Communications Specialist - Job ID 81738

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 Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s (MPCA) communications specialist leads high-profile and contentious communications projects in the Rochester region and statewide. This individual manages strategic communications for specific divisions and topic areas including PFAS, water quality, air quality, and permitting among other topics. They will work directly with division leadership and program leads to develop and execute communications plans and proactive media strategies, including media and outreach events with key stakeholder groups, to support MPCA initiatives and engagement opportunities. The incumbent will organize community meetings and lead issue management for their assigned areas, which includes activities ranging from developing messages and crafting communication materials to preparing speakers, organizing events targeting various audiences, and evaluating the impact of communication tactics. The position manages project timelines, leads teams of communications colleagues, and maintains positive relationships with internal and external audiences. 

Minimum Qualifications

Candidates must clearly demonstrate the following qualifications:

Three (3) years of professional experience in strategic communications and marketing, including media relations.

Demonstrated experience developing and executing communications plans, including crafting messages, identifying target audiences, developing content strategies, and writing for a variety of platforms.

Strong media relations skills with demonstrated success in crafting proactive messaging and materials, developing and maintaining effective relationships with members of the media, and coordinating media events.

Excellent written and verbal communication and facilitation skills in order to distill complex topics into clear and concise analyses for general audiences.

Accomplished planning and organizational skills to independently and effectively manage multiple projects at times in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Human relations and communication skills sufficient to collaborate, work effectively, and create understanding within with a wide range of clientele, partners, and interested parties.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will not sponsor applicants for work visas. 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.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree; journalism, communications/marketing, political science, or related field.

General knowledge of or experience with environmental issues including air, water, and land.

Familiarity with regulatory and permitting processes.

Creative problem solving, and leadership skills.

Demonstrated ability to effectively and confidently persuade, present, and champion recommendations and objectives.

Proficiency in understanding and using Associated Press style. 

Additional Requirements

Position duties may require travel but driving is not a minimum qualification or essential function of this position. Employees who may drive for state business will need their driver’s license checked prior to operating a state vehicle. 

About Pollution Control Agency 

Our mission is to protect and improve the environment and human health. We work with many partners (citizens, communities, and businesses, all levels of government, environmental groups and educators) to prevent pollution, conserve resources, and to help ensure polluting does not have disproportionate impact on any groups of people. We emphasize work-life balance with flex schedules, compressed schedules, and options to telework for some positions.