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Communications Supervisor

Minnesota Department of Public Safety
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The person in this position directs, supervises and coordinates a team of Department of Public Safety (DPS) communications specialists who serve as education and information liaisons, as well as communication and marketing experts for multiple DPS operational and support divisions.

This position supervises public information officers and communications specialists who work in the DPS Office of Communications (OOC) and are focused on law enforcement and emergency services divisions such as the Minnesota State Patrol, State Fire Marshal division, Homeland Security and Emergency Management division and the Office of Traffic Safety. The team works on a daily basis to help protect DPS’ image and ensure communications and marketing work furthers the mission, vision and strategy of DPS.

The position also supports the deputy communications director and communications director in overseeing the work related to media relations, public relations and other communications functions and activities. 

The supervisor helps oversee strategic and crisis communications strategies and tactics, while providing leadership, supervision and direction to the team. The position exists to ensure that communications maintain the agency's reputation and help DPS achieve its goals by researching and recommending strategies and tactics that will enhance and further the agency's and office's goals, mission and objectives. Occasionally, the supervisor will help produce content and plans as necessary to support the OOC.

By doing these things, the supervisor and their team are responsible for messaging that will affect the reputation of the agency and the state on a statewide, national and international level.
 

**Employees may telework up to 50% or more, depending on the position and the needs of the division." 

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.

Qualifications

 

Minimum Qualifications

Four (4) years of professional communications experience that includes:


• Experience leading or supervising communications in a fast-paced environment. 
• Experience developing and implementing strategic communications, media relations or public information campaigns. 
• Ability to guide crisis communications, including high-profile or sensitive public messaging situations. 
• Experience working with media outlets, drafting press materials and maintaining positive relationships with key stakeholders. 
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines and adapt to changing priorities.
• Exceptional writing, editing and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds. 
• Ability to work cooperatively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and underserved communities 

A bachelor's degree in journalism, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or other related fields may substitute for one year of experience
 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in government, public safety or law enforcement environments. 
• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing or another related field.
• Knowledge of AP style writing and editing.
• Teamwork, team building and leadership skills sufficient to build positive, professional working relationships with all levels of an organization and with public- and private- sector partners.
 

Physical Requirements

Requires occasionally moving and transporting such articles as file boxes and heavy hand tools or heavier materials with help from others and moving and transporting light objects frequently. Even though the weights being moved and transported may be a negligible amount, a job in this category may require positioning self to move to a significant degree or may involve maintaining a stationary position for extended periods

Additional Requirements

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

  • Criminal history
  • Reference check

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.

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 Affirmative Action Division at ADA.accommodations.DPS@state.mn.us.