Communications Specialist - Communications Specialist at Minnesota Pollution Control Agency M

Communications Specialist - Communications Specialist 3

Job Class: Communications Specialist 3

Agency: Pollution Control Agency

Job : 86462

Location: Various

Telework Eligible: Yes

Full/Part Time: Full-Time

Regular/Temporary: Unlimited

Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers

Posting Dates: 05/23/2025 – 06/12/2025

Shift: Day shift, Monday – Friday

Travel Required: No

Salary: $31.92 – $47.05 per hour; $66,648 – $98,240 per year

Classified Status: Classified

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.

• Three (3) years of professional experience in strategic communications, including media relations.
• 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 successful proactive messaging and media event coordination.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and facilitation skills to distill complex topics into clear analyses for general audiences.
• Accomplished planning and organizational skills to independently manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Human relations and communication skills to collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Must verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States.

• Bachelor's degree in 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.
• Effective and confident persuasion, presentation, and championing of recommendations and objectives.
• Proficiency in Associated Press style.

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.

• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• 12 paid holidays each year.
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans, including fertility care, diabetes care, and dental/orthodontic care for adults and children.
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children.
• Pension plan providing income after at least three years of service.
• Employer-paid life insurance.
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care.
• Resources supporting physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being.

• Training, classes, and professional development.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (eligible positions).

• Voluntary confidential program for employees and families regarding mental health, relationships, grief, finances, legal issues.
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care.

Based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

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 encourage persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+…