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Communications Specialist

This position determines priorities and objectives for the management of day-to-day media relations, crisis communications and communications issues for the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS), specifically our Homeland Security and Emergency Management and Emergency Communication Networks divisions.

As a strategic communications expert, this role involves developing messages, providing information on public safety issues and services to the public, and interacting with state, national, and international media on sensitive or life-or-death issues. The position also serves as a senior communications advisor to assigned divisions and programs, and to DPS as a whole when needed.

The position will be responsible for crisis communications as well as creating, executing and maintaining media and communications strategies and tactics for DPS. The position exists to ensure that media and communications strategies enhance the reputation of assigned divisions and programs, mitigate the impact of critical issues, and informs the public of critical information from assigned divisions.

The position determines priorities and objectives and manages strategic oversight and direction for assigned divisions and programs to promote, support and enhance the image, goals, mission and vision of DPS. This position also will plan and implement complex communication plans ensuring efforts are effective and reach almost every Minnesotan.

The position is responsible for managing media and communications strategies and recommending the use of social media and digital platforms to maximize the reach of assigned divisions and programs messaging.

The Department of Public Safety is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DPS does not participate in E-Verify.

**Hybrid Eligible: ** Employees may telework up to 50% or more, depending on the position and the needs of the division. Employees who live 50 miles or more from their permanent work location may be allowed to telework more than 50% with approval from the division director.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

**To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month, day and year for each job held. **

Three years of professional experience in strategic communication planning and crisis communications
Strong writing skills and an understanding of accepted journalistic and AP style.
Knowledge of media relations, or experience working as a member of the media.
Strong research skills and ability to translate complicated topics or research into easy-to-understand and engaging content
An understanding of traditional and social media including both earned and paid media
Ability to work cooperatively with individuals from diverse backgrounds

*A bachelor’s degree in communications, Journalism, English or another related field may substitute for 1 year of experience.

Preferred Qualifications

A Bachelor’s degree.
Experience recommending or implementing communications plans.
Knowledge of photography, videography and graphics.
Knowledge of the National Incident Management System and incident command structure.
Experience providing training or instruction to others

Physical Requirements

Requires occasionally moving and transporting such articles as file folders and small tools. May need to maintain a stationary position for long periods of time while carrying out job duties.

Additional Requirements

This position requires successful completion of the following:

It is the policy of the Department of Public Safety that all employees submit to a background investigation prior to employment, includes the following components:

Criminal History
Reference Check

Application Details

How to Apply

Select “Apply for Job” at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us. For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers.

Contact

If you have questions about this position, contact Bryan Beyl at bryan.beyl@state.mn.us or 651-201-7935.

To receive consideration as a Connect 700 Program applicant, apply online, email the Job ID#, the Working Title and your valid Proof of Eligibility Certificate by the closing date to Bryan Beyl at bryan.beyl@state.mn.us.

About Public Safety Dept

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a diverse, complex agency dedicated to serving communities across the state. DPS has 10 public facing and four support divisions with about 2,400 dedicated employees operating programs statewide that all have one goal: Building a safer Minnesota.

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

A sense of purpose in their work
Connection with their coworkers and communities
Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include:

Paid vacation and sick leave
12 paid holidays each year
Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
- Fertility care, including IVF
- Diabetes care
- Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

Training, classes, and professional development
Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.

For accommodations or questions about accessibility specifically relating to this job announcement, please email the Internal Affairs/Affirmative Action Division at marna.johnson@state.mn.us or 651-539-1875.