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Communications Specialist 2

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
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Communications Specialist 2
Agency: MN Department of Natural Resources

  • Job ID: 87131
  • Location: St. Paul
  • Telework Eligible: Yes, hybrid up to 50%
  • Full/Part Time: Full-Time
  • Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
  • Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
  • Date Posted: 7/11/2025
  • Closing Date: 7/31/2025
  • Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Department of Natural Resources
  • Division/Unit: Ecological and Water Resources
  • Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift
  • Days of Work: Monday - Friday
  • Travel Required: No
  • Salary Range: $28.82 - $42.31 / hourly; $60,176 - $88,343 / annually
  • Classified Status: Classified
  • Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Association of Professional Employees/MAPE
  • FLSA Status: Nonexempt
  • Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

Job Summary

 

The Department of Natural Resources is currently seeking a Communications Specialist 2 to provide statewide program leadership for the Minnesota Biological Survey (MBS) in the interpretation and display of biodiversity data and information for use in conservation and management decisions and prioritization throughout the state.

It includes the creation of original nature-themed illustration, design, and cartography, complex project management, and ongoing coordination among programs, Divisions, and the Department. The position provides and oversees the production of original content directly to DNR website and social media platforms, publications, reports, promotions, and cartographic projects. Resulting materials and services are delivered and promoted to internal and external clientele and the public throughout the state.

This position creates and coordinates the production of accurate and engaging communications that are consistent with program and DNR policies, branding, and strategic priorities. It works with field data, consults with program scientists and other specialists, visit field sites, and review related scientific information to develop thorough and accurate content. They create distinct, engaging works that are available to resource managers and the public. Work includes the creation of original graphic art and design and cartographic displays for MBS published works and coordinating with publishers. 

The position manages the MBS webspace and components of the Ecosystem Management and Protection (EMP) Section and Division biodiversity webspace and develops and coordinates MBS content on Department social media platforms. The position provides technical guidance and subject matter expertise in the Agency for graphic arts and design, technical writing, science-based communications, production processes, web and social media content development and delivery, and associated policy and statutes (e.g., ADA, plain language, accessibility). 

This position may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete an annual telework agreement.
 

Qualifications

 

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in fine arts, graphic arts, illustration, communications, writing, English, or related field.
  • Two years professional experience creating and managing web and social media content, desktop publishing, and html coding; AND developing and delivering original graphic and written communications on nature and ecology for a program, organization, or equivalent.
  • Professional experience developing and implementing a communications plan for a nature or ecology program, organization, or equivalent. 
  • Advanced skills in graphic design software packages and programs (e.g., Adobe Dreamweaver, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Microsoft Office Suite) sufficient to render accurate and compelling visualizations for print and dynamic web environments.
  • Two years professional experience with geographic information system software (e.g., ArcMap, ArcPro) for map layout and design. 
  • Two years professional experience editing and proofing the writing and graphic design work of colleagues.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Minnesota’s native plants, animals, and ecosystems sufficient to effectively communicate with staff biologists/ecologists and render scientifically accurate and precise products.
  • Ability to work with diverse interests to communicate and collaborate effectively on projects. 
  • Ability to manage a large and diverse project portfolio sufficient to maintain, organize, communicate, and deliver work priorities within budgetary and time constraints. 
  • Professional experience with Accessibility requirements (e.g., Federal Law Section 508), including remediation of Program communications to comply with Federal and State digital accessibility mandates.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Five years professional experience developing and delivering original graphic and written communications on nature and ecology.
  • Five years professional experience creating and managing web and social media content, desktop publishing, and html coding.
  • Demonstrated examples (more than one) of your original nature artworks used in professional publications, government or organization reports, or equivalent. 
  • Demonstrated examples (more than one) of your original nature written works, or written works for which you were the primary or lead editor, being used in professional publications, government or organization reports, or equivalent. 
  • Demonstrated examples (more than one) of your original cartographic or map design works used in professional publications, government or organization reports, or equivalent. 

Additional Requirements

Applicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

It is policy of the Department of Natural Resources that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:

  • Conflict of Interest Review
  • Criminal History Check
  • Education Verification
  • Employment Reference / Records Check
  • License / Certification Verification

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 Bruce Carlson at bruce.carlson@state.mn.us or 651-259-5083.

If you are an individual with a disability and need reasonable accommodation to assist with the application process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at ADA.DNR@state.mn.us.

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 Lucas Schulze at lucas.schulze@state.mn.us.

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.