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Seeds Student Worker Program

2019 Seeds and Phoenix Student Workers

2024 Seeds Students and Graduates

MnDOT's Seeds Program provides paid, college-level student worker positions to highly motivated students. The program is designed to equip and train qualified participants for potential full-time employment with the agency upon graduation. Students work with MnDOT professionals on a variety of projects to gain real-world experience and grow their network in their chosen field.

 Program highlights:

  • Performance reviews every six months
  • Supportive supervisors who help you meet your career goals
  • Biannual workshops to develop skills and network with other students and MnDOT professionals
  • Students may be eligible for paid time off and have access to State-administered benefits* such as medical, dental, vision, disability, retirement, and more

* Benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, and other factors

All students who meet the program’s academic and employment requirements are encouraged to apply for the Seeds Student Worker Program. While the program has a strong commitment to fostering a workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve—including but not limited to students from minority backgrounds, recently separated veterans, students with disabilities, women in STEM or non‑traditional fields, and economically disadvantaged students—we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you are interested in contributing to our mission and growing your professional skills, we invite you to apply.

Download the Seeds Student Worker Program flyer

To be eligible for the Seeds Student Worker Program, students must be:

  • Enrolled at a college, university, technical or trade school and taking a minimum of six semester credits or nine quarter credits
  • Have at least 12 months left of school before graduation
  • Pursuing of a major related to MnDOT’s business needs
  • A minimum GPA of 2.5 (3.0 for engineering majors)
  • Legally eligible to work in the United States

All students who meet the program’s academic and employment requirements are encouraged to apply for the Seeds Student Worker Program. MnDOT is committed to building a workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve and encourages applicants from historically underrepresented and disadvantaged groups. All qualified students will receive consideration.

Seeds students must pursue a major related to MnDOT’s business needs. Examples include:

  • Accounting/Finance
  • Architecture/Architectural Drafting
  • Business Management
  • Chemistry/Materials Science/Physics
  • Civil Engineering
  • Construction Management
  • Environmental Studies/Science
  • Geography/GIS
  • Human Resources
  • Land Surveying
  • Law/Paralegal
  • Office Management
  • Planning/Urban Studies
  • Public Administration
  • Public Relations/Communications/Marketing

Seeds students are hired as either a Student Worker Paraprofessional or a Student Worker Paraprofessional Sr., depending on their level of education and experience. As of July 1, 2025:

  • Student Worker Paraprofessional pay rate is $17.84 - $20.89 per hour
  • Student Worker Paraprofessional Sr. pay rate is $19.85 - $23.61 per hour

Seeds is a year-round student worker program. Students typically work up to 40 hours per week throughout the summer, and 15-20 hours per week during the school year. Work hours during the school year can be flexible depending on the student's schedule and the hiring office’s workload. Seeds students may be able to work up to full-time hours during winter and spring break.

The Seeds Student Worker Program hires students for positions across Minnesota throughout the year. See what Seeds Student Worker positions are currently available. College students who meet the program’s eligibility requirements may apply at any time, regardless of whether there is a current vacancy in their field of study. The Seeds program keeps applications on file for up to one year. Program staff will contact the student if a vacancy opens at a later date.

Qualified Seeds students may apply to the MnROW program, the Graduate Engineer & Land Surveyor Program, or a permanent position after graduation. Seeds students may be able to remain in the program if they are pursuing a higher degree immediately after earning their associate’s or bachelor’s degree.

How to apply

The Seeds Student Worker Program accepts applications year-round. All interested students must apply through the State of Minnesota Careers website.

How to apply @ mn.gov/careers

  • Select search open positions
  • Enter the keyword 87192 in the search box
  • Select the job title
  • Select the apply button
  • Sign in or select "Register Now" to create an account

The system will guide you through the rest of the application process.