Job Description
Working Title: Communications Specialist Job Class: Communications Specialist 3 Agency: Pollution Control Agency - Job ID : 86462
- Location : Various
- Telework Eligible : Yes
- Full/Part Time : Full-Time
- Regular/Temporary : Unlimited
- Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers
- Date Posted : 05/23/2025
- Closing Date : 06/12/2025
- Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Pollution Control Agency / Pollution Control-MAPE
- Division/Unit : Operations Division / Communication Unit 1
- Work Shift/Work Hours : Day Shift
- Days of Work : Monday - Friday
- Travel Required : No
- Salary Range: $31.92 - $47.05 / hourly; $66,648 - $98,240 / annually
- Classified Status : Classified
- Bargaining Unit/Union : 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
- FLSA Status : Nonexempt
- Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : Yes
* This position will be located at either the MPCA Detroit Lakes or Brainerd office
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 sometimes contentious communications projects in the northwest and north central regions of the state with some work that impacts statewide. This individual develops strategic communications plans for specific divisions, working 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. Activities range from developing messages and crafting communication materials to preparing speakers, organizing events targeting various audiences, and evaluating the impact of communication tactics. They will manage project timelines, lead teams of communications colleagues, and maintain positive relationships with internal and external audiences. This position leads communications efforts for the Remediation Division and agency compliance and enforcement communications with direction from immediate supervisor, assistant director of communications and director of communications. In addition, the communication specialist 3 is one of the communications staff members who participates in emergency response communications, including developing risk and crisis communication strategies in situations that are sometimes high-profile, time-sensitive, or volatile.
Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Candidates must clearly demonstrate the following qualifications:
Three (3) years of professional experience in strategic communications, 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, political science, or related field.
General knowledge of or experience with remediation work in the environment.
Familiarity with regulatory or permitting processes for mining.
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.
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
[email protected] . For additional information about the application process, go to .
Contact If you have questions about this position, contact Patty Atchison at
[email protected] 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 Patty Atchison at
[email protected] .
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.
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
- Tuition reimbursement
- 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
[email protected] and let us know the support you need.
Job Tags
Hourly pay, Holiday work, Full time, Temporary work, Part time, Local area, Immediate start, Remote job, Work visa, Flexible hours, Shift work, Day shift, Monday to Friday,