Office of Justice Programs 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, specifically the Office of Justice Programs. 

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 role serves as the first point of contact with state, national, and international media, sometimes on sensitive or life-or-death issues. The position will be responsible for crisis communications as well as creating, executing and maintaining media and communications strategies and tactics for DPS.

As a strategic communications expert, this role involves developing messages and providing information on public safety issues and services to the public. 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 position also serves as a senior communications advisor to assigned divisions and programs, and to DPS as a whole when needed. 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. 

This position works closely with a communications supervisor, deputy communications director, communications director and division leadership and serves as their strategic communications advisor.

Telework Eligible: Yes - 3 days a week dependent on the business needs of the Office of Justice Programs (OJP)