ability to program in R and in EpiCollect, able to work independently deploying field equipment, ability to drive snowmobile and ATV, and ability to process bat calls with Kaleidoscope and Sonobat programs. 
The primary function is to keep my part of the Wildlife lab functioning, and it supports NRRI's goals by allowing me to meet deliverables on 4 sponsored projects. 
Location and Work Environment:
In person with some remote work possible. 
Work Schedule:
Typical schedule will be fine. 
Job Duties:

• (20% time) Deploy acoustic detectors for bats and camera boxes for small mammals. 
• (20% time) Plan/manage deployments and sample processing schedules for students. 
• (20% time) Process acoustic detector calls in Kaleidoscope Pro and Sonobat
• (20% time) Data analysis and processing in R 
• (20% time) Manage programming and data collection programs in Epicollect 

Physical / Environmental Demands:
Office environment / no specific or unusual physical or environmental demands.

• Able to work in cold and wet conditions throughout the year.
• Able to carry 30 pound camera boxes for field deployment.

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS degree plus at least two years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and relevant experience to equal at least six years.
• Valid driver's license
• Experience processing acoustic calls with Kaleidoscope Pro and Sonoba
• Experience with R
• Experience with programming Epicollect

Preferred Qualifications:

• B.S. from accredited university with GPA > 3.50
• Experience deploying and retrieving acoustic detectors for bats 
• Experience deploying and retrieving camera boxes
• Able to use MS Office applications.
• Work on a project doing fieldwork/research conducted in northeastern Minnesota. 

The Natural Resources Research Institute was established by the Minnesota legislature in 1983 as an applied science and engineering research organization to inform state citizens and decision-makers while leveraging the power of the University of Minnesota. NRRI is guided by the forward-looking charter provided by the Legislature to foster the economic development of Minnesotas natural resources in an environmentally sound manner to promote private sector employment.
NRRIs mission is to deliver integrated research solutions that value our resources, environment and economy for a sustainable and resilient future. We are a mission-driven, project-focused team working to create opportunities for natural resource stewardship.

Pay Range: $22.38-$23.50/hr; depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications.  Learn more about retirement plans.

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. You are required to attach a cover letter and resume to be considered for this position.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university.  A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.